Dt06 complete lores

Touring

painTing • WinTer ToUrs • ForesT Camping • BUYing aDviCe

DisCover

Caravan, moTorhome & Camping inspiraTion

£4.99 AUTUMN/ WINTer 2013

Stunning holiday ideas for your family ... get the most out of every day

Retro Touri ng 1 974

Freedom, Fun & Flares – 40 years on

Making the right choice Top Tip: Try before you buy

Ski, walk, cycle A van for all reasons

E V I S U EXCL the very beSt modelS Unveiled for 2014

UK £4.99 €5.90 US $10.99 Canada $11.99 aUStralia $10.99 nZZ $11.99

Plus

• Service & repair advice • Why now is the best time to buy • Lightweight touring • Autumn camping

7389 - AT Auto-Trail Advert 2014 V1 DISC TOUR_Layout 1 03/09/2013 19:41 Page 1

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7389 - AT Tribute 720 Special Edition v1 DISC TOUR_Layout 1 03/09/2013 19:50 Page 1

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For more information visit: www.tributemotorhomes.co.uk Tribute Motorhomes Trigano House, Genesis Way, Europarc, Grimsby, North East Lincs DN37 9TU. T: +44 (0)1472 571000 E: sales@tributemotorhomes.co.uk

discover touring | contents

Contents touring uK 17 Place in Focus: Newquay 20 West W of England: Fly south for winter 23 Place in Focus: South Hams 26 Southern England: Southern softies 29 Isles of Scilly: How Scilly!

34 Midlands: Middle of the country, not middle of the road

52 Northern England: Northern highlights

71

60 Scotland: No place like home

122 Camping:

116 Germany: Eye to eye in Eifel 119 France: A warm welcome in Brittany

Activities

40 East of England: Water, water everywhere

32

44 Wales W and borders: Forgotten lands

48

51 Place in focus: North Wales

64

Painting:

The art of touring Cycling:

Wheely good Skiing:

Scotland on skis

12

Woodlands and the autumn season

66 Ireland: Magic Mourne

touring ABroAd

PLAnning

Walking:

Best foot forward

120 All about aires

PrActicAL 10

It’s showtime!

76

Lightweight touring

88

Winter touring

90

Buying a caravan

92 96

revieWs 56

Dethleffs’ Globebus Dethleff

58

Marquis’ Lifestyle 696

72

Innovations and Technology

Caravan movers

80

Auto-Sleeper

How caravans are made

82

Auto-Trail

100 Heating

84

Coachman’s Pastiche 520/4

102 Buying a family motorhome

118 Fendt

HistorY

106 Trade T secrets: What’s new for 2014

39

110 Service and repair 114 Buying a van conversion

T

Undecided?

Why not hire first?

Wh

Touring in ‘74 T

129 History: Caravans on the front line

Welcome

here’s something very special about the arrival of autumn and the onset of winter. glorious summer holidays may be a distant memory, but i love this time of year. For one, it gives the perfect excuse to snuggle up (whether that’s at home or in your ‘van) and do some armchair travelling, begin dreaming of next year’s adventures and places to go. Then there’s the excitement of new model announcements from the numerous British and continental caravan and motorhome manufacturers, with many on display for the first time at the Motorhome and caravan show in october – we’ve provided details and reviews of a good number of them within these pages.

But best of all, the cooler months provide the opportunity to get out and about to enjoy fabulous landscapes at a time when campsites are quieter. our pages are filled with practical advice for touring right

through winter, how more and more ‘vans are insulated to cope with the harshest of chilly temperatures so you can stay toasty warm inside, and how you can embrace outdoor activities using your ‘van. And who said you have to pack the tent away now? if you prefer to camp under canvas, we’ve got lots of ideas on how you can extend your camping season. With hundreds of campsites open all year round, there are no excuses to sit at home! so whether you are just contemplating your first ‘van purchase – go on, do it! – or seasoned tourers planning your next trip, welcome to this issue of Discover Touring.

Do tell us what you’re buying and where you’ve been, and we’ll see you again in February, when our spring/ summer issue is published.

Caroline Mills Autumn at Derwentwater. Credit: ©Visit Britain

CONFIDENCE AND CONTROL

THE CONFIDENCE TO DEAL WITH WHAT YOU CAN SEE,THE TECHNOLOGY TO CONTROL WHAT YOU CAN’T. The AL-KO ATC anti-snake system is proven to improve the stability of the towing outfit, providing Comeconfidence and see us and at stand 2060, Hall 20 to your experience theIfaward winning ATC you with the maximum control throughout journey. you are buying a new system, and book your Retro-fit today.

Retro-fitting your new ATC anti-snake caravan, AL-KO ATC is now offered by most of the leading caravan manufacturers. If you are couldn’tyour be easier. contactATC us tocan book yourbeRetro-fit at our Factory, looking to protect device and upgrade currentSimply investment, easily retrofitted through or on your own driveway by our approved mobile fitment agent, CMI. our UK network of Premium Fitment Centres or mobile fitting service.

Factory Retro-fit bookings and further information - 01926 818500 Mobile fitment bookings - 0800 389 4648 | www.al-koatc.co.uk QUALITY FOR LIFE

VENTURE CARAVANS Adria Caravans • Bailey Caravans & Motorhomes • Isabella Awnings

A New Dawn...

Introducing the breathtaking Venture Range 2014

Bailey Caravans & Motorhomes: Pursuit / Pegasus / Unicorn / Approach Autograph Motorhomes Venture have been a successful Bailey agent since 1992 offering our customers unrivalled choice and value. Whether you’re looking for a new or used caravan or motorhome our fully trained Bailey specialsts are on hand to help.

www.venture-caravans.com Image shows new Bailey Approach Autograph.

Award winning service: Venture are now established as one of the leading caravan dealers in the country with a wealth of knowledge & experience. We’re previous winners of Which Caravan Dealer Of The Year, Adria Dealer Of The Year 2008 - 2013 and Practical Caravan Dealer Of The Year Finalist 2012.

www.venture-caravans.com

So not only will you get a fantastic deal on your caravan, you’ll also have the peace of mind that your aftercare experience will be second to none.

Adria Caravans: Sportline / Altea / Adora / Astella Venture Caravans have enjoyed a relationship with Adria since 1979 when we recognised the quality and value the brand offered.

Since then Adria have come a long way in design and specification but importantly still offer superb value and build quality.

We also have our own special edition Adria - The Sportline is based on the ever popular Altea range. Offering 5 models, to suit families and couples alike, adding more specification and even better value for your money.

www.adria-caravans.com

THERMOBUILD

2014 Exclusive Ex xcl clu usi siv ve to

Our stunning 5 model range built exclusively for Venture.

Image shows new Adria Sportline DT.

Visit our 2 conveniently located branches: Venture Daventry Toll House, A5 Watling Street Watford Gap, Daventry Northants, NN6 7UJ

Call our Daventry Branch on:

01327 703371 Venture Hitchin The Rose Gardens Cambridge Road Hitchin, SG4 0JX

Call our Hitchin Branch on:

01462 452856

GREAT PRICES ON THE LATEST 2014 MODELS PRE-OWNED CARAVANS & MOTORHOMES FULLY STOCKED ACCESSORIES SHOPS PURPOSE BUILT WORKSHOPS FAMILY BUSINESS EST. 1971

discover touring | tHe teAm

Discover us All back issues are available as an App. so you will never miss out!

Advertising Office Discovery Media group, London T: +44 (0) 208 297 9073 e: mark@dmgpublishing.co.uk Editor: caroline Mills Design: satellite creative T: +44 (0)1442 827768 Publishers: Mark galbraith, mark@dmgpublishing.co.uk and Ben Lane, ben@dmgpublishing.co.uk

aDviCe • Touring BriTain • praCTiCal Cool ‘vans • laTesT gear DisCover Touring Issue 4 : autumn/ wInter 2013

Your first choice

, Bailey Caravans for Adria Caravans

es and Bailey Motorhom

Touring DisCover

n e & Camping inspiraTio Caravan, moTorhom 2013 £4.99 autumn/ winter

Buying your Insider views on making

the right choice

First timers and cs new romanti touring Falling in love with

es: niently located branch Visit our 2 conve MODELS

• Cycle Tours • Family Adventures & Keeps • Nordic Walking • Castles

THE LATEST 2013 GREAT PRICES ON CARAVANS N OF PRE-OWNED LARGE SELECTIO ACCESSORIES SHOPS FULLY STOCKED WORKSHOPS PURPOSE BUILT S EST. 1971 FAMILY BUSINES

t Fancy a nighas? er canv und to basics camping advice

of our team today requirements. your Contact a member hand to help with we’re always on

Back

The Rose Gardens Cambridge Road Hitchin, SG4 0JX

Watling Street Toll House, A5 Daventry Watford Gap, 7UJ Northants, NN6

Call our Daventry

s.com

venture-caravan

Branch on:

01327 703371

Call our new Hitchin

.com

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Branch on:

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Issue 1 Spring/ Summer 2011, Issue 2 Autumn/ Winter 2011, Issue 3 Spring/ Summer 2012, Issue 4 Autumn/Winter 2012, Issue 5 Spring/ Summer 2013.

8

Discover Touring

Editorial Office Discovery Media group Discovery House 63 Dundale road Tring Herts HP23 5BX T: +44 (0) 1296 631 273 e: discoverus@dmgpublishing.co.uk W: www.dmgpublishing.co.uk

and New friendsnces experie newChoosin g your perfect site

and settling in

over

£3,000

of holidays and prizes to be won

With thanks to our authors and reviewers (in order of appearance): Ben Lane Mark galbraith sam Bird Andrew Jenkinson John Piggot glenda rochead Martin spencer David Hooper sally Pepper ron Palmer neil Boulton clive White John Thynne caroline Mills gary Martin John Hartley Adrian Bates Angela cox

(Finally, big thanks to the many helpful regional tourist offices around the uK and abroad) To licence or distribute this product, please contact Mark galbraith at the Advertising office (London) at +44 (0) 208 297 9073 or email: mark@dmgpublishing.co.uk Front cover image: Mourne Mountains, Ireland.

Credit: ©Caroline Mills illustrations: Carmi Latham.

Discover Touring is published by Discovery Media group, united Kingdom. All rights in the material belong to Discovery Media group and may not be reproduced, whether in whole or in part, without their prior written consent.

Discover Touring – issn 2045-8088 The publisher makes every effort to ensure the magazine’s contents are correct. All material published in Discover Touring is copyright and unauthorised reproduction is forbidden. The editors and publishers of this publication give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised in this edition.

Back Issues Back issues of Discover Touring are available at £6.99 for one issue, £10.99 for two issues and £14.99 for three issues.

Please send your cheque made payable to Discovery Media group Holdings at Discovery Media group, 63 Dundale road, Tring, Herts, HP23 5BX.

Black or White – you decide!

The new Magic Edition Low Profile and A Class range is now available.

Trend setting design meets a modern interior. New lightweight construction meets unrivalled safety levels.

Class leading standard equipment meets an unbeatable price.

Your chance to meet the new Magic Edition models at NEC hall 9 stand 27. It’s there in “Black and White”.

Lowdham Leisureworld Lowdham Road - Gunthorpe Nottingham - NG14 7ES Phone: 0115 9663838 info@lowdhams.com www.lowdhams.com

Alan Kerr Ltd Patrick House - Blythe Way Paignton - Devon - TQ4 7QP Phone: 01803 522098 alankerr@aol.com www.alankerrltd.co.uk

3A’s Leisure Motorhome & Caravan Company Stephen’s Way - Pensarn Carmarthen - SA31 2BG Phone: 01267 234459 Lee@3asleisure.co.uk www.3acaravans.co.uk

Donaghey Motorhomes Drumnahoe – Letterkenny Co. Donegal Phone: 00353 (0) 749129235 info@irishmotorhomes.com www.donagheymotorhomes.ie

Premier Motorhomes & Leisure Ltd Main Road - Birdham - Chichester West Sussex - PO20 7BU Phone: 01243 511189 dbrown@premiermotorhomes.com www.premiermotorhomes.com

Pullingers Leisure Vehicles Ltd 11 First Avenue - Halstead Essex - CO9 2EX Phone: 01787 472747 pullingerssales@aol.com www.pullingers.co.uk

Cara Motor Homes Ballywilliam – Rathkeale Co. Limerick Phone: 00353 (0) 6964400 info@caramotorhomes.ie www.caramotorhomes.ie

Dethleffs GmbH & Co. KG · Phone: +49 75 62 / 98 78 81 www.dethleffs.co.uk · info@dethleffs.co.uk

PrACtICAL | SHoWtIMe

It’s Showtime

Motorhome and caravan exhibitions are exciting places, buzzing with activity. For first-time buyers, they can be daunting. Discover Touring provides a helping hand.

Y

ou’ve climbed the first step by making the decision that buying a caravan, motorhome or tent is the right thing to do. But what next? Visiting an exhibition, where all the main manufacturers and many of the large dealerships come together, is an ideal starting point. Large exhibitions, however, are bewildering places where you can become punch-drunk stepping in and out of hundreds of ‘vans. All too frequently conversations are heard where ‘van owners have, unwittingly, bought something inappropriate by either not being aware of the right models or not matching a ‘van to their needs, so it pays to do some homework before arriving at the show.

Do your homework!

First things first, decide what’s it to be – a caravan, motorhome or tent? Your lifestyle, budget and frequency of use may determine this. A once-a-year camping trip would suggest a tent will suffice, or if you feel that sleeping under canvas is ‘proper camping’.

Deciding between a caravan and motorhome is often more difficult. Budget wise, purchasing a caravan tends to be the 10

Discover Touring

cheaper option. That said, if you also need to purchase an accompanying tow car, there might not be much difference to the cost of a motorhome. If you like the idea of going from place to place, potentially further afield, and yearn for whatever is around the next corner, a motorhome will suit. If, though, you’d prefer to stick to one or two campsites during a trip and explore an area from there, the caravan may be your best bet.

The next step, if it wasn’t an initial deciding factor, is to plan a budget. Think too about additional post-purchase costs. Storage costs may be an issue and consider the length of ‘van if it’s to be kept on a driveway.

Motorhome purchases will require annual road tax and an MOT for ‘vans over three years old. If it’s a caravan you’re after, an awning might be necessary, and don’t forget the tow bar.

The end user

Once the fundamentals have been considered, it’s time to think about usage.

If you’ve owned a ‘van before and you’re returning to touring, consider why you sold originally and use the reasons to help

with this purchase. Next, think about the users. How many people will use the ‘van regularly and what are their ages? A more mature couple will require a different layout to families. Grandparents who babysit the grandchildren on occasion might need to look at ‘vans with more than two berths.

Do any of the regular users have a physical disability that needs to be considered? With these questions answered, you begin to get a fundamental idea as to the number of berths required – two, four or six-berth and so on.

This will help to narrow down your choices considerably! And is your preference for comfort (plenty of comfy lounge seating) over sleeping arrangements (fixed beds)?

Now think about the places you would like to visit and the kinds of campsites to stay on. If you’re only ever going to use your ‘van in the summer and stay on full-facility campsites with restaurants and washrooms close by, a full oven and a decent kitchen area is not likely to be necessary. Neither do you need to worry about how usable the shower area is. If, though, you love cooking and plan to prepare a winter stew, an oven, the number of rings on the hob and the u

PrACtICAL | SHoWtIMe

Main: exhibitions are exciting but they can be a daunting experience for first-timers.

Credit: ©NCC Events.

Top left: exhibitions can be bewildering if you’ve not done some homework first.

Credit: ©NCC Events.

Top right: Talk to sales reps about your requirements; they can help with alternative models. Credit: ©NCC Events.

Bottom left: Make the most of show offers, but consider whether they really are all that great for your needs. Credit: ©NCC Events Bottom right: Head to the Buyers’ Lounge to celebrate your purchase! Credit: ©NCC Events.

amount of food preparation space becomes essential. Likewise, when staying in basic campsites, the shower and washroom is more critical – as is the amount of water storage on board.

If you plan to use the ‘van for a specific activity, you may need to consider garage space for equipment; if you plan to spend every day on the beach – an outside shower could be handy; if your idea of heaven is watching TV, its location will make a difference. When buying a ‘van for longterm use, something with plenty of space might be critical, while a smaller day ‘van would suffice for the odd weekend. Full winterisation might be a consideration if you plan to use your ‘van regularly in cold climates. When opting for a motorhome, the base vehicle may be an important factor for you too.

From all your deliberations, now draw up two lists – a ‘must have’ and a ‘would like’.

The ‘must have’ will allow you to eliminate the vast majority of ‘vans. The ‘would like’ will help you to pick your final ‘van from a shortlist of three or four.

It’s Showtime

Armed with your two lists, mark up a copy of the show guide when you arrive at the exhibition; it’s likely to list all the manufacturers that are exhibiting so you can plan which stands to visit – most of the shows tend to separate the caravan, motorhome and tent areas. Ignore all the ‘vans or tents except those that fit your brief.

Remember that each manufacturer will only have a selection of the many models available. So if there is something that nearly fits your brief, but not quite, it’s time to start talking to the sales reps; they may be able to recommend a model not at the show.

Look at the technical specifications of each ‘van. Payload (MTPLM) – or how much additional weight you can carry - could be more important than the colour of the upholstery. And don’t forget to crawl under the ‘van – is the waste-water drain in a suitable position or too low-slung? – or lie on the beds!

There will be plenty of tempting show offers – “Buy at the show and you’ll get all these extras,” for example. Think carefully about offers, as they may be unnecessary.

Do you really need an awning if you’re never likely to use it? Are cab carpets essential if you’re walking through muddy fields? Is a TV aerial critical if you’re never likely to watch TV? You may be better to haggle over the list price rather than accept a load of extras you’re not likely to use.

The chosen one

Once you’ve narrowed down your decision to a couple of ‘vans or even ‘the one’, it’s time to remove yourself from the exhibition area for a period of time, even if a pushy sales rep says that you’ll lose the opportunity to purchase unless you commit right now.

There will always be another ‘van! The buzz of an exhibition hall can be electric and the excitement can run away with eager purchasers. Take yourself off for some fresh

air, give yourself a few minutes breathing space and question that you’ve found the right ‘van. You might decide to go for a show offer – and there can be some very good show deals worth haggling over, or you may decide to check over prices at various dealers.

If you do wish to purchase on the day, many of the manufacturers will have quiet sales rooms – and there is often a ‘Buyer’s Lounge’ – where you can discuss the sale without the hustle and bustle of the show floor.

T

 Want More?

There are lots of ‘van test reviews and previews of 2014 models running throughout this issue.

 Discover More: The two national shows: The spring caravan & camping show – held every February at the nec, Birmingham; www.springcaravanandcampingshow.co.uk.

The Motorhome & caravan show – held every october at the nec, Birmingham; www.motorhomeandcaravanshow.co.uk. other regional shows take place regularly throughout the year at Peterborough, Malvern showground, stratford-upon-Avon, York, newbury and exeter plus many more.

Discover Touring

11

PLANNING | try before you buy

Undecided?

Why not hire first?

Author: Ben Lane

You’ve done your research and you ’re ready to go, but you may need a little more convincing that the lifestyle is right, so why not try before you buy? Discover Touring spoke to a number of hire companies.

M

any companies operate a hire service; £300 per week is a benchmark figure.

If you go for it, pick a model that has a layout that suits your need, and for the event you are attending. Is it a family holiday?

A festival? Time away by yourself?

Some hire companies will be happy to sell you the van you hire if the urge to continue is just too strong. Read what a selection of hire companies have to say… and go out and do something less boring instead…

Bongoagogo: www.bongoagogo.co.uk I bought a Mazda Bongo and became convinced everyone should have one. I researched the domestic tourism market and determined there was an established VW campervan hire market but a very limited Mazda Bongo one. Given the reliability and great conversions on offer I am on a mission to get them as well-known and as loved as V’Dubs! My hire vans are 18 years old and as reliable as the day they were first driven in Japan!

This year we have been busy from mid June to mid-August. I’m working on making the campervan an almost year round holiday option given that heating can be provided in the vans and proper beds make for cosy nights. Also my campervans can go around Europe, so if sun is still on your mind then you can get yourself off down there and start relaxing.

Roughly 20% of my customers have been specific Mazda Bongo try-before-buy hires. The rest have been fairly evenly split between festival hire and new/returning tourers. My blog demonstrates how useful a campervan can be for all sorts of occasions such as motorsport and walking events and even hiring one to be near London for the Last Night of the Proms!

12

Discover Touring

The people who hire are typically professionals. Ages range from 31-58 although the most common age is early to mid-forties. I don’t sell my hire vehicles to customers, however I have negotiated a deal with Freespirit Autos in Chichester (a Bongo specialist). The deal is 50% off the basic hire price will be deducted from the purchase price of one of their Bongos.

Landcruiser: www.landcruise.uk.com My partner’s children loved camping and we went on frequent holidays in a tent. I loved the experience, but was always cold.

Four years ago I tried to hire a motorhome and couldn’t find one. We now have a fleet of lovely warm motorhomes, but no time to go away. We hire two to six berth new motorhomes from Chausson and Dethleffs.

Our smallest motorhome is six metres long.

Our largest is 8.5 metres.

We are generally fully booked from Easter to October half term. The busiest months for the workshop staff are June and September when customers wish to collect and return their motorhomes all on the same day for a festival or event. August is much easier as many of the motorhomes go off for long two to four week holidays.

People hire for a whole host of reasons; festivals, events and holidays in the UK and Europe. Weddings and parties are the most common reasons, but we also have had people go house hunting. Sales & marketing teams have used motorhomes to do a UK tour promoting products or to visit customers. Film crews have hired one for accommodation whilst on a shoot.

Photographers and travel writers have taken a motorhome trip to get material for their books. My preference is wine tasting around the vineyards of France!

There is not a typical customer who hires from us. We see a wide range of age groups – some with very little money and those with a lot. We have a wide range of different motorhomes to suit every pocket.

The majority of people will plan their trips very carefully, knowing exactly what they are going to do, see and where they are going to stay. A few would prefer to see where the road takes them. I prefer a little bit of both.

The most unusual request came from a person who wanted to take their polecat away in one of our dog friendly motorhomes. In the end we said no as they wanted to tape up all the ventilation grills in case the polecat escaped. We focus on hiring motorhomes and only sell our ex-fleet motorhomes. u The Mazda Bongo is a reliable van and will certainly turn a few heads when out on tour.

Available to hire all year round – the Landcruiser fleet is made up of models from Chausson and Dethleffs.

Discover Touring

13

PLANNING | try before you buy Get your hands on a the new VW T5 and just see the envy in the eyes of other road users – cool touring indeed.

Get out in the new Bailey motorhome and test out the level of comfort that has made this company famous in recent years.

An impressive line up of Hymer’s are available to hire from Hire A Hymer – who else?

Middlesex Motorcaravans:

www.middlesexmotorcaravans.co.uk We have been converting vans into campervans for over 25 years and have been at our current premises for over 15 years.

A natural progression for our business was to branch out into hiring. As we build the vans, we stock all the components for a conversion so we are able to ensure that all aspects of the hire vans are fully functional at all times. We hire the new Volkswagen T5 Facelift GP vans. Our busiest times of the year are March to September and particularly school holidays.

We offer a try before you buy scheme whereby if a customer hires a van for a weekend and then commits to purchase a campervan within four weeks of the hire date, the cost of hire will be deducted from the price of the vehicle. We also have customers who attend festivals like Glastonbury and ‘V’ and also family touring holidays. We had a customer who hired a campervan to act as the back up vehicle for a cycling tour.

Many different types of people hire campervans. We have retired couples, single people and families. Typical plans are holidays, touring and try before you buy.

Customers do ask about heating - which we have in our vans. We fit diesel heating, which is efficient and economical. This allows us to have extended hire periods with customers regularly using our vans in early spring and autumn. Winter touring is also possible knowing that chilly mornings and damp evenings are a thing of the past.

14

Discover Touring

Not only do we offer a try before you buy scheme, we also like to keep our fleet young and fresh. Therefore, we sell our hire vans on a regular basis before they are too old or have high mileage. In fact, one of our 2012 models was sold to a hire customer this year.

Amber Leisure: www.amberleisure.com We spotted an opportunity in 2009 when the market for buying new motorhomes plummeted and decided to register six motorhomes for hire to get a return on the considerable investment. We hire a range of coachbuilt motorhomes from two to six berth as well as van conversion campervans all of which are less than three years old.

Our busiest time is from the start of May to the end of September.

We hire to a wide range of people who tour the UK and Europe from single professionals to retired/semi retired couples and families, to groups of friends.

We have customers from all over the world and those from abroad generally tour the historic parts of the UK or visit family.

Some of the more unusual requests: “Does the motorhome have a washing machine?” and “can we have someone to drive us around?”

We typically remove the motorhomes from the fleet after two years and retail these on a rolling basis.

Hire a Hymer: www.hireahymer.com My brother Pete and I live in Northampton – the furthest place from the sea in England.

If you don’t get out, you can go mad! So we both got motorhomes. Pete and I were going to open a restaurant and Pete put his motorhome up for rent (as he wasn’t going to be using it) and lots of people called asking to hire it and that’s how our business started. The majority of our vans are the classic A-class Mercedes based Hymers.

We do have a couple of modern motorhomes and will add more to the fleet this year.

Our busiest times of the year are the British GP, Glastonbury, Download Festival and school holidays. We get lots of over 50s in the out-of-season months when the kids are back at school. We are looking at putting together a Winter Sports package based around the French Alps, which we think will be very popular.

Festivals are now very popular with older people as they don’t want to camp in a tent.

Many people are getting fed up with sitting on a beach and want to explore the UK and Europe and a motorhome is an economical and flexible way of doing it. Following a sporting event is becoming ever more popular. We rented a lot of motorhomes for the Tour de France, Le Mans and Goodwood this year.

There is a wide cross spectrum of people who hire from us, from families to couples.

One guy wanted to hire in order for his wife to give birth in it on top of a welsh mountain. We declined in this instance.

Customers can purchase our ‘vans and we can assist them in the purchase of someone else’s motorhome as well.

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.. Flex ibility. . m

Weekend rates from only

www.bongoagogo.co.uk Tel: 01273 757581 Email: nicky@bongoagogo.co.uk

*50% of the basic hire cost will be refunded against a purchase of a Bongo from www.freespiritautos.co.uk

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The 2014 GB Privilege Escorted Motorhome Tours brochure is packed full of interest. From 6-day short breaks to 58-day extended adventures, our tours will take you to the UK, Europe and beyond in the company of like-minded people and with the support of experienced Tour Directors. The brochure includes some fabulous brand new tours as well as several trips featuring special events like the D-Day Landings 70th Anniversary ceremony at Sword Beach and the spectacular 5-yearly Estonian Song Festival. To get your copy visit www.gbprivilege.com, email info@gbprivilege.com or pick one up from our stand at the NEC show this autumn or in spring 2014.

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Discover Touring

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Discover Touring

PLACe IN foCuS | NeWQuAy

Free your spirit in Newquay Author: Mark Galbraith

newquay has long been known as the uK’s surfing capital. But it’s not just for wave-hungry surf dudes...

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ravel a mile or two out of the town and off the main beaches and you’ll find some very well equipped touring parks and campsites, the perfect base for a family touring adventure.

For beginners to surfing, a natural start point is bodyboarding – just a short board that you lie on, belly down, and steer in to the beach on the best wave you can find. At Newquay you will see bodyboarders from 5 to 75 years old having fun between the flags under the watchful eye of the Lifeguards. At times the sea can be deceivingly powerful, and rip tides and strong currents should not be underestimated.

The main activity beaches in Newquay are Fistral beaches. These beaches have everything you could ask for on a full family day out – easy access for on the beach parking, thousands of acres of white sandy beaches, restaurants, pastie shops, cafes and surf shacks.

Once installed you can try out waveskiing, paddlesurfing, diving and kayaking from a number of activity centres.

Coast-to-coast:

With young children a coasteering class is highly recommended. These half day, full day or week long courses introduce beach safety, an understanding of the sea, of marine life, of coastal geology and ecology.

Combining rockpool walks and cliff walks with swimming and paddling activities, these courses are a favourite for all the family.

Other beaches in the area that are less commercialized include Mawgan Porth and Watergate Bay. Off the beaches there is a vibrant town and an excellent go kart track, paintball centre, Segway hire, cycling routes, and an array of coastal walks to choose from.

One small, quite secluded but popular coastal village is St Agnes. When the tide starts to go out from this pretty cove the high cliffs surrounding this tiny village overlook a flat sandy beach. St Agnes is a dramatic theatre on the coastline, and a very peaceful spot indeed.

Rain? No pain:

If you encounter a rainy day around Newquay, fear not! Classic Air Force is one of the world’s largest collections of iconic aircraft from the 1950s and 1960s and is a brand new attraction for all the family in Cornwall. This living aircraft museum will be home to a fleet of flying historic aircraft, which includes the largest operational fleet of vintage jets in the UK. You will be able to see and touch these magnificent aeroplanes up close and even fly in some of them! To take learnings from the coasteering course that step further, plan a trip to the Blue Reef Aquarium. Newquay Zoo is always a good option for a day’s respite from the sun, sea and sand.

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 Discover More: Hendra:

Hendra is one of the largest campsites in cornwall, and is found a couple of miles outside newquay. This is a large park offering touring pitches with or without electric hook-up (tents are allowed too). There are so many pitches across 12 (yes, 12) fields you’d be forgiven for taking some time to decide on the best spot!

Hendra’s award winning facilities include awning pads for super Pitches.

Freeview on selected pitches, terraced pitches for easy access and good access roads allowing for wide berths. Hendra also won the coveted “Loo of the Year” awards – and for very good reason. These are among the very best touring campsite toilet blocks Discover Touring has been to. on site there is so much to do, with kids clubs, heated outdoor pool and an oasis indoor fun pool.

This is such a large site with such extensive facilities daytime and evening activities that you can simply choose how involved you’d like to be. Whether you need a break and want the kids safe and looked after for a while so you can relax, or you just want peace and quiet, away from the action, all the options are here. on the north/west cornish coast, Hendra is a great touring base for the whole area. You can reach Lands end and back in a day, take a trip to Padstow and rock, and explore the south cornwall coast from here, too. www.hendra-holidays.com

Discover Touring

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The height of refinement 18

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Discover Touring

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REGIONAL TOURING | SOUTHWEST OF ENGLAND

Flying South for Winter

cosy cotswold villages, comforting cornish cream teas and coastal paths; it’s time to fly southwest this winter.

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ornwall and Devon may usually be associated with summer sun but they are equally inviting during the quieter months, when you could find a beach to call your own for a coastal walk. With lots of rural lanes in both counties, it’s best to park up at a campsite and head out on foot or bike to enjoy the scenery.

That’s not forgetting the inland counties of Wiltshire and Gloucestershire, each having unique countryside to explore, with plenty of things to do indoors – including the new visitor centre at Stonehenge.

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Family Days Out:

Mining Heartlands Heartlands (www.heartlandscornwall.com) is a new, free visitor attraction and World Heritage Site gateway in Cornwall. Situated just off the A30 in Pool, near Redruth in the former mining heart of Cornwall, there are 19 acres of eclectic fun to explore.

State-of-the-art exhibitions, climb-on sculptures, gardens of epic diversity, a giant adventure playscape for children, art and craft studios and a funky café in the old carpenter’s workshop.

With swathes of green outdoor space for warm, sunny days and ever-curious indoor space when it’s wet, Heartlands is all-year round, all-weather entertainment for all.

Stonehenge’s new visitor experience The much-anticipated new visitor centre at Stonehenge (www.english-heritage. org.uk/daysout/properties/stonehenge) is near completion. With its gently rolling roof designed to mirror the contours of the Wiltshire countryside, the building is due to open in December 2013. Also near completion

REGIONAL TOURING | SOUTHWEST OF ENGLAND

Main picture: Winter bites at Arlington Row, Bibury in the Cotswolds.

Credit: ©Caroline Mills Top left: Heartlands, a new attraction in Cornwall.

Middle left: Stonehenge prepares for its new visitor centre.

Credit: ©Caroline Mills Top right: The Pump Room Trio continues to entertain visitors to Bath’s Pump Rooms. Credit: ©Caroline Mills Above: Corfe Castle, Dorset. Credit: ©Caroline Mills Bottom left: Mendip Hills, Somerset. Credit: ©Visit Britain/Stephen Spraggon

are two ‘pods’; one – covered in sweet chestnut – will house the exhibition galleries while the second glass one will contain the café, shop and education space.

The new visitor centre will have permanent exhibitions on the history of Stonehenge itself and the surrounding landscapes, which are rich in architectural history. The removal of the road and car parks (relocated 1.5 miles away) means that visitors will be able to walk more freely around the site and discover the Iron Age barrows and burial mounds. Neolithic houses will be the highlight of Stonehenge’s outdoor gallery of the visitor centre.

Stonehenge remains open to visitors as normal while the work is on-going.

Cultural Britain – History and Heritage: The Pump Room Trio, Bath

Elegance is the word to sum up Bath’s Pump Room, the setting for tea and Bath buns. Its very nature makes you sit up straight. The giant chandelier – taller than the height of most people’s living room – sparkles across the hall and the dashing figure of Beau Nash, Bath’s one-time master of ceremonies, peers down from the wall holding his set of etiquette rules, as if to make sure that you hold your teacup properly and keep your elbows off the table.

The bow-tied Pump Room Trio adds to the elegance. They continue a tradition that began with the Pump Room Orchestra, allegedly one of the oldest established ensembles in the British Empire, founded by Beau Nash in 1706.

Corfe Castle, Dorset Corfe Castle has had a grisly past. With tales of murder, deceit, captives and all-out war, its walls have seen many gruesome things. Built during

the Norman Conquest, the castle became a part of royal history. Its defining moment came during the English Civil War when, as a Royalist stronghold, the castle took a battering from the Parliamentarians. It survived – just – a first attack but succumbed to Cromwell’s men in 1646 when an insider betrayed the Royalist seat.

The castle captured, it was blown up to prevent further occupation and has laid ruined ever since. Now owned by the National Trust (www.nationaltrust.org.uk) visitors can walk the walls. A visit to the picturesque village of the same name is also worth some time.

The Great Outdoors:

Mendip Hills, Somerset Just 20 miles or so to the south of Bath and Bristol are the Mendip Hills. Rising to just over 1000 feet (300 metres) at the highest point, this plateau of limestone hills stretches almost fifty miles and offers panoramic views. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Mendips have many valleys or ‘combes’ in which mellow, stone-walled villages lie. The most famous of these is Cheddar Gorge, Britain’s largest limestone gorge.

The Mendips (www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk) make an excellent playground for numerous outdoor activities, from caving to climbing, horse riding to mountain biking, walking to off-roading.  Discover Touring

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REGIONAL TOURING | SOUTHWEST OF ENGLAND South West Coast Path With a micro-climate that creates milder winters and allegedly more sunshine than anywhere else in the UK, why not spend winter on the English Riviera in Devon? The long-distance South-West Coast Path, which edges its way from Minehead in North Somerset right around Cornwall and Devon

to Swanage in Dorset, takes in the 22-miles of coastline along the English Riviera.

Continue walking southwest for some of the path’s most spectacular vistas, around the South Devon Heritage Coast. Beverley Park (see Where to Stay), which has good views of the sea, is a good base from where to set out.

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 Discover More: www.visitcornwall.com www.visitdevon.co.uk www.visitsomerset.co.uk www.visit-dorset.com www.visitwiltshire.co.uk www.cotswolds.com

 Discover Where to Stay: Padstow Touring Park:

open all year, Padstow Touring Park is a few minutes from the town centre and offers an underfloor heated amenity block. Padstow’s maritime micro-climate means, even in the depths of winter, frost is rare and snow almost unheard of.

Padstow, Cornwall, PL28 8LE Tel 01841 532061 Web: www.padstowtouringpark.co.uk

Beverley Park:

if it’s an indoor heated pool, sauna, spa, steam room and fitness suite that you’re after, Beverley Park is the place to head for. situated on the english riviera, there are plenty of picturesque beaches to take a brisk walk; goodrington sands

is less than a mile away. Pitches are fully serviced at this award-winning five star park, open all year.

Goodrington Road, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 7JD Tel 01803 843887 www.beverley-holidays.co.uk

Stonehenge Touring Park:

A quiet and relaxing site tucked along a no-through-road in the tiny village of orcheston. stonehenge is only 4 miles away and Woodhenge, the older relation to its stone counterpart, is just a little further at Amesbury and is free to visit.

Orcheston, Salisbury, SP3 4SH Tel 01980 620304 www.stonehengetouringpark.com

Top: Padstow Touring Park.

Middle: Stonehenge Touring Park.

Bottom: Beverley Park.

 Discover Extra – The Cotswolds: renowned for its charming honeystoned villages and towns, the cotswolds comes into its own as the temperature cools, with crisp winter walks along the hilltops and valleys, and quaint tearooms plus inns with roaring log fires to welcome visitors. The line of limestone hills stretch from Bath in the southwest towards stratford-upon-Avon in the northeast and covers six counties.

Designated an Area of outstanding natural Beauty covering 787 square miles, it takes more than a few days to truly appreciate its charm, but a long weekend will at least make a start.

Itinerary:

Day 1– Begin with a trip to escape to the cotswolds! in northleach, the visitor information centre for the AonB, where you can learn more about why the cotswolds looks the way it does together with its history. Move the few miles southwest to the national Trust’s

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Discover Touring

chedworth roman villa to see how the romans utilised the landscape; the villa demonstrates original underfloor heating and mosaics. continue onto cirencester for more roman interaction at the corinium Museum. Don’t forget to look at the town’s parish church, one of hundreds of ‘wool churches’ throughout the cotswolds, a defining aspect of the area. Find one of numerous tearooms in the town to warm up – Blackjack street is a good place to start.

Stay: Hoburne cotswold, cirencester; www.hoburne.com Day 2 – Take a visit to, first, Tetbury to wander the many antiques and interior design shops – not forgetting a quick spending spree in the Highgrove shop, with HrH The Prince of Wales’ family home just outside the town. secondly, a visit to Malmesbury will reward you with views of the splendid Malmesbury Abbey and stories of a flying monk.

Both towns have numerous eateries, which can be followed by a trip to Westonbirt Arboretum, one of the Forestry commission’s prime visitor sites in the uK. Stay: Tobacconist Farm, Minchinhampton; www.tobacconistfarm.co.uk Day 3 – The cotswolds is made for walking so head onto the cotswold Way between uley and Painswick for some spectacular hilltop views. This national long distance trail covers 102 miles from Bath in the south to chipping campden in the north. continue north for a driving tour of the north cotswolds sleepy villages, such as snowshill, Broadway and The slaughters, where you can find dozens of eating places to relax by a log fire after a day’s walking.

Stay: Moreton-in-Marsh caravan club site; www.caravanclub.co.uk

PLACE IN FOCUS | SOUTH HAMS

Fishin’ and shootin’

caption: Never a dull moment in Salcombe, South Hams where the living is easy.

“Somebody just back of you while you are fishing is as bad as someone looking over your shoulder while you write a letter to your girl,” quote Hemingway. How one family survived Author: Barry Eaton the rigours of salcombe in south Hams, and a fishing trip.

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ishing. Can sometimes get nothing, can sometimes hit rich. We hit rich big time and a massive shoal of mackerel flapping under the boat was the target – unseen in the tenebrous waters, but most certainly there.

That was how our first day in Salcombe in South Hams panned out. Catching a lot of fish to gut and cook that evening. We planned our short stay in this famous resort meticulously (I think they call it a mini break) and what follows is the best of the best on offer in this unique part of the world.

Shooting: Fancy taking a pot shot at a little metal rabbit? Then look no further than the Salcombe Shooting School. Founded 20 years ago by a former Royal Marine and a keen and experienced game shooter, the effusive owner saw a need to start a school for people to practice prior to the game shooting season. The school has recently opened an Air Rifle Range with a variety of knock down targets, the challenging Bell (if you fire your pellet into a very small hole some 40 feet away, a bell will ring!) and marksman targets. Using high quality German air rifles with powerful telescopic sights this is the best fun to be had away from the water and is suitable for children as young as eight. Camping is also available at the site. www.salcombeshootingschool.co.uk Sailing: If your children love the great

outdoors and the gentle lap of water, then

a day with the Salcombe Dinghy Sailing is a must. The good folk here have created children’s sailing afternoons for 8-16 year olds. Held every Tuesday and Thursday until the end of August they are great for novices and experienced sailors alike, involving tuition, sailing races and competitions. The Swallows & Amazons adventure – a watery wet treasure hunt – is included within the £50 price. www.salcombedinghysailing.co.uk

Kayaking: With Salcombe and its surrounding area boasting breathtaking paddling with wild life (sea lions and dolphins), secluded beaches, wilderness creek paddling and rock hopping, the team at Sea Kayak and SUP Salcombe will get you and your group up real close and personal to the natural world.

With the no experience required, halfday tours and the more adventurous full day tours are available on a great selection of single or double kayaks. You can mix it up a little and plump for an adventure tour with a spot of coasteering, which includes rock jumping, lagoon swimming and rock traversing. A guaranteed buzz for all. www.southsandssailing.co.uk Eating: The Victoria Inn: at the heart of

Salcombe this pub offers a solid menu of traditional British food, you will find no stuff and nonsense here! A highlight is the beer garden at the back (unless you go inside you

would not know it’s there) fitted out with a kid’s play area and an aviary. Well worth a visit. www.victoriainn-salcombe.co.uk Island Street Bar and Grill: a tucked away restaurant on Island Street with a terrace over the estuary. Great atmosphere, live music and the kind of steaks you would find in an American diner!

Also recommend the fish here. Good fun, friendly owner and lively atmosphere.

Book early as it gets very busy in the evenings. www.islandstreet.co.uk Sailor V: a new foodie delight by the steps down to the ferry. This place opens for breakfast (smoothies, honest eggs and bacon – or salmon if you are feeling flush).

Its doors remain open late into the night and the day menu is simple home cooked food and good coffee (and all very well priced). This will definitely become the cool place to hang out. This restaurant is from the same stable as the Winking Prawn – a legendary restaurant on North Sands. No booking needed, just turn up and tune out. www.facebook.com/sailorVsalcombe The Venus Company: a chain of uber cool eco beach cafés that serve a wide range of snacks or you can have a full-blown main meal; fish and chips, great salads, the list goes on. Located in Blackpool Sands, East Portlemouth, Bigbury on Sea, Tolcarne, Watergate Bay and Dartington. www.lovingthebeach.co.uk

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cornwall’s finest parks

independent, top graded parks, offering fabulous facilities, superb locations and superior service - especially for families and couples - choose a great holiday from cornwall’s finest quality parks

H O L I D AY PA R K camping

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Porth, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 3NH

Quite simply a five star holiday

01637 875778 www.hendra-holidays.com

Call: 01637 876531

or book online at www.porthbeach.co.uk

Hendra Holidays, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 4NY

“...a green champion” - David Bellamy

One of Cornwall’s Finest Parks

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Voted BEST FAMILY SITE UK 2013 Voted BEST SMALL SITE IN UK 2012

Go adventuring again in Cornwall... Ş Superb touring & camping facilities, plus ready tents and safari tents for hire Ş Luxury caravans for hire & sale. Plus new Lodge pitches for sale Ş Ideal base for Crantock and Newquay’s beaches Ş Play areas, TV & games room, cafe & takeaway and launderette Ş Heated outdoor swimming & paddling pools, lakes & free

TOP 3 SMALL SITES IN EUROPE 2012 - Alan Rogers A multi-award winning site set in a wooded valley, close to sandy beaches cycle routes, walks gardens & historic sites.

COTTAGES, HOLIDAY CARAVANS, TOURERS & WIGWAM CAMPING CABINS

01209 216489

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Tehidy Holiday Park, Harris Mill, Illogan, Redruth, Cornwall. TR16 4JQ

PENTIRE HAVEN HOLIDAY PARK

holiday@tehidy.co.uk

Bude, EX23 9QY

01288 321601

Caravan and Camping in glorious Cornwall Camping: Touring: Motor Homes: Holiday Homes Level Pitches: Electric Hook-ups: Hard Standings Nearby Beaches: Surfing: Cycling: Free WiFi

Tel: 01637 830 308

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holidays@pentirehaven.co.uk www.pentirehaven.co.uk

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cornwall’s finest parks

Email: stay@treloy.co.uk

po o

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Website: www.treloy.co.uk The friendly park in beautiful Cornwall

In

Telephone: 01637 872063

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independent, top graded parks, offering fabulous facilities, superb locations and superior service - especially for families and couples - choose a great holiday from cornwall’s finest quality parks

Camping : Touring : Holiday Homes

Address: Newquay, Cornwall TR8 4JN Heated swimming pool

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Rejerrah, Newquay, Cornwall TR8 5QJ - 01872 572407 A park for all seasons Quintrell Downs, Newquay, Cornwall TR8 4QR

Tranquil family park only minutes from a Blue Flag surfing beach

Set in beautiful countryside, Trethiggey is an award-winning touring park just minutes from Cornwall’s “Coast of Dreams” and some of the finest beaches in Europe.

Centrally positioned for top attractions including the Eden Project, we’re only seven miles from Newquay International Airport.

01209 890256

Tel: 01637 877672 E-mail: enquiries@trethiggey.co.uk Online booking: www.trethiggey.co.uk

Porthtowan Tourist Park, Mile Hill, Porthtowan, Truro, Cornwall, TR4 8TY

www.porthtowantouristpark.co.uk na e or ri th ld t f Ma n fie ou rd n o ich 3 ok ha tio r L 201 Lo Orc ruc nea er s st al m ng on n m Ki r c ca su de try ing un ven en o op C

Grove Lock Mari n a “ The friendl y M arina” A

picture is worth rrth a thousand words - as this image at Grove ov ove Lock Marina on the Grand Union Canal south of Leighton Buzzard, clearly shows.

Opened in December 2009, this fabulous new marina is the newest owned and managed by Pridewater Estates Ltd - a company dedicated to developing the finest leisure boat marinas on the canal system.

Picture shows Grove Lock Marina on the offi of cial Opening pening Day celebration June 2010

• High level of security • Caretaker on site • Bollards supplying metered electricity and water to every mooring • Top quality toilets and showers • Four Gold Service berths each with a private bathroom • Free WI-FI • Pump out, Elsan, gas and diesel sales

• Ample free parking • 6 acres of attractive landscaped meadows • Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere in a beautiful location • Five pitches each with water and electricity connections exclusively for Caravan Club members

For more information visit To discuss pricing and availability of moorings and caravan pitches call our Caretaker, Paul Catling, on the number below, any day except Wednesday.

MLB19408•1032•G•DI (2)

Grove Lock Marina, Grove, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 OQU. T: 01525 377 444 email: mail@grovelockmarina.co.uk

RetRo Ro caRavan R caRavan images fRom the 1960’s, 1970’s and 1980’s.

AvAilAble now.

to pick up your own copy ring J salmon, publishers, on 01732 452381 today.

Discover Touring

25

REGIONAL TOURING | SOUTh Of ENGLANd

Southern Softies

Main picture: Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire Credit: ©National Trust Images/Michael Caldwell

Mixing with royalty, hitting the slopes and taking a wander through Britain’s newest national park are all possible ‘down south’.

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here’s no getting away from it, the South of England is soft. By comparison to northern granite and millstone grit, the south is, largely, made up of soft chalk, clay and sandstone. It’s no bad thing though, for it gives the south its character – the gentle rolling countryside of the Chilterns and the Downs, the soft, sandy beaches of the south coast and pretty villages created with the red hues and pinks of brick built houses. These soft rocks have helped Sussex and Hampshire to their fair share of beachcombers or Kent to become the Garden of England. Tourers will find quiet lanes, 26

Discover Touring

superb regional produce and plenty of space to uncover somewhere new in the south.

Family Days Out:

Snozone, Buckinghamshire If you’re planning on heading out to the slopes this winter and need to brush up on your technique, Snozone (www.snozoneuk. com) in Milton Keynes (there’s also one in Castleford and Renfrewshire) can provide the answer. There are ski lessons for adults and kids or you can simply head to the main slope for your own practice. Snozone guarantees 100% snow.

Royal Windsor, Berkshire With the world welcoming the arrival of the Prince of Cambridge earlier this year, Royal Windsor (www.windsor.gov.uk) could be the place to catch a glimpse. There are plenty of royal things to see and do in the town, such as carriage rides through Windsor Great Park, provided by Ascot Carriages, or taking an open top bus tour through the town, followed by a boat trip on the River Thames.

Changing the Guard takes place at 11am on alternate days; the best viewing point is the Corn Exchange at the famous Windsor Guildhall. Inside Windsor Castle, the world’s

REGIONAL TOURING | SOUTh Of ENGLANd Academy of Arts to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee. The gift has been added to the Royal Collection (www.royalcollections.org.uk) and will go on display at The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace this autumn from 1st November 2013 until 16th March 2014.

The portfolio includes prints, drawings, photographs and works in oil, watercolour and mixed media, contributed by 93 Academicians.

These include some of the most high-profile contemporary artists including Tracey Emin, David Hockney, Anish Kapoor, Cornelia Parker and Grayson Perry among others.

The Great Outdoors:

Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire A countryside estate covering 2,000 hectares (5,000 acres) and running along the main ridge of the Chiltern Hills, the breathtaking scenery of the Ashridge Estate (www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ashridge) ranges from ancient oak and beech woodland to rolling chalk grassland at Ivinghoe Beacon.

There is a huge network of paths, with the chance to spot wildlife – including wild fallow deer and red kites. Each season brings its own delights, with carpets of bluebells in spring, beautiful orchids and butterflies in summer, spectacular leaf colour in autumn and frostcovered trees in winter. The visitor centre, near the Bridgewater Memorial, offers ideas for walks and family days out.

Top right: Windsor Castle from the River Thames Credit: ©Windsor.gov.uk Middle left: Hever Castle, Kent Credit: ©VisitBritain/ Britain on View Middle right: The City Sightseeing Bus stops right outside Windsor Castle Credit: ©Windsor.gov.uk Bottom right: Snozone, Milton Keynes.

oldest and largest inhabited castle, you can watch the changing ceremony outside the Guardroom in the Lower Ward. Visits to the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel (burial place of ten monarchs) and Queen Mary’s Dolls House are also possible while there.

Cultural Britain – History and Heritage:

Hever Castle, Kent Historic Hever Castle and Gardens, with its enchanting double-moated castle and 125 acres of spectacular gardens to explore, offers the visitor plenty to discover and enjoy.

Once the family home of Anne Boleyn – one of England’s most famous Queens, the intriguing second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I – the 13th century castle houses historic 16th century portraits,

paintings, furniture, tapestries and treasures.

Alternatively, visit the Council Chamber in the gatehouse, which contains collections of historic swords, armour, instruments of execution, torture and discipline!

In addition to the castle, visitors can explore the magnificent gardens for all seasons which include Italian, Rose and Tudor gardens, topiary, yew maze and splashing water maze, or take a stroll around the informal areas of Sunday Walk and Anne Boleyn’s Walk.

Hever (www.hevercastle.co.uk) hosts a number of special events throughout the season including festive activities over the Christmas period.

Royal Collection, London Her Majesty The Queen was presented with a gift of 97 works on paper by the Royal

South Downs National Park Bus Walks is a series of leaflets that feature inspiring walks handily starting and finishing at bus stops throughout the South Downs, Britain’s newest National Park. There are 18 Bus Walks across the Downs, taking in footpaths and bridleways in areas from Worthing to Beachy Head. Each unique walk offers a different experience of the Downs, including the option of exploring areas of new Open Access land. These can be downloaded from www.southdowns.gov.uk/enjoying/outdooractivities/walks-and-rides. Alternatively, You can access parts of the South Downs, Britain’s newest National Park, by the ‘Breeze’ bus service from Brighton to Devil’s Dyke, Stanmer Park and Ditchling Beacon. Don’t forget the 160-kilometre South Downs Way too.

Towns and villages:

Ampthill, Bedfordshire The small market town of Ampthill may not be foremost in people’s minds, but its links with Tudor history is rich. Henry VIII often stayed at Ampthill, bringing prosperity to the town. His whole court came with him, dealing with affairs of state before Henry set off for the hunt from Ampthill Castle. His first queen, Katherine of Aragon, lived here for a year during the trial at Dunstable, which ended their marriage, and the Katherine Cross, erected in her memory, marks the place on the ridge where the castle once stood.

Today Ampthill has many Georgian buildings, narrow streets and antique shops. u Discover Touring

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REGIONAL TOURING | SOUTh Of ENGLANd Main picture: South Downs National Park Top right: Ampthill, Bedfordshire Bottom left: Gilbert White House in Selborne, Hampshire Credit: ©Pat Edgar

From Ampthill Park, there’s a grand view north across the Marston Vale towards Bedford. For over a hundred years, the local clay was used for brickmaking and in the 1960s, Stewartby, recognisable by its remaining four chimneys (once there were 130), was the largest brickworks in the world. It closed in 2008 and a million new trees are now transforming the landscape.

The woods and heathlands of the Greensand Ridge are a haven for walkers and wildlife. Sandstone from the ridge has long been used as a building material,

creating the distinctive character of Ampthill and nearby villages.

Selborne, Hampshire Discover the stories of three great explorers of the natural world under one roof at Gilbert White’s House & Garden and The Oates Collection (www.gilbertwhiteshouse. org.uk), a fascinating museum open all year round and set in the pretty village of Selborne, North East Hampshire. These include the pioneering 18th century naturalist author of the world famous

Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne, Gilbert White; Captain Lawrence Oates of the final Scott Antarctic expedition of 19111912 and Victorian explorer of North and Central America and Africa, Frank Oates.

Gilbert White’s 30 acres of magnificent garden and parkland is also open to explore.

The conservation village of Selborne is very attractive with superb walks, a pottery, art gallery and several bijou shops worthy of a visit. Gilbert White is also buried in the village church, which has two stained glass windows in his memory.

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Ü Discover Where to Stay: Lytton Lawn Touring Park:

Brighton Sheepcote Valley Caravan Club Site:

Located two miles east of Brighton and tucked into a fold in the south Downs, this site is perfect for visiting the south Downs national Park. A golf course is adjacent and Brighton racecourse nearby. The site is open all year.

East Brighton Park, Brighton, BN2 5TS Tel 01273 626546 www.caravanclub.co.uk

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ideal for visiting Hampshire, this site is exclusively for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents. open until 5th January 2014, guests can enjoy pre-christmas cracker Weekends in november or christmas and new Year festivities on site. The site reopens at the beginning of February.

Lymore Lane, Milford-on-Sea, Hampshire, SO41 0TX Tel 01590 648331 www.shorefield.co.uk/lyttonlawn/

Hertford Camping & Caravanning Club Site:

on the outskirts of Hertfordshire’s county town, the site is a great base for exploring the local countryside. Alternatively, you can take a train for a day out in London.

The site is open all year.

Mangrove Road, Hertford SG13 8AJ Tel 01992 586696 www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

Ü Discover More: www.visitbedford.co.uk www.visitbuckinghamshire.org www.visitkent.co.uk www.visitsurrey.com www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com www.oxfordshirecotswolds.com www.enjoysussex.info www.visit1066country.com www.visit-hampshire.co.uk

pLAcE IN fOcUS | ISLES Of ScILLy

A very Scilly summer With magnetic wristbands secured and travel sickness tablets distributed, we set sail from Penzance at 9.15am on a hot summer’s day. My children and i were excited as we departed for an under-canvas adventure on the isles of scilly.

Author: Sam Bird

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he Scillonian ferry that crosses the choppy Atlantic waters to the Isles of Scilly has been recently renovated.

There is a well-stocked snack-style buffet on board and plenty of outside seating on the upper deck. The crossing was fortunately very calm that day with tolerable Atlantic swell – be warned though, as the seas around these parts can get pretty rough.

The clear blue sky permitted spectacular views of Land’s End and at the end of the two-hour trip seeing the Scillies hove into view was something to behold. A feeling of travelling somewhere faraway and romantic descended on our happy party.

As cars are not allowed on the isles, we had pre-arranged to park in Penzance through Scilly Parking. Transporting four young children and a mountain of luggage is no easy task and so their efficient luggage handling service helped ease the inevitable chaos that might have ensued getting to the ferry on time.

Our home for the three days of our holiday was a borrowed tipi, which was pitched at The Garrison Campsite on St Mary’s, the largest of the isles. Our bags and camping equipment were taken directly up to the campsite enabling us to meander unladen through Hugh Town. Despite the time of year, the town was busy but pretty chilled; the soothing Scillonian pace of life was to become our metronome for the rest of our stay.

The old fort walls and 16th century

battlements, with spectacular views of the surrounding isles, protect the campsite. The children took one look at the battlements and set off to explore, leaving mum to set up camp. The pitches are spacious with plenty of shrubbery for shelter and picnic benches for al fresco dining. The washroom facilities are fairly basic but adequate - they could do with a touch of modernising, especially at £1 for a five-minute shower. Ted Moulson, the owner, was a delight and full of helpful information about things to see and do in the area.

Crystal clear waters

There are some lovely walks directly from the campsite. A short saunter to Porthcressa beach and you quickly encounter white sand and crystal clear waters, atypical of a Caribbean beach and certainly not expected just 25 miles southwest of the English mainland. As the sun set on our first day we cooked on the beach, grilling fresh mackerel caught that morning. The only interruption was shrieks from Anna, my eldest daughter, being chased down the beach by her brother Tom with a handful of slimy seaweed.

Simple pleasures.

No trip to the Isles of Scilly is complete without a boat trip to the outlying islands.

Dave Hooper, a charming fellah, owns The Crusader boat. He was our guide for the day and after picking us up at St Mary’s Quay,

Main picture: Every view on the Isles of Scilly is guaranteed to blow you away.

Above: Fishing on the beach and camping at The Garrison Campsite on St Mary’s.

he wasted no time in telling us about the isles – he was full of colourful tales about their rich history and had extensive knowledge of the native marine wildlife; his enthusiasm for all that lay around him was compelling.

We tripped around St Martin’s and Bryher islands followed by a sightsee tour u Discover Touring

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pLAcE IN fOcUS | ISLES Of ScILLy of the uninhabited islands of the Western Rocks, the Norrard Rocks and the Eastern Isles, which at mid tide had exposed a family of seals. Some of the braver ones alternated in circling and playing around the boat much to my children’s delight. We booked too late to secure a reservation at the popular ‘swim with seals’ excursion – something we would love to do next time.

Exotic plants

Dave dropped us off at Tresco for lunch.

This island’s main focus are the sub-tropical gardens surrounding Tresco Abbey House, which hosts thousands of exotic plants. We made the short walk to The New Inn to fill hungry tummies. The food was excellent and very reasonably priced. We spent the rest of the afternoon blissfully exploring Tresco’s mecca of white-sanded beaches, swimming in the sea and kayaking, so much so we completely lost track of time and nearly missed our rendezvous with Dave at 5pm for the return journey to St Mary’s. Running to the quay we were rescued by a passing buggy – the only mode of transport on Tresco, apart from bikes of course. We made it to the boat just in time.

Scillonian living is much like a scene from Postman Pat, with the addition of lush tropical vegetation and white sandy

beaches. There is no wonder that the isles are depicted as a giant, natural greenhouse – I am not green fingered, far from it, but I was in awe at the wide array of colours and flora on display.

Primed for the unpretentious, holidaying on the Isles of Scilly is about as traditional as family breaks can get. Think The Famous Five with or without lashings of ginger beer.

Boat trips, picnics, exploring and bike riding underpin most family holidays, which in my view, is just perfect.

This place is truly delightful and magically peaceful – and we are already planning our next trip.

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Above: Exploring and walking in the peaceful, protective arms of the Isles of Scilly.

Ü Discover More: www.garrisonholidays.com www.crusaderboating.co.uk www.ios-travel.co.uk

Come & hang out with us!

Monkey Talks Activities, Gardens Play area Shop & Café

Buy 1 adult ticket online & enter the code DT when paying to get your FREE child’s ticket www.shop.wildfutures.org/monkeysanctuary

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THE UK S LARGEST RANGE OF ART MATERIALS 5,000+ colours in paints 1,000+ canvases 100+ easels 250+ brush ranges 1,200+ markers 3,000+ papers 500+ frames EVEN MORE online at

www.greatart.co.uk

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GreatArt Price &Choice No. 1 Online Art Materials Supplier

AcTIVITIES | pAINTING

The art of touring

Taking up an art technique is a wonderful way to relax and offers self-satisfaction and a sense of achievement as a bonus! Anyone can give it a try and the experts at greatArt are here to help you get started.

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hen selecting your art materials, remember that this is about relaxing, so keep it simple with a few essentials that you can pick up to work with at a moment’s notice. The simplest materials to start working with are dry media such as pencils and pastels in a sketchbook or on a pad. Drawing is the building block of most art forms, and pencils are very forgiving when it comes to correcting mistakes or making changes in the early stages.

If you are painting, watercolour and acrylics make great starting mediums.

They do not require any additional subsidiary products to start with, and offer easier clean up than oils. Keep your

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colour palettes simple. You can get a good starting point from a selection of 3 primary colours, neutral black and white, plus a few additional earth tones such as burnt umber, sienna and a shade of green. Once you are used to the basics of colour mixing, you can start adding different shades based on your subject matter in order to capture the right shade of, for example, rose or turquoise.

Here are some suggested products to help you create your beginner’s capsule art kit:

• Reeves Acrylic Colour Tube Set of 12 • Aquafine Pocket Watercolour Set • Plastic Mixing Palette

• Aquarell Classic Watercolour Pads • I Love Art Watercolour and Acrylic Brush Sets • I Love Art Canvas Boards of varying sizes • Gerstaecker Sketchbooks • Jaxell Soft Pastels set of 12 • Derwent Metal Box Pencil Sets As well as covering the essentials, these products are all easily transportable for creating works of art away from home should inspiration strike. Additional products that will benefit your kit include a sharpener, eraser, water pot or jar, and paper towels for blending and blotting.

Brushes of varying sizes can also be added

AcTIVITIES | pAINTING

Ü Courses on Campsites Why not combine a painting course with a stay on a campsite? Discover Touring gives you a pick of the best.

Waterrow Touring Park, Waterrow, Wiveliscombe Taunton, Somerset, TA24 2AZ Tel: 01984 623464 www.waterrowpark.co.uk At Waterrow Touring Park you can learn to paint with watercolours or improve on the skills you already have. groups are generally for a maximum of eight students to enable a high level of support to each individual from the tutor, Kevin Middleton. classes are aimed at mixed ability groups so that students also learn from each other.

The landscaped touring park, exclusively for adults, is surrounded by beautiful, rolling countryside. open all year, the park includes 38 all-weather touring pitches, individually spaced and separated by mature hedges and shrubs.

The Old Oaks Touring Park Wick Farm, Wick, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 8JS Tel: 01458 831437 www.theoldoaks.co.uk

Main image: Start with lighter shades and build up to darker tones to add depth to your work. inset: Anything holds potential for a composition, look for contrasting shadows or interesting textures.

Credit: © Alexis Le Borgne

as you gain experience of your preferred subjects and techniques.

What to create:

So what do you want to capture with your pencil or brush? Anything around you holds potential for a composition.

A still life is normally a comfortable starting point for most beginners as you have the luxury of time to consider your subject and complete your painting or sketch without worrying about changes of position. Working from photographs is also good practice and means you can revisit a piece over a longer period of time. When drawing, start by reducing everything to its simplest form with a few

Whether you’re an absolute beginner, improver or advanced painter, the sussex artist Michael carter can offer his expert help and advice while you paint in the peace & tranquillity of the beautiful somerset countryside. You can choose your own media as watercolour, acrylic, oils and pastels are all taught, with the option of one to four-day courses and workshops. Painting is offered in the outdoors as much as possible, although facilities are available indoors if required.

The old oaks is also a touring park for adults only and regularly receives awards and acclaim for its facilities and friendliness. Located close to glastonbury town centre, the site is a member of the Tranquil Touring Parks group.

lines that will allow you to place shadows, shading and detail. If you are painting begin with your lighter shades and build up to darker colours and tones as these will cover more easily and add depth to your work.

A wonderful way to gain inspiration is to work outside, where the subject matter is always changing. You don’t need to perch on a mountaintop or trek miles to a waterfall, simply find a comfortable spot and take a look around at your location.

It also isn’t necessary to capture a whole scene, look for contrasting shadows, bold shapes or interesting textures and colours.

You may choose to build on your work once you move on from your chosen

Treloan Coastal Holidays Treloan Lane, Gerrans, Portscatho, Cornwall, TR2 5EF Tel: 01872 580989 www.treloancoastalholidays.co.uk Art at Treloan extends to more than painting.

Here, there are activities and courses on poetry, bushcraft, wild food cookery and music in addition to drawing and painting. numerous writers and artists visit, including temporary seasonal residencies, to work on projects with guests staying on the campsite. And that includes children, who are welcome to join in with the various activities, which are designed to help educate about the local environment.

Treloan is a very special campsite, located on the roseland peninsula with just a couple of minute’s walk to both rocky and sandy beaches and coastal footpaths. Almost all pitches include spectacular views of the sea.

‘Freedom in Painting’ in Cornwall cornwall’s stunning coastal landscape will be the inspiration for this popular 5-day painting holiday. Hosted by renowned landscape artist and colourist Ashley Hanson, the course combines 2 days working on location, followed by 2 full days in the studio, where students will be encouraged to work imaginatively and creatively. Ashley will be demonstrating many tips and techniques and topics will include colour mixing, mark making and abstraction. A professional painter for over 30 years, Ashley has shown widely nationally and internationally, including the 2012 Discerning eye and the national open Art competition and the 2011 royal Academy summer exhibition.

This 5-day painting holiday is excellent value with prices starting from £395 including 5 days accommodation, 4 days full tuition, all lunches and a celebratory evening meal.

Dates for next year: 12-17 May, 22-29 Sept For more see: www.ashleyhanson.co.uk or contact denise@ashleyhanson.co.uk 01208 77656

location so in this case, capture the basics with some quick pencils lines or a photograph and work on your composition further at home or in a studio.

In the beginning be prepared to try different techniques and subjects until you find something you love and want to develop and build on. There are no right answers so embrace slips and mistakes as lessons, or turn them into something uniquely creative.

All materials mentioned in this feature are available from www.greatart.co.uk Visit them online or contact customer services on 08433 571 572 for a copy of their catalogue.

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regional touring | the Midlands

Middle of the country, not middle of the road

Main picture: Derwent Edge.

Credit: ©British Tourist Authority Top left: Canons Ashby.

Top right: Aurora Illuminations at Rufford Park, Nottinghamshire.

Middle left: Coventry Transport Museum.

Bottom right: Sulgrave Manor.

Bottom left: Boxes of regional varieties of apple available to buy at Clive’s Fruit Farm, Worcestershire.

country houses, market towns and a classic caravan – the Midlands has it all.

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ring of rural shires surrounds an industrial heartland, protecting a cluster of major British cities. To the west lies Worcestershire, underrated and filled with vineyards, fruit farms and seasonal produce. To the east, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire and Rutland, England’s smallest county. All three counties appear off the radar for major tourism and yet each has something special to offer visitors. To the south lies Warwickshire, renowned for its Shakespearean connections and yet there is so much more to the county than one playwright. The Midlands most ‘northern’ counties include Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, including the unmissable Peak District.

Family Days Out:

Canons Ashby, Northamptonshire The Dryden family has lived in Canons Ashby for over 460 years. The warm and welcoming property, now owned by the 34

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National Trust (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ canonsashby), has been largely unaltered in 300 years, creating a sense of timelessness throughout. Families can enjoy exciting activities and trails around the house, or take in the beautiful countryside with a selfguided walk. Among the many events that take place at Canons Ashby throughout the year are traditional Halloween evenings and a Victorian Christmas.

Restoration of the gardens was completed in June 2013, with a newly restored croquet lawn available to visitors. Children will find plenty of outdoor activities around the grounds too. Why not combine a trip to Canons Ashby with a visit to nearby Sulgrave Manor?

Aurora Illluminations, Nottinghamshire Experience the gentle magic of the Aurora Illuminations, as layers of coloured light transform the gardens of Rufford Abbey Country Park (www.nottinghamshire.gov. uk/enjoying/events/christmas/) to a winter

regional touring | the Midlands

wonderland, enhanced by a haunting soundtrack. A family favourite, held every December, this is a celebration of the park’s natural features at a special time of the year.

Wander the trails through the winter garden and experience surprises and colours at every turn.

Cultural Britain – History and Heritage:

Sulgrave Manor, Northamptonshire The ancestral home of George Washington, the first President of the United States of America, Sulgrave Manor (www. sulgravemanor.co.uk) sits prettily in a quiet corner of Northamptonshire. A branch of the Washington family emigrated to Virginia when they fell upon hard times due to their Royalist connections during the English Civil War. Hence it is said that the founding of the USA begins at Sulgrave Manor. The traditional English manor house is restored to the way in which the Washington family would have lived during the Tudor times

in which it was built, and includes an exhibition on George Washington. It’s worth spending some time in the gardens too, which include colonial plants and herbs.

The house closes at the end of October but reopens in March 2014.

Coventry Motor Museum, Warwickshire It’s not often that you find a museum free of charge to visit these days but the Coventry Transport Museum (www.transport-museum. com) is one of them – and it’s worth every penny! The futuristic building houses the world’s largest collection of British road transport from classic cars to old motorbikes, buses and bicycles. There’s even an old Eccles caravan. Celebrating Coventry’s past automotive industry, many of the vehicles on display were manufactured in the city. There are themed areas too, such as a very good Second World War ‘reconstruction’ of the city (Coventry was badly bombed during the Blitz).

Children will enjoy the hands-on exhibits connected with automotive engineering, or

visit ThrustSSC, the world’s fastest car holding the land speed record at 763mph.

The museum is open every day except 24th to 26th December and 1st January. Running until 5th January 2014 is the temporary exhibition, ‘War Effort’, throwing the spotlight on the British motor industry’s contribution to wartime production during the Second World War.

The Great Outdoors:

Clive’s Fruit Farm, Worcestershire Nestling between the Malvern Hills and River Severn, Clive’s Fruit Farm (www. clivesfruitfarm.co.uk) is a successful family business, founded in 1917.

Set within walking distance of the busy riverside town of Upton upon Severn the fruit farm has 100 acres of orchards, through which visitors can stroll for a walk or pick your own fruit – the farm grows twenty varieties of apples, including the local ‘Worcester’. Other fruits available in season include strawberries, raspberries, cherries, u Discover Touring

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regional touring | the Midlands

Left: King Richard III spent one of his final nights in Market Bosworth prior to the fatal Battle of Bosworth.

Top left: Kingsgreen Caravan Park.

Credit: ©caroline Mills

redcurrants, plums, apples and pears, and the farm’s own ‘single variety’ apple and pear juices plus traditional farmhouse cider and perry are available too. Advice and recipes are offered on what to do with the fruit you’ve picked.

Cycling around the Upper Derwent Reservoirs, Derbyshire The reservoirs of the Derwent and Howden were built nearly 100 years ago to supply the cities of Sheffield, Nottingham, Derby and Leicester. Ladybower was completed in 1945 to supply an ever-increasing demand. With the combination of water, woodlands and high moorland, the Upper Derwent has become a unique place for wildlife and provides some spectacular scenery for cycle rides.

There is a wide range of both easy going and challenging routes for cyclists, with cycle hire and an emergency cycle repair service available at the Fairholmes Visitor Information Centre, just south of the Derwent Dam. The Visitor Centre provides maps and guides on the area. A pay and display car park is also here, with parking accessible for motorhomes.

Don’t forget that cycling is only permitted on bridleways and designated cycle ways, not on footpaths or open moorland.

Towns & Villages:

Oakham, Rutland Bustling with activity and current holder of a coveted Britain in Bloom award, Oakham is a pretty, traditional market town. The county town of Rutland, England’s smallest county, Oakham (www.discover-rutland. co.uk/discover-rutland/oakham) is packed with heritage. Rutland County Museum is a great place to start, displaying the history of the town. A visit to the ruins of Oakham Castle, by the Market Place, provides clues as to why there is an intriguing collection of over 200 horseshoes hanging from the walls. The 36

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architecture of Oakham School is stunning, and a major landmark of the town. Founded in 1584, it is a highly regarded public school that has seen its fair share of famous pupils.

Wander through the Market Place to see the Butter Cross and enjoy shopping for local produce in the many butchers and bakers.

There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs for eating too.

Market Bosworth, Leicestershire Market Bosworth (www.goleicestershire.com) is a small market town located in the rural heart of Leicestershire. King Richard III spent one of his final nights in Market Bosworth prior to the fateful Battle of Bosworth where he lost his life in 1485. You can find out more at the nearby Bosworth Battlefield Heritage & Visitor Centre. Get a taste of the outdoors at the beautiful, historic parkland of Market

Bosworth Country Park, or you’re also close to Twycross Zoo and the Battlefield Line steam railway. For camping and caravanning, look no further than the sites at Bosworth Water Trust or Wolvey Park.

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Ü Discover More: www.experiencenottinghamshire.com www.visitheartofengland.co.uk www.shakespeare-country.co.uk www.goleicestershire.com www.visitpeakdistrict.com www.enjoystaffordshire.com www.visitworcestershire.org www.visitnorthamptonshire.co.uk

Ü Discover Where to Stay: Dodwell Park:

A small, family run site that is very clean and quiet. Two miles southwest of stratford-upon-Avon, it is the only campsite close to the town that is open all year.

Evesham Rd Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9SR Tel 01789 204957 www.dodwellpark.co.uk

Stanford Hall Caravan Park: A peaceful, tranquil site situated in rural Leicestershire, right on the northamptonshire/Warwickshire border. Family-owned and run, the site can accommodate all sizes of

unit up to 40ft American rvs and 5th wheel trailers.

Stanford Road, Swinford, Lutterworth, Leicestershire, LE17 6DH Tel 01788 860387 www.stanfordhallcaravanpark.co.uk

Kings Green Caravan Park:

A quiet site with pitches spaced around a pleasant fishing lake. consequently, fishing is available on site, as are views of the Malvern Hills.

Kings Green Farm, Kings Green Berrow Malvern, Worcestershire, WR13 6AQ Tel 01531 650272

our caravan insurance this spring... together with these great benefits: Extra discounts for approved safety and security devices

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12 months European cover and recovery whilst abroad

Call us now on 0844 346 1348 or visit www.towergateinsurance.co.uk Important information Policy exclusions include liability from the caravan being used for any trade or business. Insurers’ usual underwriting criteria apply.

Terms and conditions of 20% offer Offer excludes current customers. Not all discounts available online or in conjunction with any other offer.

Discounts will be deducted from the base premium before Insurance Premium Tax and Policy Fee. Offer expires 30/04/2014. Minimum premium of £156.45 applies. Discounts are based upon the ‘Select’, and ‘Choice’ products.

Towergate Insurance is trading name of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered Address: Towergate House, Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3EN.

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History | 1974

LIFE IN ‘74 Author: Andrew Jenkinson

1974 was a year of petrol shortages, rising inflation and power cuts - but it wasn’t all bad!

The UK economy wasn’t exactly on fire; after the 60’s boom and early

good start to the new decade by 1974 things had taken a turn for the worse. The economic slowdown affected the sales of new caravans with some makes such as the well-known Cheltenham luxury caravan maker going out of business.

This was the year that the entry-level sector for new caravans took off. Once dominated by Sprite, 1974 witnessed new names such as Monza, Piper, Prima and Perle coming head on at Sprite in price and specification. Back then entry-level tourers only had a hob and grill plus gaslights and a foot operated water pump – if you were lucky! Unlike today where you can find blown heating, hot water, shower and mains – in 1974 things were

pretty basic!

In this year a major breakthrough came regarding reversing with your tourer. Few caravanners did this – preferring to unhitch the caravan from the car and push it into position. Chassis manufacturers B&B Trailers (later becoming Al-Ko) fitted auto reverse Sigma hitches and this was seen as a major breakthrough in chassis design.

By 1974 mid-priced tourers (£750) were sporting stainless steel sinks, electrically pumped water, 12-volt strip lamps and better insulation. Awnings were becoming more common as prices dropped and proved easier to erect. Gas lighting was still common in tourers but now they had an auto ignition system, so no more broken mantles using matches.

Saving money

Back in 1974 you could still draw up in a lay-by and stop for several nights and the chances were that if you left your caravan to pop into town it was still their when you got back! No trackers or high security locks like today and insuring your caravan cost on average around £12 a year. It was also in this era that several specialist manufacturers such as Vanmaster, Wake and Sapphire produced glass reinforced plastic shells (GRP) that owners could fit out themselves to save money.

40 years of Sprayway John Hunt and Simon Wright The summer of 1974 – Edward Heath was Prime Minister, the miners strike came to an end, a three-day working week was introduced and David Bowie’s Rebel Rebel was topping the charts. Elsewhere; in a small garage in Chorlton; two friends and keen mountaineers saw a gap in the market and an opportunity to produce waterproof clothing for outdoor pursuits for all weather. Sprayway was born.

Other caravan manufacturers produced small lightweight tourers such as Fisher, Victor, Thomson and Europa. These micro tourers were designed to keep caravanning economical for those who had been hit hard by the downturn.

Plus points in ‘74 though were better sites, towing stability, cassette-type loos, easier continental touring and more choice in soft furnishings. So 1974 was certainly an eventful year for tourers!

Bringing the story up to date: a selection of cool jackets from Sprayway.

The ladie’s shikari parka forest

The children’s hawk calypso

The ladies spectre ii black

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regional touring | east anglia

Water, water everywhere

With a maritime history, open fenlands and snowdrop walks, the east of england will get you through winter.

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ith a long, sweeping coastline, it’s little wonder that East Anglia has a rich maritime tradition. But its sea frontage is not the only water in the region.

The area also has a rich agricultural history and the Fens, the East of England’s natural and manmade drainage system that spreads across three of the five counties (Norfolk, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire), provide lots of opportunities for getting out and about to enjoy this unique environment.

With agriculture playing such a large 40

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part in the region’s economy, there are also plenty of opportunities for tasting local produce. The Dengie Peninsula Food Trail, for example, allows you to sample great food and drink while exploring a part of Essex that you otherwise might not have thought to try.

Whichever part of the region you choose to explore, getting out and about is easy with good, open roads. Don’t forget to pack a pair of walking boots or a bicycle to take advantage of the flat landscape.

regional touring | east anglia spectacular ruins of the medieval priory but in February they become even more so for the generous display of snowdrops through the woods and along the banks of the River Stiffkey, which runs through the Abbey grounds. Aconites have mingled with the snowdrops too, breaking up the white carpet with drifts of bright yellow. Almost 20 acres of woodland surrounding the atmospheric abbey ruins are carpeted with these dainty flowers in season; while the tranquil abbey grounds are open daily from April to October, snowdrop walks are available daily throughout February.

Cultural Britain – History and Heritage:

Harwich, Essex The ancient seaport town of Harwich sits at the entrance to a magnificent harbour, which, today, is the UK’s second busiest passenger ferry port. The town features a Maritime Trail encompassing the Ha’Penny Pier Visitor Centre, the Electric Palace Cinema – one of the oldest purpose-built cinemas in the UK, and the anti-Napoleonic circular Harwich Redoubt Fort. Enjoy the town’s narrow medieval streets and many interesting visitor attractions, with over 200 listed buildings that includes the Grade I listed Guildhall, where carvings in the walls made by 18th-century prisoners can still be seen.

Nelson Museum, Norfolk The Nelson Museum in Great Yarmouth is a Grade II listed Georgian Merchant’s House dedicated to the life and times of Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson. From his childhood in Norfolk to his tragic but heroic death at the Battle of Trafalgar, visitors to this lovely museum can discover all about Nelson’s career, horrendous wounds, his mesmerising personality and complicated love life! The museum (www.nelson-museum.co.uk) has something for everyone and children (and adults!) particularly enjoy the Below Decks experience and Maritime Courtyard where they can indulge in a picnic and play sailors’ games. The museum is open daily from February to November, 10am to 4pm weekdays, 1pm to 4pm at weekends.

Main picture: Lincoln Cathedral rises high above Lincoln’s rooftops. Credit: © www.visitlincoln.com Top picture: Harwich Redoubt Fort.

Credit: © www.visitessex.com Top left: Wicken Fen. Top right: The Merton Room at the Nelson Museum.

Bottom right: Wicken Fen.

Family Days Out:

Africa Alive, Suffolk Pretend it’s a baking hot summer day this winter by visiting the African Savannah at Africa Alive (www.africa-alive.co.uk) at Kessingland, near Lowestoft. Among the many animals you can see there are cheetahs, African lions, giraffe, zebras, buffalo, mongoose and white rhinos. The Plains of Africa is an awe-inspiring representation of the African Savannah, where the animals roam freely together as they do in the wild.

The Great Outdoors: To get up close to the animals, join one of the senior animal keepers for a personal guided tour on a Plains of Africa Safari. Elsewhere, meet the aardvarks and meerkats and become an Animal Keeper for a day. A walking safari set in 100 acres, Africa Alive is open daily except Christmas and Boxing Day. Snowdrops walks at Walsingham Abbey, Norfolk The grounds of Walsingham Abbey (www. walsinghamabbey.com) are famous for the

Walking the Wicken Way, Cambridgeshire The Wicken Way passes through a Fenland landscape that encompasses hundreds of years of farming history. Wicken Fen (now a Nature Reserve owned and managed by the National Trust) retains most of the characteristics of undrained fenland while green lanes are reminiscent of the post drainage fens. Medieval strip farming is still practised on No-Ditch-Field while only a mile away on Soham Mere (drained in the 1800’s) the most modern farming methods are used. u Discover Touring

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Ü Discover Where to Stay: Fakenham Racecourse:

A private site, situated on the racecourse, affiliated to the caravan club. useful seful ffor visiting Walsingham Abbey and the snowdrop walks, you can catch a bus from Fakenham to Walsingham. open all year.

Pudding Norton Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 7NY Tel 01328 862388 www.fakenhamraceourse.co.uk

Golden Grove Caravan Park:

Walking the Wicken Way around Wicken you’ll see at first hand some of the finest examples of Cambridgeshire’s farming heritage. Begin from Wicken Fen Nature Reserve car park and turn left towards the Nature Reserve then continue on the track to the left of the Lode opposite the visitors centre to pick up the circular walk. The seven-mile route is signposted from the road by green metal signs and with small coloured waymark arrows along the way, which read “Circular Route”. Most of the walk follows grassy droves that can become muddy in winter, particularly after heavy rain so strong waterproof footwear is essential.

Dengie Peninsula and Food Trail, Essex Imagine a remote countryside edged on three sides by water – two rivers and the sea – and a great expanse of sky, sea and marshland; that is The Dengie Peninsula.

The Dengie Food & Leisure Trail (www.dflt. co.uk) takes you on a journey from farm to farm exploring the historic Dengie Peninsula along the way. You’ll find more than a dozen food and drink producers as you explore the quiet rural lanes and open spaces, which include a petrified oak forest, marshland, a Roman fort and idyllic villages. Farms rearing and selling their own meat, fruit growers, wine producers and cheesemakers are all along the way in addition to farmers’ markets for a veritable feast to be prepared back at your campsite.

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Ü Discover More: www.visitsuffolk.com www.visitnorfolk.co.uk www.visitlincolnshire.com www.visitcambridgeshire.org www.visitessex.com

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A small, family run site for adults only that tries to maintain the ‘innocence’ of camping without being too commercialised. Just nine pitches in six acres of parkland means that there is plenty of space for everyone. open all year.

Piccotts Lane, Great Saling, Braintree, Essex, CM7 5DW Tel 07917 592310 www.salinggrove.com/index.php/ caravan-park

White Lion Caravan Park:

set in picturesque countryside just one minute’s walk from the White Lion restaurant and Pub. electric hook-ups available though own washing/toilet facilities required. open all year. useful ffor visiting Africa Alive.

White Lion Road, Wheatacre Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 0AT Tel 01502 677388 www.whitelionwheatacre.co.uk Left: Fakenham Racecourse Caravan Club Site

Ü Discover Extra – Lincoln: You could say that Lincoln is a city of two halves – a medieval top half situated on top of a hill, and a ‘modern’ (postmedieval) bottom half, located around the river Witham. The hillside area – or cathedral Quarter as it is officially known – is incredibly picturesque, with quiet, narrow streets around Lincoln cathedral, which dominates the skyline, smart town houses and superb views. Below are the cultural Quarter and the pedestrianised High street, filled with international brand shops. connecting the two is the charming steep Hill (truly, it is very steep!), considered one of the best streets in the country. Definitely worth a visit, take your time either walking up or down steep Hill and use the many tiny independent shops and cafes for a breather.

Stay: Hartsholme country Park campsite, Lincoln; www.lincoln.gov.uk/ hartsholmecampsite

Itinerary:

Day 3 – spend a morning climbing steep Hill, wandering from coffee house to tearoom and exploring the numerous little shops. Don’t miss 1158 Jews House along the way. visit Lincoln castle, home to one of four surviving 1215 Magna cartas, for walks around the city walls, towers and grounds. You may be able to take part in one of the many events that take place each year.

Finally, visit the Museum of Lincolnshire Life nearby, a child-friendly social history museum, including the earliest surviving tank.

Stay: Hartsholme country Park campsite, Lincoln; www.lincoln.gov.uk/ hartsholmecampsite

Day 1– Begin with a trip to the Tourist information nf nformation centre in the picturesque castle square to pick up a town map and purchase an explore Lincoln visitor pass. The Tic is in an historic Tudor building worthy of a picture while the visitor pass gives unlimited entry to various attractions – including the cathedral – and a hop-on, hopoff bus tour. explore the impressive cathedral nearby and the beautiful surrounding streets, including Minster Yard. After lunch, drop down to visit the Medieval Bishops’ Palace. An english Heritage property, it’s one of the most impressive Bishops’ houses in england, and there are superb views over the city from the gardens.

Day 2 – enjoy a wander through Hartsholme country Park, where you’ll see the remains of a landscaped park from a grand victorian mansion (sadly now destroyed). Take the bus into Lincoln city centre and tour the High street for some shopping, before visiting the decorative guildhall, site of the roman gateway. Head to Brayford Pool, just off the High street, for a boat trip on the Brayford Belle.

Stay: Hartsholme country Park campsite, Lincoln; www.lincoln.gov.uk/ hartsholmecampsite

Regional TouRing | Wales and BoRdeRs

Forgotten Lands

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cathedral cities, fun on ice, deserted beaches and cider makes Wales and the border counties an appealing region to visit.

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ales is too varied to describe in one paragraph; there is as much variance between its ‘capital’, Cardiff, and Snowdonia or Cardigan Bay as there is between London and the Yorkshire Dales or Cornish sands. In this issue, we’ve focused in particular on South and Mid-Wales, where culture in the big towns combines with ideal touring territory over the Brecon Beacons and the quiet, winding roads of Powys and Ceredigion. Or head to the unspoilt and largely forgotten Gower Peninsula, where walking is a pleasure on vast, sandy beaches and headlands that you’re likely to have to yourself.

Herefordshire and Shropshire are England’s gems, quiet and understated and worth taking the time to explore slowly.

They’re perfect for pottering, making the most of their respective hillsides for sublime views.

Family Days Out:

Winter in Cardiff Instead of a Scotttish Hogmanay, why not celebrate the Welsh Calennig in Cardiff this New Year? The party is kicking off at the City Hall Lawn, home of Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland (www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com) where an open air ice rink offers six weeks of skating (until first week of January), Ice Café Bar and giant wheel add to the spectacle. There’s midnight skating on New Year’s Eve in addition to fireworks and a free live music stage.

Cardiff ’s Winter Wonderland begins in November though with the switch on of the Christmas lights, entertainment and numerous Christmas markets. Father Christmas makes a regular appearance too!

Events in Mid-Wales There are always lots of things to do in MidWales throughout the year, but events coming

Regional TouRing | Wales and BoRdeRs Main picture: Three Cliffs Bay, Gower Peninsula. Credit: ©Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales Bottom left: The Ice Rink in Cardiff’s city centre, a part of the Winter Wonderland programme.

Top right: Rheidol Railway, Aberystwyth.

Middle left: Hereford Cathedral houses many art treasures, including the significant Mappa Mundi.

Middle right: Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower Peninsula. Credit: ©Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

up soon include the Halloween Ghost Trains on the Vale of Rheidol Railway (www.rheidolrailway.co.uk). Trains depart from Aberystwyth from 31st October to 2nd November 2013. Further east, in Powys, the Hay-on-Wye Winter Food Festival, taking place on 30th November 2013, is now in its 6th year. Over 50 producers will be present in a marquee in the town with farmers’ market stalls outside. The emphasis will be on quality, local produce.

Cultural Britain – History and Heritage:

Land of Lost Content, Shropshire If you often find yourself commenting, “I remember”, head to the Land of Lost Content in Craven Arms, Shropshire. This is the National Museum of Popular Culture (www.lolc.org.uk), a personal hoarding of objects and ‘stuff ’ collected over 45 years by owner and curator Stella Mitchell.

Organised into 32 themed sections, such as Travel and Transport, Pop Style, Nursery Years and Confectionary – even Office Equipment (remember the typewriter?), you’ll find plenty to reminisce about as you wander through the museum. Stella’s personal touches, including handwritten commentaries throughout, are clearly apparent. Don’t rush a visit to this museum, it needs time for pondering and discovering everything from the everyday and ordinary that has been forgotten.

Hereford Cathedral, Herefordshire Hereford Cathedral (www.herefordcathedral. org), on the River Wye, is built on a place of worship that has been used since Saxon times. The building today contains some of the finest examples of art and architecture from Norman times to the present day, including the 13th century shrine of St Thomas of Hereford, the recently restored 14th century Lady Chapel, the painted and gilded shrine to St Ethelbert and the newly commissioned Thomas Traherne stained glass windows, dedicated to Hereford’s 17th century poet and cleric.

The award winning New Library Building houses the internationally famous Mappa Mundi, the largest surviving known medieval map of the world, and the cathedral’s unique Chained Library has the oldest book (the Anglos Saxon Gospels) dating from the 8th century. The interpretive exhibition tells the

stories of these treasures through changing displays and tactile models.

The Great Outdoors:

The Gower Peninsula In 1956, The Gower was named the very first ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ in the UK by the Countryside Agency and it is not difficult to see why. Its stunning rugged coastline boasts some of the cleanest water in Europe, and with the Gulf Stream keeping the water warm, the Gower is a tempting place to take a sea dip. The spectacular, isolated and brooding landscape also makes the Gower perfect for rambling walks, country cycling or even horse riding along the golden sands.

Despite all this, the Gower has remained one of Wales’ best-kept secrets and is all the better for it.

Visitors to the area should make straight for Rhossili, which has been described on numerous occasions as one of the best beaches in the UK. Here, the dramatic Rhossili Downs tower over a huge expanse of sandy beach that stretches for three miles. Towards the end of the peninsula is Worm’s Head – a mile long snake-like promontory jutting out into the sea that gets cut off when the tide comes in.

For the best panoramic views, walkers should head for the top of the Downs where they will be able to see for miles in each direction. u Discover Touring

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Regional TouRing | Wales and BoRdeRs Hergest Ridge, Herefordshire and Powys A long and dramatic hump that dominates the skyline from ‘ground level’, Hergest Ridge (pronounced ‘Harghest’) traverses the border between England and Wales. At 1,397 feet at its highest point, walking along the top is often a blustery affair, but the views across Wales and other Herefordshire hills are worthy of the climb. The long distance Offa’s Dyke Trail follows the spine of the hill, taking walkers directly into the centre of Kington, a quiet market town at the foot of the Ridge. Mike Oldfield, composer of 1970s classic ‘Tubular Bells’ wrote an album ‘Hergest Ridge’ named after the hill; he owned a house overlooking it.

Towns and Villages:

Bridgnorth, Shropshire Bridgnorth, in reality, is two towns: the High Town (good views down) and the Low Town (good views up). For over 120 years Bridgnorth Cliff Railway, the steepest inland funicular railway in Britain, has been transporting people up and down the 111 feet sandstone cliffs that separate the two.

Explore the independent shops of Bridgnorth (www.visitbridgnorth.co.uk) and enjoy a stroll around the town, stopping at the Castle Gardens. What’s left of the Castle leans at an alarming angle, even greater than the Tower of Pisa. Nearby, in the village of Quatt, is Dudmaston Hall, a late 17th Century mansion with art collection and lakeside garden.

Cider Route, Herefordshire Cider making has been a part of Herefordshire since Lord Scudamore stopped foraging crab apples and introduced beautiful apple orchards to the county thus kick-starting the cider making industry in England. An appealing way of exploring the county’s villages is by following the Cider Route (www.cirderroute.co.uk). You can taste cider and perry straight from the cask, wander in the orchards, experience production techniques as well as exploring by bicycle on the Cider Cycling Routes. Make the most of meeting many artisan cider makers too at the Flavours of Herefordshire Festival (www. flavoursofherefordshirefestival.co.uk) on the 2nd and 3rd November.

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Top: Hergest Ridge, Herefordshire.

Credit: ©Caroline Mills Middle: Bridgnorth Castle.

Credit: © www.shropshiretourism.co.uk

Ü Discover More: www.visitwales.com www.shropshiretourism.co.uk www.shropshirecaravanandcamping.co.uk www.visitherefordshire.co.uk

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Bottom left: Pitton Cross.

Bottom right: Poston Mill.

Ü Discover Where to Stay: Pitton Cross:

one of few campsites on the gower Peninsula that remain open all year, Pitton cross is the only site near rhossili and Worm’s Head. The gower Kite shop is situated on site.

Rhossili, Gower, Swansea, SA3 1PH Tel 01792 390593 www.pittoncross.co.uk

Stanmore Hall Touring Park:

set in 12 ½ acres of landscaped grounds with lawns and mature trees, open all year, stanmore Hall is an affiliated caravan club site.

Hardstanding pitches surround a central lake and an adults-only section is provided.

Stourbridge Road, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV15 6DT Tel 01746 761761 www.caravanclub.co.uk

Poston Mill:

set in the beautiful golden valley v next to the river Dore, there is plenty of gentle scenery to admire and plenty of activities on site from fishing, riverside nature trails, croquet and a 9-hole ‘pitch ‘n putt’ golf course. open all year.

Peterchurch, Golden Valley, Hereford, HR2 0SF Tel 01981 550225 www.bestparks.co.uk

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Tel: 0191 2064143 email:sales@woodlandbond.co.uk www.woodlandbond.co.uk

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aCTiViTY | CYCling

WHEELY GOOD

Whether it’s popping to the bakers for baguettes, taking a gentle, scenic whirl along country lanes or pumping competitive power uphill, cycling goes hand in hand with camping.

Main picture: The Wiggle Dragon Ride in South Wales. Credit: ©Human Race Events right: With a choice of three distances, the Wiggle Dragon Ride involves some steep climbs.

Credit: ©Human Race Events

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o the boulangerie – the one with all those spectacular looking breakfast treats – is just a little too far to walk first thing in the morning; your campsite is located in a spectacular location and you’d like to explore the area without jumping into the driver’s seat; or your exercise routine involves rigorous hill-climbs in Lycra. Whatever your outlook, cycling is one of the pleasures accessible from your ‘van. On these pages, with competition cycling becoming ever more popular, we look at a scenic competition ride through Wales.

There’s also a peek at cycling for those who fancy a less energetic pop to the shops, and a ‘how to’ guide to transporting your bikes.

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Riding the Dragon

Starting in the stunning Margam Country Park, South Wales, the Wiggle Dragon Ride is one of the leading sportives in the UK, which, in 2013, involved more than 4,000 riders from all over Britain. Offering three distances, the Ride passes through the beautiful Brecon Beacons and involves some steep hill climbs.

Now in its 11th year, the Ride attracts a mix of experienced cyclists and newcomers to the sport who are looking for a good challenge. Many riders relish the opportunity to tackle the long, steep hills of the Welsh mountains, giving riders

relentless climbing on some tough points of the course, while lots of participants, including some famous faces, take the opportunity to raise money for charity.

The Wiggle Dragon Ride is run by Human Race, the UK’s largest and most diverse mass participation events company, and offers the very best in road safety, marshalling, en-route signage and mechanical support.

The 2014 event takes place in June (date yet to be announced), though online entries open on 10th October 2013. u

aCTiViTY | CYCling Electric Dreams

Bikes on the back

Cheating? Never. if your legs are telling you that high-speed races are long behind you – or they never have been your thing – but you still like the idea of a leisurely bike ride or a speedier way to nip to the shops, electric bicycles could be your solution. Who does like having to get off and push at the slightest incline, because the gears (and your fitness levels) can’t muster up the energy to reach the top?

Perhaps you fancy cycling unaided one way to buy the croissants, but might like a little bit of assistance on the return to the campsite. or you like the thought of being able to go a little further on a bike ride to see a great view than you otherwise could under your own pedal power. switching on a battery to ride the bike when your own battery is flagging sounds good.

Yes, it’s sometimes possible to squeeze a bike into the rear garage of a motorhome, if the garage is large enough, and it’s possible to ‘park’ a bike in a caravan while towing. often the safest and most secure way, for both the bikes and the interior of your ‘van, is by using an external bike rack.

Pick up a copy of the Spring/Summer 2014 issue of Discover Touring, due out in February, which will feature a review of electric/battery powered bikes.

Below: Cycling on Dunwich Heath, Suffolk.

Credit: ©Visit Britain/Rod Edwards/Choose Suffolk

Fiamma (www.fiamma.com) are one of the largest manufacturers of bike racks under their brand carry-Bike.

Made of a sturdy but lightweight construction, the carryBike can be attached to the rear wall or A-frame of caravans, the rear of almost any motorhome or van conversion.

An alternative is the sawiko range of Load carriers, supplied by AL-Ko (www.al-ko.co.uk) for motorhome users to transport their cycles, scooters, e-bikes and other loads safely and securely. The carrier systems are mounted directly to the chassis of the motorhome, distributing the weight evenly across the width of the vehicle and require no wall mountings or fixing. The lowered platform position enables easy loading of scooters and cycles.

Below: Fiamma’s Carry-Bike can be attached to almost any motorhome, including smaller van conversions and caravans. Credit: ©Fiamma

Ü Discover Where to Stay: Brynhyfryd Camping & Caravanning:

A small and friendly rural campsite run by campers, ten minutes from Margam country Park.

Brynhyfryd, Fford-y-Gyfraith, Cefn Cribbwr, Bridgend, CF32 0BS Tel 01656 740544 www.brynhyfrydcampingcaravanning.co.uk

Ian Meikle and son Calum both took part in the 2013 event.

Here Calum picks up the story:

“On Sunday June 9th, 2013, my dad and I cycled the Wiggle Dragon Ride.

There were three choices of distance: the Cycletta (Women’s only ride, 38km), the Mediofondo (128km) and the Grandfondo (210km). We chose to do the Mediofondo.

The sportive started at Margam Country Park, a great location, near Port Talbot. There was plenty of room to park and get ready before rolling to the start line where we only had to wait for a few minutes before setting off. The Dragon Ride took us through some spectacular scenery in South Wales and is famed for its climbs, culminating in the villages of Rhigos and Bwlch. The weather was beautiful and the countryside was at its best. All the feed stations were well stocked and the whole event was well organised. I was probably one of the youngest cyclists there, having only just turned sixteen, but it was a great introduction to organised sportives.”

Ü Discover More: Human race events www.humanrace.co.uk/cycling visit neath Port Talbot (the start location of the Dragon ride) www.visitnpt.co.uk www.margamcountrypark.co.uk

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plaCe in foCus | noRTh Wales

Big and Bold Main picture: Snowdonia National Park. Credit: ©Caroline Mills

incorporating Wales’ largest national park, largest island, tallest high ropes adventure and longest zip line, there’s something to be said for going large in north Wales.

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national park rather than a county, there’s no doubt that Snowdonia National Park, which incorporates parts of Conwy, Denbighshire and Gwynedd, is Wales’ adventure playground. Nine conjoined mountain ranges cover almost 52% of the National Park, which itself covers a total of 823 square miles. While Mount Snowdon, at 3,560 feet (1,085m) may be the focal point, it is the national park’s diverse landscape, with glacial valleys, steep gorges, woodlands and sandy beaches that make it special. Every conceivable action-packed activity is possible in Snowdonia, including the Tree Top Adventure (www. ttadventure.co.uk), with its high ropes course, giving visitors the opportunity to parade through the trees at 100 feet from the ground.

Zip World’s (www.zipworld.co.uk) Big Zipper, which opened in March 2013, is now the Northern Hemisphere’s longest and quickest zip line too – with users clocking speeds in excess of 100mph.

Flintshire: Explore fascinating towns

such as Mold with its street market and food and drink festival, Holywell the home of St Winefrides Well, one of the Seven Wonders of Wales, Flint with its medieval castle and market and Caerwys, considered to be one of the smallest towns with a Royal Charter.

Flintshire’s sites of historical interest include the Grade 1 listed St Deiniols Library in Hawarden. Considered as one of Britain’s finest residential libraries, it was founded by Prime Minister William Gladstone in 1889.

Or visit Basingwerk Cistercian Abbey alongside Greenfield Valley Heritage Park, a fascinating mix of mills and reservoirs charting the industrial past. There is also a strong sense of culture and arts. Clwyd Theatr Cymru at Mold is one of Wales’ major drama-producing theatre and arts centre.

Anglesey: Ynys Môn is the Welsh name for Anglesey, Wales’ largest island, accessed via the Britannia Bridge or its famous neighbour, the Menai Suspension Bridge, an ironwork feat of engineering designed by Thomas Telford in 1826. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with the island’s interior – it contains some very picturesque farmland – but it’s Anglesey’s entire coastline that is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The east and west coasts of the island contain the sandy beaches; the north coast, a wild and craggy isolated shoreline that’s generally deserted and worthy of a visit. Try the 125-mile Anglesey Coast Path, which circumnavigates the entire island; it provides walkers with some spectacular walking territory.

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Ü Discover More: www.visitwales.com www.eryri-npa.gov.uk www.discoverdenbighshire.co.uk www.visitflintshire.com www.visitanglesey.co.uk

Ü Discover Where to Stay: Gwern Gof Isaf Farm:

on a working hill farm, the campsite area is based around the farmhouse. one of the oldest campsites in north Wales (opened in 1906), with spectacular views. open all year.

Capel Curig, Betws-y-Coed Conwy, LL24 0EU Tel 01690 720276 www.gwerngofisaf.co.uk

Gloch Caravan & Camping Park:

A large, well-run site that is immaculately kept. The various camping areas are divided by mature hedges and walls. superb views of snowdonia. open all year.

Betws Garmon, Caernarfon Gwynedd, LL54 7YY Tel 01286 650216 www.bryngloch.co.uk

Cae Ffynnon Camping & Caravan Park

A family run campsite located in the centre of a small village, just three miles from the town of Amlwch. Well situated for Anglesey’s east coast beaches. open all year.

Rhosgoch, Amlwch, Anglesey, LL66 0AB Tel 01407 830998 www.cae-ffynnon.co.uk

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Regional TouRing | noRTheRn england

Northern Highlights Trekking with llamas, classic film locations and lesser-known beauty spots of the north help to create a diverse region.

Main image: Alderley Edge, Cheshire.

Credit: ©Visit Britain/Rod Edwards Top left: Llama Trekking with Nidderdale Llamas.

Bottom left: It’s possible to visit Concorde at the Runway Visitor Centre, Manchester Airport.

Top right: The Magical Mystery Tour bus, which takes visitors around sites in Liverpool connected with The Beatles.

Middle: The National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port, Cheshire.

Bottom right: Cyclists in Hamsterley Forest.

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iversity is the foremost word to describe such a vast region as the North of England. It includes some of Britain’s most vibrant and cultured cities such as Manchester and Liverpool and yet has a rural spectrum of moors, dales, fells and, simply, hills depending upon which part of the region you happen to find yourself.

Crossing the Pennines, the long backbone of the north, you’ll encounter an assortment of local dialects and pronunciation. They come with a friendly welcome from the people of the north, eager to share their little bit of landscape with you.

Family Days Out:

Llama trekking in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire Nidderdale Llamas (www.nidderdalellamas.org) is based at Kiln Farm in Wilsill, a tiny hillside village between Pateley Bridge and Summerbridge in the Yorkshire Dales.

Suzanne Benson, who fell in love with llamas when she discovered their intelligent and loving character, runs the treks. Llamas are for walking with rather than riding; they carry your belongings while they amble along at a pace set by you. Other than short walks around the farm, the llamas are trekked along footpaths and bridleways

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in the area. You can learn about the llamas as you trek but, because of the slow pace, Suzanne points out the beauty of the Dales as you go, including a few nature notes. Part way through the trek, the llamas are given their break and you get the refreshments that they have been so considerately carrying for you. Prior booking is essential as Suzanne tailors each trek accordingly to the walkers; therefore, it is not possible to simply turn up to the farm unannounced.

Planespotting in Manchester If you are looking for an action-packed and adrenalin-fuelled day out for all the family, then take to the skies and head to Runway Visitor Park (www.runwayvisitorpark. co.uk) at Manchester Airport. The Park is home to five aircraft to explore and discover, including the legendary Concorde; other aircraft are the Nimrod, the DC-10, Trident and the Avro RJX. Hop inside and take a look at these magnificent machines and learn about how they got off the ground and what it would have been like to be a passenger. Take to the cockpit; children can become pilots at the controls. There’s a play area and restaurant too.

The Runway Visitor Park is also in a prime spot for incredible 180˚ views across the

Regional TouRing | noRTheRn england

airfield at Manchester Airport, where you can take in hundreds of air movements each day with aircraft such as the giant Airbus A380 and the new Dreamliner departing and arriving.

Cultural Britain – History and Heritage:

Following The Beatles, Merseyside Perfect for fans of The Beatles, the Magical Mystery Tour leaves from Gower Street within the Albert Dock in Liverpool and lasts for two hours. Aboard a psychedelic yellow bus, the tour introduces visitors to the lives of The Beatles, their homes, schools, birthplaces, Penny Lane, Strawberry Field and many other landmarks, finishing at the world famous Cavern Club in Mathew Street, the birthplace of The Beatles and where live music continues to be performed daily. Cavern City Tours (www.cavernclub. org) operate the Magical Mystery Tour, Cavern Club, Cavern Pub, and organise the annual International Beatleweek Festival.

National Waterways Museum, Cheshire Head back to the Victorian era at the Ellesmere Port base of the National Waterways Museum (www.nwm.org.uk).

Designed by Thomas Telford under the direction of William Jessop, the docks at Ellesmere Port were still in use as late as the 1950s. They were a marvellously selfcontained world and when you visit the museum today you can still walk round its locks, docks and warehouses and visit

its forge, stables and workers’ cottages.

Museums are housed in the old waterside buildings and there are beautifully painted narrowboats to explore. Visitors can also take great value boat trips along the canal through the industrial landscape. Open daily except Christmas Day to 2nd January.

The Great Outdoors:

Cycling in Hamsterley Forest, County Durham Step into Hamsterley Forest (www.forestry.gov.uk/hamsterleyforest) and you step into nature itself. The largest forest in Durham, mixed woodland covers more than 2,000 hectares, sprawling along the sides of a sheltered valley, offering visitors a wide range of activities to enthrall and excite, or to relax and unwind.

The adrenalin-pumping mountain bike trails have been a key feature of the forest for some time. Developed by the Hamsterley Trailblazers, there are currently three official routes: Blue (moderate), Red (difficult) and Black (expert), all of which are clearly waymarked with colour-coded marker posts.

The first sections of the blue and red routes are suitable for beginners.

Additionally, ‘The Loop’ is a skills development circuit that includes features such as rock gardens and obstacles. Features are graded from blue to black, helmets must be worn, and this circuit in particular is not suitable for occasional or family cyclists.

The forest is home to other activities such

as walking and horse riding and has been host to the RAC rally over many years. Durham Fell Runners are active in the forest, with regular events starting at the Visitor Centre.

Alderley Edge, Cheshire Alderley Edge is a wide red sandstone escarpment situated above the village of Nether Alderley in Cheshire. Formed partly by the weathering of resistant sandstone lying on top of softer sandstone, the dramatic escarpment has impressive views over the Cheshire Plain to the Peak District.

Wander along woodland paths and discover the highest point on the Edge, which was originally a Bronze Age burial mound.

Owned by the National Trust (www.nationaltrust.org.uk), the escarpment has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its geological interest. You can find out about the legends associated with wizardry while you’re there too.

Towns and Villages:

Whitby, North Yorkshire A delightful seaside town with a lively traditional fishing port, Whitby is one of the places in England to sample u Discover Touring

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Regional TouRing | noRTheRn england

Ü Discover Where to Stay: fish and chips – and there are plenty of restaurants offering a delectably fresh fish supper. At the mouth of the River Esk, and on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, the town is renowned for being the point from which Captain James Cook set sail on his exploratory voyages, and for its associations with Bram Stoker’s gothic novel, Dracula.

Whitby’s most famous landmarks, however, are St Mary’s Church and the ruins of Whitby Abbey, high on the cliffside above the town.

Both are well worth climbing the famous steps for sweeping views along the coast.

Carnforth, Lancashire Carnforth will forever be famous for being the film location for David Lean’s classic film ‘Brief Encounter’. To find out more about the film, visit Carnforth Station Heritage Centre and discover the fascinating history of Carnforth – its contribution to the World Wars, its important railway history and its families and community. Whilst there you can visit the wonderful recreation of the tea rooms seen in the film where their tasty food will offer a romantic taste of days gone by.

The famous Carnforth station clock can still be seen above the platform and provides an excellent photo opportunity.

Carnforth makes an ideal base for a tour of the immediate area, such as nearby Leighton Hall or the Lancaster Canal, which passes through the town, or as a gateway to places further afield like Lancaster and the Lake District. Warton Crag, ideal for hiking, climbing and abseiling, is nearby, or explore the picturesque villages within the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

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Lound House Farm:

A quiet site, three miles from Whitby, with sweeping views of the coastline and town below. open all year, the site is ideal when visiting Whitby or exploring the north York Moors.

Littlebeck Lane, Whitby, North Yorkshire; Tel 01947 810383

Below: Lound House Farm.

Capesthorne Hall Caravan Park:

recently redeveloped, the site has 50 spacious pitches in a picturesque tranquil setting located in the grounds of a magnificent Jacobean stately home. With idyllic woodland walks and formal lakeside gardens, it’s a wonderful site to relax. There’s a brand new eco-friendly amenity block that’s heated by solar panels, with spacious shower cubicles and disabled facilities.

Capesthorne Hall, Siddington, Cheshire, SK11 9JY; Tel 01625 861221; www.capesthorne.com

Below: Capesthorne Hall Caravan Park.

Old Hall Caravan Park:

A quiet site where visitors can get away from everyday life, while still being within a convenient distance of the motorway, Lake District and Yorkshire Dales. open to tourers and seasonal caravans. good facilities and hardstanding pitches.

Capernwray, Carnforth, Lancs, LA6 1AD; Tel 01524 733276; www.oldhallcaravanpark.co.uk

Top: Old Hall Caravan Park.

Ü Discover More: Top: Whitby, North Yorkshire.

Credit: ©Caroline Mills Bottom: Leighton Hall, just outside Carnforth is open to visitors.

Credit: ©www. visitlancashire.com

www.visitnorthumberland.com www.visitcheshire.com www.thisisdurham.com www.golakes.co.uk www.visitlancashire.com www.yorkshire.com www.visitmanchester.com www.visitliverpool.com

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Review | globebus

COLOuR Coordination Armed with a ‘van that turns heads, Discover Touring tested Dethleffs’ globebus i4, an A-class that’s suitable for the A-list.

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s designs go, Dethleffs’ Globebus I4 is certainly worthy of the catwalk.

Sleek and slender, this A-class turns heads everywhere she goes. Our test ‘van was ‘dressed’ in ‘Cacao Grey’ (actually a sandy brown rather than grey) although other colours available include metallic silver, white and ‘laguna blue’. Wrap around windows, synonymous with A-class design, provide a vast outlook on the world, perfect for cruising and surveying a view.

Entering through the sturdy, arched living area door – another feature that demonstrates thought in its design – internal style is immediately evident, with colour coordinating upholstery and décor.

To the rear are two single beds, accessed via a step. It’s a cosy sleeping area with plenty of surrounding storage, though the height gained in order to allow a decentsized garage and cupboards (including a half-height wardrobe) below, may cause problems for those who wish to sit upright in bed. The two singles can be made into a transverse double, but again anyone over 6’ in height may have issue with the width of the ‘van (and therefore length of the bed).

There is no issue, however, with how comfy either of these beds are or the drop-down double at the front of the ‘van. Quick and simple to manoeuvre into position, the dropdown bed requires both captain’s chairs to be folded down, which does mean that the living area is then unable to be fully utilised.

Ready, steady, cook

A small galley kitchen provides a 100l fridge with freezer compartment, a combination oven and grill plus three-burner hob and small sink.

What the kitchen woefully lacks is preparation space, although the living area table could be used if required. This may be ample for two, but cooking for four would push the kitchen to its limits.

Likewise, the shower/toilet combination works reasonably well but we’d have preferred to separate the two for ease of use if four people are all utilising the facilities.

Final verdict

For owners that are looking for style and quality in design as well as manufacture, the Globebus I4 fits well. It’s living area suggests that this is a ‘van for two, with occasional added guests, while making use of washroom facilities on campsites and cooking outdoors whenever possible.

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From top to bottom: The overall design, with its two-tone colour scheme and graphics, is certainly a head-turner and pleasing to the eye.

The washroom and toilet area are combined.

The basin is connected to a panel, which swings into position to create the shower area. The basin tap then becomes the shower tap.

The kitchen area includes a complete oven/ grill combination and 100-litre fridge with freezer compartment. There is limited storage for kitchen equipment.

The sleeping area to the rear is cosy, with plenty of storage space above, and a useful, central, shelf area for that essential morning cup of tea.

Both the front passenger’s and driver’s chair swivel to create a larger living area, although persons seated on the driver’s chair would struggle to reach the table for mealtimes, unless the table extension is used.

Ü Technical Data Guide price: £65,000 Berths 4 seat belts 4 Profile type A-class overall length 6.75m overall width 2.15m overall height 2.62m Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM) 3499kg Mass in running order (Miro) 2909kg Payload 590kg (approx) Basic engine Fiat Ducato 2.3JTD

On the road

It’s while driving that the Globebus I4 really comes into its own. Stunning to handle, the six-speed gearbox and 130bhp engine gobble up the miles with ease, allowing you to arrive feeling relaxed and ready to enjoy the I4’s living quarters.

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Ü Discover More: www.dethleffs.co.uk

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Review | lifesTyle 696

Five go mad in Dorset

Author: John Piggott

A family of five take to the road in a Lifestyle 696 as supplied by Marquis Motorhomes and find some space to breathe and relax.

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eing a keen cyclist, I decided to ride to Northampton to collect the new Swift Lifestyle 696 motorhome that I would be reviewing for Discover Touring this year, making use of the Nene Valley Cycle Way, as well as taking in the charming Northampton ring road. Being summer and this being England, I was of course rewarded with a downpour of Old Testament proportions, aggressive motorists and a moody, confused SatNav. What is it with me and SatNavs?

I made a sorry sight as I dripped into the reception at the Marquis dealership, where the friendly staff made me a coffee, before giving me a briefing on the motorhome controls and the keys to the Swift. A quick inspection confirmed my expectations; the finishes are all of a very high quality and the presentation by Marquis is immaculate.

The bad news is that I am about to park my squelchy wet cycling shorts in the driver’s 58

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seat. The good news is that I brought a carrier bag to sit on. Am I a classy journalist or what?

Ideal for us

W the test team, are a family of five, with We children aged 9, 13 and 15, so the layout of the 696 is ideal for us. There are permanent bunk beds at the rear and the usual double bed over the cab, which means that most of the berths are at the extremities, which should keep the living and cooking space relatively traffic free in the evenings. There is perhaps not quite as much cupboard space as I would like, but there is a big cargo hold under the lower bunk, so it’s really just a question of us being well organised when loading up. The bunk beds reduce the rear visibility quite a bit, but I rarely found myself using the rear view mirror anyway, as the side mirrors give so much coverage. The van is well heated and nice and light inside making

the interior feel bigger than it really is.

With my wet bike neatly stowed in the hold, I set off to collect the family, load up our gear and head off to Dorset, where we would be spending the next week. The Lifestyle is a big van but it really does not feel like it on the road. It is both quiet and comfortable and handles very easily, even when fully laden. It is also very economical; the complete round trip of 350 miles costing just £60 in diesel. The journey to our campsite at Moreton passed quickly, even with the inevitable traffic on the motorway.

We arrived to find a quiet, level pitch next to sheltering woodland, so close to a pub that you would swear that I planned it that way.

Loss of appetite

The thought of cooking for five in a motorhome usually gives me a feeling of dread and a loss of appetite, but the kitchen

Review | lifesTyle 696

area in the Swift really makes the best of what is (let’s face it) a pretty confined space. The cooker and fridge are both excellent and provided the van is level, cooking is very easy.

There isn’t much room for pots and pans, but the layout of the van is such that the kitchen is out of the way of the living space, apart from the loo. Just tell the kids to think of England whilst food preparation is underway. Having eaten and unpacked, we set off to explore this beautiful part of Dorset and meet up with some friends who were on the same site.

Moreton is ideally placed for touring the south coast, with a local train station that makes visits to the seaside fun and very easy. Beds assembled, we turned in and looked forward to hitting the beach tomorrow.

We took the train to Weymouth next day, where the weather was superb and the beach was as packed as a tin of really small fish. Sand castles, coffee, ice cream, chips, more coffee; I won’t bore you with the details. We ambled home that evening, happy, sandy and a bit sunburned, for a barbeque and a little light refreshment. Now, what is it about camping that makes a British chap convinced he is an outdoor chef?

The smell of charred meat and the “ftsss” of beer cans opening must do something to our brains. So, my eyebrows singed but feeling thoroughly contented and oblivious to the children’s anguished faces as they chewed through their blackened sausages, I drifted off into my own happy little world; dreaming of bike races and yellow jerseys.

Day 2: Rain. Ha! No surprises there. Time to put the wet weather plan into action! Out came the board games and paperbacks, whilst Mrs P and I donned running shoes and went for a surprisingly pleasant slosh through the woodland tracks criss-crossing Moreton. Virtue satisfied, we settled down to play games for the rest of the day, cosy in our lovely new Swift, trying not to snigger at the poor souls in tents.

It’s hard to be humble when you have the newest van on the site though. The awning gave us a dry storage area and it coped with the weather pretty well, there being no wind. I am not a big fan of lightweight ‘roof only’ awnings, preferring something I can nail down properly, but on this site it worked

a treat and to be fair it only took seconds to put away when we left.

The rain had passed by next day and so we continued our quest for ice cream and coffee shops, taking in the stunning Durdle Door cliffs and the fascinating Corfe Castle. The latter was complete with archers, wood smoke, a goodly dose of ‘hey-nonny-nonny’ and various maniacs with swords demonstrating their medieval maiming skills. Top drawer British lunacy and all volunteers, apparently. I just hope they are fully insured and that the Dorset police know where they live.

Stinky trainers

Now, spending a week in a van can get challenging if the place fills up with sand and stinky trainers, but having learned our lesson on previous trips, we managed to keep the van pretty clean as we went along. The cargo hold under the lower bunk is accessed from an external door, so stowing damp or sandy gear away from the living area is quite easy. This also made a big difference when it came to packing the van up, as we could segregate the clean and the grotty stuff. As a result, cleaning the van up at the end of the trip probably took no more than an hour of our lives, which is pretty remarkable for five people after a week in the outdoors. Up to six people can belt up (if only) in this van so we had plenty of space, with the kids making use of the dining table to play games on the way home.

So overall, our impression of the Swift Lifestyle was excellent. It has a very comfortable living space, even when heavy rain forced us to stay inside for longer than we would normally stay sane. It really is a joy to drive and the design is well thought through so I’ll give this van a big ‘thumbs up’.

So as the chaps at Marquis prized the keys out of my hand at the end of the week and I wheeled out my bike, I found myself wondering if I could follow next year’s Tour de France in one of these... Now there’s a plan.

More information can be found at: www.marquismotorhomes.co.uk

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regional touring | Scotland

No Place like Home

scotland welcomes the world in 2014 for the Year of Homecoming.

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cotland will welcome the world in 2014, with a year-long programme of events and festivals, celebrating the very best of Scottish food and drink, Scotland’s outstanding active and natural resources, as well as creativity, culture and ancestral heritage.

The exciting line-up of events will highlight everything great that Scotland has to offer. The programme will run from the 31st December 2013 until the 31st December 2014, and has a wide range of events, festivals and activities throughout the country to suit all tastes. So whether you have Scottish ancestry or you 60

Discover Touring

simply love all that is great about Scotland, 2014 is the time to visit.

Family Days Out:

Edinburgh’s age-old residents Visit The Real Mary King’s Close (www.realmarykingsclose.com) to experience how your ancestors would have lived. This five-star visitor attraction gives an insight as to what life would have been like for those living in Edinburgh’s Old Town from the 16th to 19th centuries. Bringing Edinburgh’s hidden history to life, visitors can experience

a warren of hidden ‘closes’ or narrow streets where real people lived, worked, died and lay forgotten and covered over by the City Chambers on the Royal Mile for centuries.

A unique, underground time capsule, visitors are able to meet one-time Scottish residents of the Close, each of whom are played by character tour guides. Extensive guide research has uncovered characters from Edinburgh’s history that travelled from much further afield to take residence in Scotland.

Open all year, the attraction hosts many seasonal events.

regional touring | Scotland

Main picture: The conical mountain of Schiehallion from the small road beside Loch Rannoch, Perthshire. Credit: ©P.Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint Top left: Real Mary King’s Close, Edinburgh.

Top right: Members of the Wallace Clan take part in the Clansmen’s Tug of War Competition at the Lonach Highland Gathering and Games, Strathdon, Aberdeenshire.

Credit: ©(©P.Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint Bottom right: A woman examines documents in New Register House in Edinburgh city centre. Credit: ©P.Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint

Meet the ancestors Researching your ancestry (www.ancestralscotland.com) can be very rewarding but nothing compares to experiencing first-hand the places they lived and worked. Bring the past to life with Scotland’s rich array of genealogical resources. Receive a friendly welcome when you visit one of the family history centres or historical buildings around the country.

Or why not visit a clan gathering? Millions of people around the world claim Scottish descent, but do you know which clan or

family you belong to? There are many clan and family associations around the world and lots will be gathering at ‘home’ in Scotland to celebrate their ancestral heritage in 2014.

These include the Highland Games and the Highland Homecoming in Inverness, uniting Gaelic speakers and celebrating Gaelic culture.

Cultural Britain – History and Heritage:

Rich tapestry of life The Scottish Diaspora Tapestry (www.scottishdiasporatapestry.org) has been

created over the last two years by volunteers in 25 countries around the world, depicting the experiences of migrant Scots over the centuries. Each country has supplied stories of their Scottish connections and local volunteer stitchers to embroider up to 10 tapestry panels per nation. Over 200 embroidered panels will come together in February 2014 and tour the country until November, as part of Homecoming Scotland. The programme of events will range from large-scale exhibitions and performance festivals to much smaller, community-based celebrations.

Celtic Connections, Glasgow As part of Homecoming Scotland 2014, Celtic Connections (www.celticconnections. com), which is now in its 21st year, will stage a special one-off collaboration in an exciting new large-scale venue in Glasgow (yet to be announced as Discover Touring went to press).

Featuring the best musical talent coming home to Scotland, the evening is sure to be unforgettable.

During the festival, taking place from 16th January 2014 to 2nd February, approximately 2,100 musicians from around the world will descend on Glasgow for 18 days of concerts, ceilidhs, talks, art exhibitions, workshops, free events, late night sessions and a host of special one-off musical collaborations. u Discover Touring

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regional touring | Scotland The Great Outdoors:

Festival of Paddlesport, Perthshire Part of Homecoming Scotland 2014, the Festival of Paddlesport, or An Feis Mor, (www.canoescotland.com) will include the ever popular annual Canoe Show featuring all the latest equipment, as well as talks and workshops covering everything from getting into the sport through to extreme expeditions round the globe.

The Canoe Polo tournament and Pool Slalom competitions will provide energy and entertainment and the Tay Descent takes place with hundreds of boats making the journey down the rapids to Perth. The National Indoor Kayak Championships provides the opportunity to test your speed and stamina and race against Olympians as well as your friends and family.

Unwind at the Saturday evening ceilidh where you can enjoy great live music and Scottish food. The event takes place from 25th to 26th October 2014.

Run, run, run The Baxters Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of Running (www.lochnessmarathon.com) will feature an exciting enhanced programme of activity alongside the popular Loch Ness Marathon with 10K, 5K, Wee Nessie races and the Baxters Food and Drink Fayre.

Don’t miss the Run Home Tartan Challenges, which will encourage as many runners as possible to wear a kilt or tartan in the marathon. The Run Home Whisky Festival will showcase Scotland’s national drink with tastings, talks and demonstrations to the thousands of runners coming from across Scotland, the UK and the world.

The event will take place at Fort Augustus, Inverness on 28th September 2014.

Top: Enjoying an exhilarating afternoon of white water rafting on the River Tay at Grandtully Rapids, Perthshire. Credit: ©P.Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint Bottom left: The Baxters Loch Ness Marathon, Highlands of Scotland.

Below left: Inver Caravan park.

Below right: Solway View Caravan & Camping Site.

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Ü Discover Where to Stay: Deeside Holiday Park:

The site is six miles southwest of Aberdeen and in an area renowned for its whisky distilleries as well as dramatic scenery. The park is set in the southern valley of the river Dee. Maryculter, Aberdeen, AB12 5FX; Tel 01224 733860; www.holiday-parks.co.uk

Inver Caravan Park

Ü Discover More: www.visitscotland.com www.homecomingscotland.com 62

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Be the first in the uK to witness the dawn of a new year at this small and friendly site. on the northeast tip of scotland, it has one of the earliest sunrises and some spectacular winter sunsets. 38 miles south of John o’groats, it is the perfect site to spend a peaceful christmas and new Year, enjoying the scenery, coastline and surrounding environment.

Houstry Road, Dunbeath, Caithness, KW6 6EH; Tel 01593 731441; www.inver-caravan-park.co.uk

Solway View Caravan & Camping Site:

For some peace and quiet and fantastic clear, winter skies, head to the solway Firth. As its name suggests, this campsite has some stunning views over the Firth and the river Dee estuary. The beaches are close by, there’s some fantastic birdwatching and plenty of walking through the coastal farmland; on site there are some woodland walks too.

Balmangan Farm, Ross Bay, Borgue, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4TR; Tel 01557 870206; www.solwayviewholidays.com

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actiVitY | SnowSport

Main image: Snowboarders/skiers at top of ‘Main Basin’ ski run at the Glencoe Ski Centre. Credit: ©P.Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint

Scotland on skis Why fly south for the winter when you can have fun on the slopes in scotland? glenda rochead of visit scotland explains where to go to enjoy the snow.

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cotland’s diverse and beautiful landscape provides a fantastic winter playground, and there’s no better time to explore as we approach Homecoming Scotland 2014.

With the dramatic Highland and Grampian scenery, visitors can experience breathtaking views as they ski or snowboard on a wide variety of runs and slopes at each of Scotland’s five mountain snowsports areas and can enjoy great hospitality après ski. Each area is within easy reach of major UK towns and cities.

Highlights of Scotland’s snowsports areas include: CairnGorm Mountain This resort boasts Scotland’s only funicular railway and has a reputation for being one of the most beautiful places to ski. With a total of 11 lifts, CairnGorm 64

Discover Touring

Mountain offers 22 pisted runs, the longest of which is 3.3 kilometres, backcountry options and terrain parks or mini shreds.

The Lecht One of three ski areas within the Cairngorms National Park, The Lecht often receives early season snow. The resort is a favourite with families and beginners, yet also offers more adventurous sliding for other levels on 18 pisted runs. There’s also snow tubing available on a dedicated run served by a tow.

Glencoe Mountain Scotland’s original ski area, Glencoe has been operating for the past 56 years. Known for stunning views from the pistes to Rannoch Moor and an infamous “Flypaper” black run, the resorts

19 runs and 7 lifts also offer gentle beginners slopes on the Plateau and amazing runs for intermediates and experts.

Nevis Range Nevis Range offers the highest skiing in Scotland on the slopes and in the corries of Aonach Mor – one of Scotland’s highest mountains. 35 runs are served by Scotland’s only gondola as well as 3 chairlifts and 8 surface lifts. Nevis Range offers a dedicated beginner area on gentle slopes, some amazing intermediate runs on the face of the mountain and awesome off-piste itineraries for experts in the Back Corries.

Glenshee The largest resort in the UK, Glenshee extends across four mountains and three valleys. The resort boasts 3 chairlifts and 20 surface lifts serving 36 runs, 40 kilometres of pisted snow, off-piste and ski mountaineering terrain. There is a wide choice for all levels of skiers and boarders, from the gentle green Bunny Run to the rail park and the breathtaking, black-graded Tiger.

actiVitY | SnowSport

Indoor snow sports can also be experienced in Scotland at the Snow Factor in Braehead, Glasgow. Visitors can learn to ski and snowboard, or even sledge on the 168 metre long slope. For those looking for a little more variety, it’s not just skiing and snowboarding that can be enjoyed in the mountains during the winter season.

Visitors can try a range of surprising activities including snow holing, snow tubing, dog sledding, ice climbing and winter walking.

BBC Scotland presenter Fred MacAulay is an avid skier and has travelled to pistes all over the world, but claims nothing compares to the exhilarating slopes of his homeland. “The quality of skiing in Scotland can be exceptional, I’ve enjoyed some brilliant snow days,” says Fred.

“With the perfect conditions, our slopes can be better than the top resorts in Europe”. A new online Ski-Scotland video, starring Fred MacAulay, can be seen at www.youtube.com/visitscotland.

Ü Discover Where to Stay:

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Glenmore Caravan and Camping Site: (top left)

open all year round, glenmore is perfect for skiing, with spectacular views of the cairngorms from the site.

Aviemore is a 15-minute drive away.

Aviemore, PH22 1QU; Tel 01479 861271; www.campingintheforest.co.uk

Ü Discover More: For up-to-date snow and weather conditions, pricing, information on attractions and accommodation offers go to www.ski-scotland.com.

Braemar The Invercauld Caravan Club Site: (top right)

The site opens for the winter ski season and is purpose-built for family skiers. it is 9 miles from glenshee, a resort that has snow cannons.

Glenshee Road, Braemar, Ballater, AB35 5YQ; Tel 01339 741373; www.caravanclub.co.uk/bra

Ü Discover Extra – Ruth and Geoff Bass are keen skiers and are experienced at

using their motorhome, a Carthago Chic 147, when skiing. Ruth offers her advice on skiing from a van.

says ruth, using a Motorhome for ski Trips is so flexible – you can follow the snow and can often overnight by the ski lifts thus saving money too. Here are my tips: • consider storage – such as ski racks in a garage and boots on drip trays in the warm.

• Adapt an area of the ‘van for clothes drying, across the cab or over the shower for example.

• if your ‘van is not fully winterised your water system will freeze. iff you y have an external

• •

•

tank you will need to keep your heating on and drain waste water into a bucket.

TTake silver screens plus a handled broom, snow shovel and ladder.

Add extra insulation to the cab, pipes and cold spots – bubble wrap, silver radiator reflector, foam camping mats, spray filler, pipe lagging all work well. Thick underlay and carpets help too. if not on hook-up you will need extra battery power and a generator for emergencies – you

cannot afford to run out of power or your heating pump won’t work. ruth and geoff created their own storage racks for skis and ski boots (left), but you could use Fiamma’s new garage slide Pro ski (www.fiamma.com) for storing skis safely (right).

Credit: ©Ruth Bass

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Regional TouRing | iReland

Magical Mourne

All images ©Caroline Mills Main picture: Astonishing beauty overlooking the Spelga Dam.

inspired by the possibility of a mountain view, caroline Mills tours the ancient Kingdom of Mourne – on foot.

I

t’s early morning and a pale sky lights up the shimmering blue waters of Carlingford Lough as it calmly encircles the steadfast Haulbowline Lighthouse. The relenting, soft sand of Cranfield’s blue-flag beach is naturally rippled by the ebbing tide, the compressed grains yielding to our every footstep. Beyond the small flotilla of fishing boats bobbing at the entrance to Greencastle, with its cluster of half-dozen coastal dwellings, rise the magical Mourne Mountains. So busy are we gazing at the serene panorama to our walk, that we almost tread on a seal pup enjoying an early morning sunbathe. Our campsite host, Richard Chestnutt, had assured such a sighting and he was absolutely correct.

Mountain Beaches

We, my husband, two children and I, had arrived the previous evening eagerly 66

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anticipating three days of walking in this beautiful part of Northern Ireland. The Mourne Mountains, covering an area approximately fifteen miles by eight, in the district of Newry and Mourne, County Down, lie at the southernmost point of the territory.

To the south, beyond Carlingford Lough lie the Cooley Mountains and the Republic of Ireland.

The skyline views of both sets of mountains from our campsite, Chestnutt Holiday Park, were astounding.

Of the sixty plus mountains in Mourne, twelve rise above 2,000 feet. We had no intention of climbing all twelve – indeed one would suffice in three days! Instead, we chose a selection of walks from short, easy-going coastal strolls to more demanding mountain climbs.

Our first, described above, took us direct from the campsite in West Cranfield, along the beach to Greencastle and back on a circular

five-mile walk down quiet lanes between gentle pastures. With the Mourne Mountains in the not-too-distant distance, the walk provided a perfect introduction to the area.

A Coastal Drive

Lunch over, with plenty of liquid intake on a scorcher of a day, we took a short driving tour through Kilkeel, Mourne’s principal town and the seafood capital of County Down, to Annalong. The quaint harbour of this tiny fishing village is overlooked by a corn mill, restored to full working order and open to visitors, where our second walk began. This one-mile amble along the coastal path gave a brief opportunity to enjoy both the views across the Irish Sea and the mountains to the west.

Continuing north driving along the coast on the signposted Mourne Coastal Route, we gained further views of the mountains,

Regional TouRing | iReland

Top left: A break from walking – nine year old Lara takes a dip at Cranfield Beach, with the Haulbowline Lighthouse in view.

Top right: The old Corn Mill and tiny harbour in the coastal village of Annalong.

including Slieve Donard, the highest in the area at 2,788 feet that plummits to the sea.

Approaching the picturesque and popular coastal town of Newcastle, our self-guided tour took us inland for the first time, past Tollymore Forest Park. A must for a return visit, the landscaped park is filled with appealing 18th-century follies and provided oak wood for the interiors of White Star Liners, including the Titanic, which was built in Belfast.

As we turned each corner and uncovered another valley, with the ground rising sharply on occasions, craggy outcrops here and there, smooth undulations elsewhere, it dawned on us just how dramatic and incredibly beautiful the region is, disappointed that we’d not discovered it until now. We finished our driving tour with one last walk for the day, a visit to ‘Silent Valley’, four miles north of Kilkeel.

Within this north-south running crease between the mountains of Slievenaglogh and Slieve Binnian lies two reservoirs. Ben Crom Reservoir, further north, can be

reached on an extended seven-mile walk; we opted for a shorter 1½-mile circular walk to the dam of the Silent Valley Reservoir. As a landscaped park (there is a small entrance fee either per vehicle or per pedestrian), there are several other waymarked walks each selecting a different type of scene from short nature trail in the woods to more demanding approaches to the mountains.

Skinny Dipping

Inspired by our gentle low-level introduction to the mountains, the following day required no effort to get amongst them. Parking at Carrick Little, just to the west of Annalong, we took a five-mile return walk to Blue Lough.

Along stony tracks and crossing mountain streams, the trek gave a sense of being in the mountains, with superb panoramic views all around, while retaining gentle gradients. On a blisteringly hot day, the highlight was our approach to the Blue Lough. What a place to swim! Tempted by the cooling, crystal water and the idyllic

Bottom left: Looking out across farmland at the foot of the Mourne Mountains to the Irish Sea. Bottom right: Is The Blue Lough the most idyllic ‘swimming pool’ in Northern Ireland? Ben Crom rears its head above the valley.

360˚ ‘backdrop’, it took no time for our children to wade in as we, in a more refined manner, plunged our toes in.

Staying at a wooded campsite in the Victorian ‘resort’ of Rostrevor that evening, we took a short stroll across Kilbroney Park into town, where we caught up with the bubbling Kilbroney River. A very easy stroll under the shade of the Fairy Glen, an understandable name for this tree-lined river walk that’s popular with locals, was just what was needed after a day in the sun.

Climb Every Mountain

Accustomed now to our mountain climate, we now wanted giant views, and we selected a giant mountain upon which to get them.

Just to the west of Newry, the largest town in the area, is the Ring of Gullion. Like the Mourne Mountains it is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is a geological phenomenon. A long, central mountain – Slieve Gullion – is central to a ring of smaller, volcano-like hills with a scooped valley in between the two. u Discover Touring

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Regional TouRing | iReland Left: Enjoying the gushing Kilbroney River on a walk along the ‘Fairy Glen’ at Rostrevor.

Want More?

Go to page 71 for details of all the walks mentioned. hksedkuh

Bottom right: The dawn rising over Carlingford Lough.

Bottom left: Traditional cottages on Slieve Gullion.

The Ring of Gullion is clearly visible beyond.

The Ring is most prominent from above, so we felt it necessary to climb the main mountain. At 1,889 feet, and with another day of heat, it was far from a race to the top, rather a gentle climb, stopping to admire the view of the Ring and beyond on repeated occasions. And the view is spectacular. Our lunch spot was at the top, where, like an oasis on a mountain with no shade, Callagh Barras Lough greeted us.

Another dip was necessary in this infinitylike natural pool as we questioned ourselves if we could ever find another as high to match its beauty.

That evening – our last – we sat by the Spelga Dam, right in the centre of the Mournes, and watched the sun setting over the water as we reflected on our visit.

“Daddy,” enquired nine-year old Lara, “is Ireland your favourite?” With eyes fixed on the mountains, his reply soon came. “Yes, I think it is.”

Getting There by Car Ferry

We travelled with Irish Ferries (www.irishferries.com) from Holyhead to Dublin on cruise ferry Ulysses (3¼ hrs), and found the facilities and food to be very good. A fast catamaran, Dublin Swift, cuts the journey time to 1hr 49 mins. Fares start at £137 each for a motorhome or £206 for a caravan and two people. Club Class (with priority boarding, reserved seating, free refreshments etc) is available, as are cabins including family suites with TV and tea/ coffee making facilities.

Road travel was quick and easy onto the M1 direct from the ferry port with a comfortable journey time of 1½ hrs driving to Newry. (Using the toll tunnel from the ferry onto the M1 at 3 Euros is worth every 68

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penny than navigating Dublin’s suburbs.)

An alternative - Stena Line’s route Liverpool to Belfast, approximately 1 hour from Newry.

Please note: Open water swimming can be dangerous so please consider your swimming capabilities before taking a dip.

We found the two pools mentioned as safe to swim, based upon our own levels of competence.

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Ü Discover More: www.visitnewryandmourne.com www.discovernorthernireland.com www.discoverireland.com www.campingireland.ie (download the official camping ireland app)

Ü Discover Where to Stay: We stayed at two sites, both members of the irish camping & caravanning council:

Chestnutt Holiday Park: A five-

star holiday park with superb views over the Mourne Mountains and just yards from cranfield’s blue-flag beach. Pitches are well-spaced. Facilities include a wellstocked shop, very pleasant café serving homemade food using local produce and an excellent playground.

3 Grange Rd, Cranfield West, Kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4LW Tel 02841 762653 www.chestnuttholidayparks.com

Kilbroney Park: in the landscaped

grounds of a lovely municipal park surrounded by trees and adjacent to the vast rostrevor Forest. some pitches have a view of carlingford Lough. A 10-minute walk takes you into rostrevor village. The park gets very busy during school holidays.

Shore Rd, Rostrevor, Co. Down, BT34 3AA Tel 02841 738134 www.visitnewryandmourne.com

Left: Chestnutt Holiday Park has the Mourne Mountains for a backdrop, yet is within a few yards of Cranfield’s blue-flag beach.

Above: Kilbroney Forest Park campsite is at the foot of Rostrevor Forest and Slieve Martin.

Feel

at home

in Ireland for less.

104

Sail to Ireland with Irish Ferries from only ÂŁ104 one way for you and your motorhome. Then you can stay where you like, with the best of fully serviced, five star motorhome holiday spots to choose from throughout the four green provinces of Ireland.

Travel is a holiday with Irish Ferries.

I538

Call The Caravan Club now on 01342 316 101 or book online at

From ÂŁ104 online fare for you and your motorhome (up to 8m long) is valid for midweek travel (Tues & Wed) on early morning cruise ferry departures up to 30.06.14.

Must be booked a min. of 27 days in advance of travel date. Subject to availability. Credit / Debit card charges apply. Terms and conditions apply. See irishferries.com.

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WHO DO YOU THINK YOUR ANCESTORS WERE?

Learn about your family history with TheGenealogist Travel back in time with our historic records from the present day to the 12th century

SAVE OVER £70

ON OUR DIAMOND PACKAGE using this link www.TheGenealogist.co.uk/DT50

We’ll also include a research pack to help you on your journey

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aCTiViTieS | Walking

Best Foot Forward Credit: ©Caroline Mills

ireland’s Mourne Mountains provide great walking territory and you can appreciate the scenery without actually having to climb a mountain – unless you wish to.

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aroline’s walking tour of the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion was based upon a booklet, ‘Walking in Newry & Mourne’, produced by Newry & Mourne District Council. It is available, free of charge, at campsites, tourist offices and tourist attractions in the area. In advance of a visit, go to www.visitnewryandmourne.com.

There are seventeen walks covered in the guide; Caroline covered seven of them. While the guide includes directions and maps, it is recommended that you obtain an Ordnance Survey map from the 1:50,000 Discoverer Series: ‘Sheet 29 The Mournes’ for the longer distance walks and when selecting your own routes. No height barriers were encountered at any of the car park facilities.

Walks covered include:

Annalong Coastal Path A one-mile walk along a gravel footpath with sea views. Rated as an easy family walk, it takes approximately 30 minutes. Accessible with pushchairs. Parking is by the Corn Mill.

Cnocnafeola Wood A 1¼-mile route on tracks through a small pine forest with gentle slopes. Rated as an easy family walk (though we would recommend for ‘outdoor’ children over the age of eight years), duration is approximately one hour. The guide map indicates that the path is within the forest

boundary; it is actually a track on the edge of the forest and therefore has little shade in sunny conditions. Parking is in the wooded picnic site (only signposted from the north).

Silent Valley An easy family walk of 1½ miles, with tarmac and gravel paths, suitable for both pushchairs and wheelchairs. Longer and more challenging waymarked trails are possible. Refreshments are available. There is an entrance fee for vehicles and pedestrians.

The Fairy Glen An easy 15-minute riverside walk of one mile, accessible either from Rostrevor village or Kilbroney Park (campsite), suitable for both pushchairs and wheelchairs. A more challenging mountain hike to the summit of nearby Slieve Martin is also available direct from the campsite (see details on page 70).

Cranfield to Greencastle and Mill Bay A 5-mile walk, taking approximately 2¼ hours on both beach and quiet, minor lanes providing scenic coastal and mountain views. Accessible direct from Chestnutt Holiday Park (see details on page 70).

Slieve Gullion A spectacular 8-mile walk initially along quiet lanes, then to the summit of Slieve

Gullion over rugged moorland and tracks between forest plantations. Steep and lengthy climbs involved with careful footwork required in places. No shade at any point and nowhere to obtain refreshments en route except the start/finish (Slieve Gullion Forest Park) so ensure you take all necessary provisions with you. Not suitable for very young children and all walkers should be relatively fit and agile. Parking at the Forest Park. Anticipate a minimum of four hours.

The Blue Lough A 2½-mile linear route (hence 5 miles in total) to the Blue Lough using distinct footpaths with gentle gradients, though assured footing required. Limited shade.

Spectacular scenery and an extra climb over rough terrain takes you to a further viewpoint overlooking Ben Crom Reservoir.

Park in designated car park at Carrick Little, or at the farm providing parking due north – both two miles from Annalong.

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if you’d prefer company while walking, the annual Mourne International Walking Festival takes place in 2014 from 27th-29th June. A selection of daily lowland walks from 6 to 25 miles, plus a mountain hike and ramble. visit www.mournewalking.co.uk for more information

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Touring | rEViEWS

Innovation & Technology

some great reat stuff for great touring…

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Westfalia

Diddy Van

Westfalia announces the launch of an rX retractable Towbar into the aftermarket for the Mercedes A class W176 & B class W246. The towbar is unlocked using an easy access handle positioned behind the bumper. The towbar neck is then rotated by hand into the final locked position. For safety, a warning tone will sound if the mechanism is not correctly located in the locked position. When not in use the towbar neck and electrical socket can be swivelled back andout of sight behind the vehicle’s bumper. www.westfalia-automotive.co.uk

This caught our eye over the summer – so we thought we would share it with you! www.diddyvans.co.uk

Duvalay

Tripbuddy

Duvalay has signed an exclusive deal with swift group. new for 2014, Duvalay will fit the Duvalay Duvalite mattress in swift’s fixed bed models to give customers the ultimate night’s sleep. This will be a standard feature in the 2014 se caravan ranges upward and all coachbuilt motorhomes. Brought to recognition on Dragon’s Den and now backed by Hilary Devey, the Duvalay Duvalite is a new innovative mattress made with lightweight memory fibre technology.

For more information about lightweight touring please see page 78. www.duvalay.co.uk

Hampshire company Tripbuddy Ltd launches an exciting retro-contemporary twist to the caravan and leisure vehicle market with the introduction of its brand new flagship product, called simply Tripbuddy™.

With stunning, head-turning looks Tripbuddy™ packs all the gear you need for that leisure getaway, sports a fully integrated, custom-made sound system with MP3 and smartphone features and comes in a range of chic, snazzy colours and graphics; you can even have it colour coordinated to match or compliment your towing vehicle – or your surf board! see the full review in the next issue of Discover Touring. www.tripbuddy.co.uk

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2944AvtexUSA4Advertsa-wJW_Layout 1 27/06/2013 11:39 Page 1

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DVB-T2: DVB-T2, is DVB-T (digital video broadcast – terrestrial) 2nd generation. This latest digital broadcast platform allows broadcasters to transmit programmes in high definition (HD). Only products that are equipped with a DVB-T2 tuner can receive HD programmes through a standard aerial without the need for extra equipment.

DVB-S2: DVB-S2, is DVB-S (digital video broadcast – satellite) 2nd generation. This latest digital broadcast platform allows broadcasters to transmit programmes in high definition (HD). Products that are equipped with a DVB-S2 tuner can receive HD programmes through a satellite antenna without the need for extra equipment.

The new Avtex DRS range combine both DVB-T2 and DVB-S2 tuners in one unit so you can enjoy programmes transmitted in HD through your satellite dish or standard aerial! *subscription free

This is not just HD ready, this is HD BUILT IN!

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WHY COMPROMISE? Discover Touring

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Touring | REVIEWS Isabella The Magnum 250 is the big brother to Isabella’s popular touring porch, the Magnum 250 has a spacious depth of 2.5 metres. Produced in breathable Isacryl material in shades of grey. The front and side panels can be folded down or removed and there are mosquito nets in both sides, offering a wealth of ventilation options. There are a number of optional extras, including Annex 250, Cosy Corner, Eclipse Front Sun Canopy, allowing you to personalise the Magnum 250 to your own requirements.

Produced in Acrylic material the Granite windscreen is supplied with Zinox steel poles. The windscreen is 460cm length by 130cm height and is three sided. As with all Isabella windscreens it is supplied with guy ropes, pegs and the Stabilo system. The Stabilo system consists of loose earth spikes and support feet. The system ensures that windscreens remain securely in place at all times.

Produced in Polyester/PVC material in Charcoal colour.

The Isabella folding Camp Bed is practical and comfortable.

It can be used as an extra bed or a sun lounger. It folds for easy storage and is lightweight and easy to carry. Take our word for it – this was used on tour this summer and no one had a finer night’s sleep than this reviewer.

Foldable beach mat with the option of raising the headboard into a sitting position. The beach mat is equipped with a shoulder strap, which together with its low weight makes it easy to carry. Additionally, it has a zipped storage compartment, ideal for your towel and favourite book. www.isabella.net

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Maxview

Maxview have announced the official launch of the new “Precision Portable Tripod Satellite Kit” range,specially designed to receive satellite TV for people on the move. New unique and innovative features include: Designed for easy set up in just 5 simple steps; Easy to read elevation indicator with precise adjustment; South satellite zone, Reduces margin for error; Integrated satellite finder to aid alignment to satellite; Level indicator on tripod leg providing more accurate elevation reading; 10m Flexible Cable; Pre-assembed in just 2 parts for quick set up; For use in the UK and parts of Europe; 55 and 65cm dish sizes available; Robust, but lightweight construction. www.maxview.co.uk

Coleman

Coleman comes to the rescue of taller campers this spring with its award-winning Big Basin sleeping bag. Big in size and big in performance, the Big Basin combines high-performance materials with generous, oversized dimensions that offer incredible comfort to the largest camper (up to 6’6”).

Designed with Coleman’s typical attention to detail, the Big Basin features an integrated Zipplow™ to prevent the fabric from snagging while opening and closing the bag as well as an internal pocket that is ideal for storing your torch or valuables.

Say goodbye to compromise while cooking outdoors following the introduction of the versatile new Camp Stove Oven from Campingaz.

Featuring two powerful and fully adjustable burners combined with a 900W, full size oven, the Camp Stove Oven means you can effortlessly cook all of your family favourites at the campsite.

Inspire your family to embrace life outdoors this summer with the new Da Gama tent range. Named after one of history’s greatest explorers, the Da Gama is the perfect companion for your family’s next adventure thanks to its generous dimensions and highperformance materials.

Quick and easy to pitch due to its rugged cabin structure, the Da Gama’s sturdy design with strong steel poles ensures it will withstand whatever the weather throws at it. Mesh pole sleeves help to reduce the tent’s wind resistance and a fully-integrated, sewn-in groundsheet promises clean, dry and bug-free camping.

The high-performance flysheet has a 3000mm hydrostatic head and has also been treated with Coleman UV Guard™, ensuring you are protected from the elements come rain or shine.

The Da Gama is available in 4, 5 and 6 person models and all three can be pitched together with an additional Front Extension (sold separately), perfect for extending your home away from home. www.coleman.eu

touring | REVIEWS

Towbars and the MOT test Towbars and their attachment to the vehicle is part of the MOT test. The test applies to any type of towbar fitted to the rear of any vehicle in Classes 3, 4, 5, & 7. It does not include towbars fitted to motorcycles as they are not covered by this legislation. Nor does it include the emergency towing eye, which is fitted to many modern vehicles.

If the tow ball is not fitted at the time of test, only the security attachment of the towbar brackets and the condition of the vehicle structure will be assessed. However, where a towbar has been deliberately rendered unfit for further use, so that the simple refitting of a ball, pin or eye is no longer possible, any remaining components will no longer be considered as a towbar for the purpose of the test.

The electrical wiring and socket are part of the test if you have 13 PIN electrics.

What about quick release or detachable towballs?

Towbars with a quick release mechanism will be checked for excessive play between the detachable tow ball and its receiver socket.

Free play in the tapered swan neck fitting of up to 3mm movement measured at the ball end is acceptable. The check will also include that the release mechanism secures the tow ball as intended.

How will the towbar be tested?

The inspection will consist of a visual assessment of the towbar assembly for excessive corrosion, fractures and damage as well as wear of the tow ball, jaw, hook or eye.

AutoSock AutoSock helped thousands of drivers last winter. Don’t leave it until it is too late , order a pair now and make sure you are prepared for the snow this time.

What are they? AutoSock are textile ‘socks’, which you slip over the driving wheels on cars or light commercials. There’s only one possible way to fit them, so no practice is needed.

AutoSock are reusable and take up minimal space in the car.

When should you use them? AutoSock provide an ideal “Get me home” or “Get me to that meeting” solution. They work well in wetsnow conditions and are therefore appropriate for the UK where snowfall is sporadic and few people use winter tyres. Even 4x4s usually have wide tyres that are wholly unsuited to winter driving. The good news is that AutoSock have been shown by the TUV to be more effective than winter tyres, with the further benefit that

It will also include a check for the presence and security of retaining nuts, bolts, pins etc. as well as any necessary locking devices, such as split, or ‘R’ pins.

Checks that the towbar assembly is securely attached to the vehicle structure include that mountings, supports and fixings are of an appropriate size and type, which may involve pulling on the towbar to check for the suitability of materials used.

The condition of the vehicle structure within 30cm of all towbar mounting points will be checked for any deliberate modification, corrosion, damage, fracture or inadequate repair, which affects the strength of the structure to the extent that the security of attachment of the towbar is significantly reduced. If it is, this will result in failure.

How will wear be assessed?

Wear in a pin, jaw or hook will be regarded as excessive if the thickness of the metal at any point is reduced by more than 25% of the original thickness. Pin locating holes will be rejected if they are worn or elongated by more than 25% of their original diameter.

These criteria also apply to pins and brackets for any height adjustment or swivel devices.

For tow balls the amount of acceptable wear is considerably less, therefore a tow ball will be rejected if a visual assessment indicates that the tow ball is obviously excessively worn.

What about height adjustable towbars?

On height adjustable or swivelling towbars, additional checks will be necessary to check for presence, security and excessive wear of

you only fit them when you need them.

How do they work? Snow and ice sticks to fabric, which is why many people still put woolly socks over their shoes when walking on ice or snow.

AutoSock’s specially developed textile “wicks away” any water that’s found between the ground and the tyre (generated by the warmth of the sun, or wheel spin) improving the dry friction grip. The textile also has an unusual weave that maximises the friction contact with the ground.

AutoSock was launched in Norway in 2002 after a long period of testing, evaluation and improvement. Sales have grown exponentially, with almost two million pairs sold so far, worldwide, mostly on recommendation.

Many car manufacturers such as BMW Group, Citroën, Fiat Group, Honda, Lexus, Mazda, Peugeot PSA, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and VW GROUP approve AutoSock. www.roofbox.co.uk

locating or swivel pins and brackets.

Any locating or swivel pin retaining devices will also be checked for presence and security.

Reasons for Rejection A towbar component insecure, fractured or excessively worn, corroded or damaged.

Towbar assembly is attached to the vehicle structure using a mounting, support or fixing which is obviously of an inappropriate size or type.

A. retaining device missing or insecure B. locking device missing, insecure, inadequate or damaged to the extent that its operation is impaired.

A. Excessive play between a detachable tow ball and its receiver socket.

B. a quick release mechanism that does not secure the tow ball arm as intended.

A. Locating or swivel pin missing or insecure.

B. excessive play or wear in a locating or swivel pin or bracket C. a locating or swivel pin retaining device missing or insecure.

Any deliberate modification, excessive corrosion, damage, fracture or inadequate repair of a load bearing structure or supporting panelling within 30cm of the towbar mountings, which affects its strength to the extent that the security of attachment of the towbar is significantly reduced.

This information is meant as a guide only.

For more information visit the VOSA website or the DirectGov website.

With thanks to: www.westfalia-automotive.co.uk

The Marquis 175 A winner! Marquis’ special edition Majestic range comes out top after scooping the ‘Best Coachbuilt for two’ award at the 2013 Practical Motorhome and Caravan of the Year Awards.

Flintshire Caravans Due to the fact that caravan and motorhome manufacturers make their units in one piece sides, the pressure is on to fill and paint, instead of replacing sides at great cost.

Flintshire Caravans has seen the change and heavily invested in a Spray Booth. Its purposebuilt workshop is ideal for all servicing and repairs with most makes of caravans catered for.

This futuristic place has a paint shop and the latest diagnostic paint matching equipment, and is approved by all the leading insurance companies. www.flintshirecaravans.co.uk

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PrACTiCAL | LighTWEighTS

The Light brigade

We all like luxury, but the location and view on site, and much of the holiday experience are the same, whether you are stay in a 6000kg motorhome or 750kg trailer tent. We look at lightweight touring.

Author: Martin Spencer

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ighter options tend to be cheaper to buy and run, are easier to store when not in use, and help do your bit for the environment. They’re unlikely to need more than a basic driving licence – handy for younger drivers. If you’re starting out and need a first outfit on a tight budget, they may well let you buy newer (even brand new) instead of older and possibly less reliable. If you’ve downsized your car post-retirement, you might think a caravan is no longer viable – think again! So what are your options?

Small car towing capabilities

Modern superminis (e.g. Vauxhall Corsa) and lower medium category cars (e.g. Ford Focus) are surprisingly capable, within certain practical limits, of course. Check the manufacturer’s guidance, as there are some models or specific variants that may not be permitted to tow, or have very restricted limits. Surprisingly, it’s rarely engine size that’s a problem these days – we’ve tested cars with 1.4 or even 1.2 engines that have been quite competent. However, watch out for low towing limits on some small 76

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automatics. It’s entirely possible to find a modest-sized car (e.g. VW Jetta which won The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year for two years running in 2012 and 2013) which will tow, say, a 1200kg caravan with ease, yet regularly return 60mpg or more when driven solo. It’s a little harder to find viable supermini towcars, and you more commonly find some variants are rated higher than others, so check carefully. Some current diesel Vauxhall Corsas have a 1000kg towing limit and are just about heavy enough to control a caravan that big, but some petrol models have an 850kg limit, or even a very restrictive 500kg limit for the smallest engine options.

We’ve a huge database of car technical data at The Club, and can happily talk you through the capabilities of a car. If you’re a Club member, you can access this database yourself whenever you want for free, via www.caravanclub.co.uk/outfitmatching and use it to find compatible caravan and trailer tents too. There’s a wealth of towcar tests at www.caravanclub.co.uk/towcar along with general buying advice. If checking the

capabilities of a car you already own, the handbook should contain relevant data, but we find information there is sometimes rather sketchy. Look at the car’s weight plate– usually on one of the door pillars.

It should list four figures in kilograms, and the difference between the first two is usually (but not always) the towing limit. If there are only three figures, then sadly the car isn’t rated to tow.

Conventional caravans

By ‘conventional’, I mean those with a rigid body and a fixed roof with enough space to stand upright. The lightest of these start around 750kg fully laden (all weights quoted are fully laden) - e.g. Freedom Jetstream.

Viable caravans, but very small, these are perhaps best suited to a couple – most are only 2-berths. They’ve been sold for many years, meaning you can buy a new one for £8000 upwards, or find secondhand ones quite readily, at a very wide range of prices.

Several mainstream manufacturers have 2- or 4-berth models at 1000-1100kg – e.g. Bailey Orion 400/2, Lunar Ariva, u

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PrACTiCAL | LighTWEighTS

Bailey orion 400-2 interior.

Top left: sunncamp Holiday 400.

Bottom left: eriba Touring 320.

Top right: gobur carousel 10-2 slimline interior. elddis Xplore 304 interior.

Adria Altea Shannon, but the stand out choices in recent years have been Elddis’ Xplore range and Venus caravans (made

by Lunar). Both have 2- and 4-berth configurations at remarkably low weights – e.g. Elddis Xplore 304 (4-berth, 1044kg) and Venus 500/4 (4-berth, 1190kg, but with a really generous payload capacity for a lightweight ‘van). Xplore included really lightweight models from 2010, while Venus was launched in 2012. That limits the preowned examples you’ll find, but both are proving popular, and there should be plenty of second owner choices. Either range makes a good starting point for a family caravan, or in the case of larger Venus models, if you want the comfort of a fixed bed layout.

Trailer tents, folding campers

Probably the ultimate lightweight option (other than a tent). Although we use the ‘trailer tent’ description quite broadly, strictly speaking folding campers have a more sophisticated (and thus costly) mechanism requiring little or no ‘pegging out’. Basic trailer tents (e.g. Sunncamp Holiday or Camplair XL) start around £3000 new, and provide enormous space – they suit a young family, with plenty of room for sleeping, eating and indoor play on a wet day. Weighing around 500kg, they match the smallest towcars. Fundamentally they’re a tent, but the main beds are off the ground, and they’re easier to put up and take down than conventional tents. Remember, you stay on the same pitch on the same site with the same view with one of these as you do with a £70000 motorhome.

The UK folding camper market is dominated by Pennine Group, with their

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Bottom right: Mazda Bongo.

Pennine and Conway models. Sophisticated and well-equipped (mains electrics, water systems, heaters, fridges and cookers, plus washrooms and toilets in larger models), these cost £9-13000 new. Again, well suited to families as most are 4- or 6-berth, at 7501000kg, these are compatible with a huge range of towcars. Well-made, refurbishable by the manufacturer and sold in large numbers for many years, these also make a very viable secondhand choice.

Teardrop, folding and pop-top caravans

The height of cool to many eyes – retro, stylist, alternative – teardrops are affordable at around £4-6000 new, but are severely compromised in terms of space, headroom and facilities. You won’t find many secondhand, but weighing typically 500-750kg makes them highly compatible with small cars.

Folding caravans really mean Gobur in the UK. Occupying a solid niche market for decades, Gobur build a premium product which lasts well. Smallest models weigh 800900kg, larger ones around 1100kg and all can usually be stored in a garage. However quality build, clever design and reliable folding and sealing mechanisms come at a price – around £13500-18500 - quite a lot for a small caravan. Many owners never buy anything else having owned one, though, suggesting they still represent good value. Limited numbers are available secondhand except via the manufacturer or specialist dealers.

Pop-tops are made mainly by Eriba and Silver. These are conventional caravans with lower than normal roof height, a section of which can be raised on site to give adequate headroom. With roof lowered, fuel economy,

is improved and garage storage made possible.

Like Goburs, small Eribas are a timeless, classic design, immensely strong, which lasts like little else. Weighing 900-1200kg, smaller models are as stylish as a teardrop, but more practical, while larger ones are available with fixed beds.

Again, you pay for quality (£14-18000), but there are several UK dealers for these German ‘vans, and steady sales over many years means secondhand examples can be found… although good ones sell fast. Silver are made in France by Trigano. Conventionally styled, with a large range of layouts to suit couples and families including fixed bed models), they come well-equipped for £15-18000. Limited sales means relatively few secondhand ‘vans, but find one and they’re a great buy.

Small motorhomes

Perhaps you don’t like towing, have a really small car for everyday use, want a single multipurpose vehicle, or conceivably you just love the campervan lifestyle! There are lightweight, fuel-efficient options for you too. One possibility is the smallest car and car-derived van-based motorhomes, such as Wheelhome. Priced new around £26-30000, these are completely viable for everyday use, and sleep two in surprising comfort with 45+mpg.

Low production volumes means secondhand examples are best sourced via the manufacturer (at perhaps half to a third of the new price).

Another option is a car-sized MPV conversion, with a range of Japanese models like the Mazda Bongo being some of the most affordable. There are several importers/converters, but note that not all models are full motorhome specification – they may lack features you might expect, like fridge and cooker, or have limited headroom without an elevating roof. Most are imported

PRACTICAL | lightweights

Pennine Pathfinder Q6 folding camper interior.

secondhand, and prices vary widely dependant on condition and specification (say £8-15000).

2- and 4-berth options can be found although the latter suit families with smaller children best. Fuel consumption’s not wonderful at 2535mpg (automatic and 4x4 versions are lowest), however. Some mainstream motorhome converters do models based on smaller vans (e.g. Lunar Vacanza), but cost, size and everyday versatility are compromised quite quickly in most ranges – they have excellent larger products, but few lightweight, efficient ones.

The Crusader Countryman.

Don’t overload!

Some lightweight vehicles have generous payloads, others don’t. Check the capacity of a vehicle carefully before buying, especially if travelling as a family. Think about what you really need to take, and consider weightsaving options like an e-reader instead of books and lightweight deckchairs.

Lightweight choices are a growing sector, but still a niche choice. You may have to search out new models at mainstream dealers or shows. Limited secondhand sales restrict availability and choice too. Look for specialist dealers, or low-volume manufacturers with a loyal following, who will have models traded in from previous customers. For more recommendations, check out The Club’s Lightweight Leisure Trailer Competition – latest results available in the December Club Magazine and on our website.

Do your research, and you can find a lightweight, efficient, affordable touring option which will give a wonderful holiday experience. And if you occasionally feel the need to mention to your neighbours on the next pitch that you get twice the fuel economy they do, you can enjoy that too!

The Lunar Ariva.

About the Author Martin is Technical Manager for The Caravan Club, responsible for overseeing advice given on all practical matters to do with caravanning in the UK. Starting with family caravan holidays at a young age, followed by an automotive engineering degree and a career in vehicle design and safety, Martin returned to caravanning 15 years ago, and has been involved with all aspects of The Club’s activities related to towcars, caravans, motorhomes and trailer tents ever since.

o

Ü Discover More: www.caravanclub.co.uk/

www.teardroptraveltrailers.com

www.freedomcaravans.com

www.goburcaravans.co.uk

www.elddis.co.uk/xplore

http://eriba.hymer.com/en/

www.lunarcaravans.com/brands/venus

www.silvercaravans.co.uk

www.sunncamp.co.uk

www.imperialcar.co.uk (Mazda Bongos)

www.thepenninegroup.co.uk Silver 310DL interior.

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PrEViEW | AuToSLEEPErS

All wrapped up WINTER for W E I V E R P

A

uto-Sleepers are ready for winter… and next spring too. With additions to the line up of their range of coachbuilt and van conversion motorhomes, the company remain at the forefront of the high-end sector leading into 2014. And with numerous features that allow all-yearround touring as standard plus a selection of optional extras, such as water tank insulation, Auto-Sleeper’s ‘vans are ready for sub-zero temperatures.

So what’s new to the line-up for 2014?

Luxurious living with Mercedes Benz

For ‘customers who demand the very best’, Auto-Sleepers has opted to use the new, face-lifted Mercedes Sprinter 316 chassis, which uses the powerful 2.1 litre 163bhp engine with the choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic gearbox for their Mercedes Benz range. The existing range of models – Stanton, Bourton, Winchcombe, Burford and Burford Duo – will be enhanced by the introduction of the Beckford. This 2-berth ‘van features a large rear lounge offering 6’5” single beds, which converts quickly into a supersize double. It also includes a full-feature galley kitchen opposite a spacious washroom.

For the ultimate in practicality, the traditional gas locker has been replaced with a 25-litre under-slung LPG gas tank on all models. No more heavy bottles to lift or middle-of-the-night changeovers! The tank 80

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can be topped up as required without being empty first and has an LED gauge on the dashboard.

Fighting talk with the Peugeot Boxer range

A Auto-Sleepers made significant changes to their Peugeot Coachbuilt range in 2013 so there is minor fine-tuning for 2014. The popular range will be enhanced with the addition of 3-point travelling seatbelts on the Broadway EB and Broadway FB, so couples can now take guests or grandchildren away in safety and comfort. All models are based on the Peugeot Boxer chassis using the 2.2-litre 130bhp engine with 6-speed gearbox.

Also introduced is the option for overcab storage lockers alongside the current choice of an opening skylight or overcab double bed; all are available at no extra cost.

Fit for a King

Added to the existing range of flagship van conversions - the Symbol, Kemerton, Warwick Duo and Windrush – are two brand new models based upon Peugeot’s 3,500kg XLWB 6.36m chassis. The Kingham (illustrated above) features a fixed French double bed that can slide back to lift the rear section for backrest support, pulls down flat for night time and can lift up on gas struts for access to a large storage area beneath. A full-feature kitchen plus bespoke sofa seating and Captain’s Chairs combine to make luxury 2-berth living.

The new Warwick XL meanwhile builds on the concept of the existing Warwick Duo by providing superior open-plan accommodation.

Winter’s coming

Owners of either Auto-Sleepers’ coachbuilt or van conversion motorhomes will look forward to winter touring. Every model has received Grade III classification for heating and thermal insulation (to understand what this means, take a look at the ‘heating’ feature on page 100), so water systems are fully operational in minus temperatures.

All models will also feature a new, optional Winter Pack too. This includes: heater blankets (also tested to Grade III classification) fitted to both the fresh and waste water tanks, Dometic Concertina cab blinds installed in lieu of cab curtains and a heating system upgrade from the 2kw to 4kw Truma Combi boiler. At just £295, this is likely to be a popular option and could save hundreds of pounds of damage caused by frozen water pipes.

T

Ü Discover More: www.auto-sleepers.com

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Review | Auto-tRAil

Blazing a TRAIL

Author: David Hooper

With some exciting new products, enhancements across the range, and increased market share, there’s a lot to look forward to from Auto-Trail for the 2014 season.

i

t was an upbeat message from Auto-Trail at the launch of their 2014 model range when the company revealed that it had actually grown its market share, according to the latest figures from the NCC. The Lincolnshire-based company has built and sold more vehicles than in the previous season, a trend reflected by its dealers – so Auto-Trail is performing better than many of its key competitors.

The experienced team at Auto-Trail are steering a steady course through the recession and report that their more affordable Tribute and Roller Team models have proved very popular with customers this year.

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Carefully chosen

With an all-new V-Line compact leisure vehicle, carefully chosen other new models, and trim and specification upgrades across the company’s portfolio of vehicles, the future is looking bright for the Grimsbybased manufacturer.

Auto-Trail’s Tribute panel van range is getting a new interior layout for the Fiat Ducato-based models for the 2014 season, as well as upgrades to the standard trim specification.

There is only one Tribute model, called the 669, which comes with a fixed rear bed, but the new design will feature the arguably more

versatile rear lounge. The new model, called the Tribute 670 will retain the same chassis and dimensions as the 669, but will have a rear lounge area that converts into a double bed.

Up front, the living area will be identical to the 669, featuring two inertia reel seatbelts fitted to a half-dinette. There will also be two additional windows on either side of the vehicle to allow more light into the living area.

Both models will get new Trinity upholstery, will be better insulated, using a new way of insulating the side walls, floor and roof, so the van can be used all year round.

There will be a 10-litre Truma water heater

Review | Auto-tRAil

and Webasto on the move diesel heating.

Power will be delivered by the Fiat Ducato’s 130bhp diesel engine as standard, but customers will have the option of a 150bhp diesel and a Comfortmatic auto gearbox as cost options.

brake light, a stainless steel 800W microwave, a three-speed 12V roof ventilator, hot and cold exterior shower point and a gas barbecue point. Chrome front grille covers and door handle covers complete the sporty look on the outside of the vehicle.

Cherry finish

The Auto-Trail range

The main news on the Ford-based Tribute models is that they are getting more standard kit and a new interior furniture colour, the Auto-Trail Aosta cherry finish.

The five-model range will also get a vinyl floor and removable carpets for the 2014 model year.

The Sport pack is being replaced with en enhanced Sport ‘X’ pack which the company says is a special edition pack just for the 2014 season. All models will be powered by the 2.2-litre Ford Euro 5 engine with 125bhp.

Like the Fiat models, Trinity upholstery will now be the material of choice, while little luxuries like extra reading lights in the lounge areas, depending on model, a new sink and kitchen design and Triplex oven and hob all help to make these compact vans a home-from-home.

The exterior will feature side skirts in white, to match the cab, while inside pleated blinds and fly screens to the windows, chrome storage baskets in the en-suite and new curtains and scatter cushions will complete the 2014 “look”.

Customers who specify the Sport ‘X’ pack can look forward to air conditioning in the cab, 16 inch five-spoke alloy wheels, a Thule canopy/awning, colour reversing camera with rear view mirror display, multi-directional TV aerial and digital signal finder, a mains blown air heating system, electric door mirrors, low-level fog lamps, a rear spoiler with a high level

The main Auto-Trail line-up remains largely the same as for the 2013 season, with mainly trim and detailing upgrades, although a larger 175-litre Thetford fridge freezer and a USB phone charging point, complete with mobile phone holder are certain to be useful additions for modern folks on the go.

The Media Pack now includes a fully self-seeking satellite dome, while thoughtful touches like moving the night light switch to a more convenient position make the vehicles better to live with.

Externally, all models now feature a bespoke Auto-Trail front grille and new rear light clusters with LED lights.

Chrome door handle trims and cost optional stainless steel front bumper bars are available on the Sportline pack.

The Roller Team range

The Roller Team range is adding two new models to the line-up for the 2014 season.

Called Zefiro, prices will start from an enticing £39,990 on the road and feature light-coloured interior furniture.

The Zefiro 675 will feature a rear bunk bed and come with six seat belts as standard, while the Zefiro 690 G will come with five seat belts as standard with the sixth as an option, but will feature the useful garage storage space at the back of the vehicle.

The Ford Auto-Roller 200 and 695 models become special editions, will be attractively priced and feature the Lux pack and air conditioning fitted as standard.

This year’s Family Pack will become standard for the 2014 season, with a half dinette to the front end with two seat belts, so up to four people can travel safely and in comfort.

The Auto-Roller 685 is a new model, featuring the Low-Line bodystyle with twin rear single beds, while a very compact 6m model, the T-Line 590 features a rear washroom and an electric drop-down bed.

The Lux Pack for next season adds air conditioning in the cab, electric mirrors, a colour reversing camera, a 100 amp auxiliary battery, a 100W solar panel, a cycle rack for four bikes, and a fly screen to the entrance door.

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Ü Discover More: www.auto-trail.co.uk

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Review | CoAChmAn PAstiChe

The simple things in LIFE...

Author: Ben Lane

This was one of those impromptu moments – which are usually the best. A last minute decision by the family was made on sun-rain-sun-rain type day in early autumn to have a sleepover in a coachman Pastiche 520/4.

o

ur location: Grove Lock Marina near Leighton Buzzard. This fairly new CL site lies on the Grand Union canal nestled under dramatic wide skies where narrowboaters and caravanners live in perfect harmony. The facilities are immaculate and no stone (literally) is left unturned. The owners have even had the good foresight and good heart to create a semi open fire area with oodles of free wood, so visitors can talk the night away in all weather and keep warm doing so. There is a manned marina office and all the whiz-bang features you would 84

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expect from a quality site.

The Coachman Pastiche 520/4 was parked up in a wide, open field with spectacular open views in all directions. Nearby was the canal with some great walking or running in both directions. The Grove Lock pub is next door and well worth a visit. There is a 24-hour Tescos in Lindslade and the bridge where the infamous ‘great’ train robbery (Biggs & co) occurred is but a short cycle ride away.

Light and spacious

The layout of the Pastiche 520/4 makes this a

perfect caravan for a family holiday. It is light and spacious, with gloriously comfortable bench style seating arranged towards the front. The skylight above allowed what little light there was that day to stream in and show off the subtle interior design to full effect. The rear washroom is hotel standard and very spacious. There is a circular shower unit, cassette toilet and a basin that would look equally at home…. um… at home. The huge wardrobe to the right as you walk in the washroom provides ample space for clothes, towels, shoes and the removable tables.

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Explore the V-Line range, find your nearest stockist, download the latest 2014 brochure and much more‌

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Review | CoAChmAn PAstiChe

We also liked the way the middle dinette flipped smoothly into a bunk bed, which was surprisingly solid and fully protected with clip in sides. The front seating area turned into a very large triple bed; again requiring effortless work to prepare for a night’s sleep.

Plenty of room

The kitchen area is well laid out with a sensible amount of worktop space; although you can always do with more. The hob has three gas rings and an electric hotplate. Hanging rails, light wood overhead lockers and underbed storage mean there’s plenty of room for all those holiday essentials.

The 520/4 comes equipped with a control panel featuring a built-in voltmeter, awning, water pump, lighting and master switches, as well as a Pioneer entertainment centre with remote control radio, CD and MP3 player with DVD playback. And to ensure the caravan is safe from potential theft, it has a remote control alarm system with PIR and tilt sensors.

Set up on an almost empty field and beside one of the solid iron barbecues provided by the owners (at no extra charge), we set about on a cookathon of bangers, homemade coleslaw (from Tescos), beans and mash washed down with a local cider (for the adults) and local apple juice (for the children).

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Pretty soon a ferocious, almost biblical, rainfall replaced the sunny spell and so it was all inside for a game of cards. The rain pounded outside and as the sun sank we perfected the internal lighting to a comforting glow, and all was well with the world.

The evening drifted along gently (for a change) and – it has been said many times I know – but the lack of computers, TVs, PS3s or any of the myriad devices designed to remove you from the real world made this a true family affair.

We have said it many times in the past in the pages of Discover Touring – and we will say it again: touring in this way always provides a perfect opportunity to unite a family that may have become disengaged in recent times and gives the chance for each member to re-discover each other. If this sounds a little naff – and I am sure it does – I don’t care because it’s true.

So there you have it, the Coachman Pastiche 520/4 is brilliantly arranged, delightfully simple to use, does not cause any stress and allows for a family to detoxify in complete comfort.

Always a sad day when these mini holidays come to the end – and the caravan is given back to its rightful owner (in this case Coachman) - but, hey, you get to keep the memories.

For more information please visit: www.coachman.co.uk and www.canalmarinas.com

T

New Magnum 250 Coal Introducing the new spacious 2.5 m deep Magnum Coal porch awning. Made in breathable Isacryl material and supplied with the lightweight CarbonX frame. This is the ideal touring porch. A range of accessories are available to enhance your awning choice, including the new 250 Annex Coal.

New Annex 250 Coal

New Prisma

Made from breathable Isacryl material and supplied with the lightweight CarbonX frame. This annex also benefits from fold down external flaps over the windows. Ideal when you need extra sleeping or storage space.

Our largest full awning since the 1970s, the Prisma boasts an impressive depth of 4 metres. Supplied with the Zinox Megaframe for extra strength and durability. As an optional extra, additional panels can be used to create a living space with a covered terrace. A selection of accessories are also available.

Isabella International Camping Limited For more details, 2014 brochure, news & your nearest stockist: info@isabella.co.uk or tel. 01844 202099 路 www.isabella.net

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PRACTICAL | WInTeR TouRIng

A van for all seasons

Top ten tips for winter touring 1 check all water pipes for leaks; it’s important to keep them above freezing to avoid costly damage. in below-freezing conditions, keep the waste drain tap open. A fish tank heater can be placed in fresh water tanks to prevent freezing.

Make sure that you drain down both the fresh and waste water systems and keep taps open when the ‘van is not in use. Keep a roll of ‘rescue Tape’ (used by the us military) in your ‘van for emergency repairs to leaking pipes. it’s self-fusing, and creates a permanent water and air-tight seal around pipes (www.rescuetape.co.uk).

2 Keep a winter touring emergency kit with you so that you’re fully prepared for poor road conditions or staying on site. A (plastic) shovel is essential but it should also include a mobile phone (fully charged of course), de-icer, an ice scraper and a brush. carry wheel grips (such as Milenco or Fiamma) with you. They’re useful to get traction started in slippery conditions – whether ice or a muddy field.

3 Make sure that you remove any snow build up from the roof of your ‘van before setting off. The

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4

5

6

7

police don’t take too kindly to large amounts of the white stuff flying off while driving.

Be careful if using electric heaters on site to keep your ‘van warm. check the rating of the campsite hook-up first, or you may find that you overload the circuit and leave fellow campers out in the cold! Alternatively, rather than using an expensive-to-run electric heater, invest in a low-voltage electric blanket that will perk up the bedsheets before bedtime and prevent them from getting damp.

Add additional rugs and carpets to the floor for added insulation and incorporate cushions and throws into a living area to make it feel cosy.

Keeping the blinds and curtains pulled during the day when it’s not sunny will help to insulate the ‘van and keep warmth in. remember to keep some ventilation in your ‘van or condensation will build, causing mould and damp upholstery/bedclothes. use products to keep the exterior of your van ‘healthy’ such as Fenwick’s (www.fenwicks.info) overwintering exterior, which will provide a

protective, wax coating and will protect your ‘van from winter dirt.

8 ensure that you’re using propane gas rather than butane, which won’t work below freezing – and make sure that you have a spare bottle ready to go with a quick changeover.

9 TTowing a caravan is not recommended in icy or snowy conditions, but if it’s absolutely essential that you do so, add something clearly visible to the front and rear. Being (generally) white, they tend to blend into the environment and can be hard to spot by other motorists. When driving a motorhome, reduce your speed considerbaly and increase your braking time. if your motorhome starts to skid, take your foot off the accelerator and brake, and gently steer in the direction you’d like to go. only apply the brakes once you feel the vehicle regain traction.

10 And – if you don’t fancy touring on wintry British roads – why not take advantage of winter sun and head to the continent? You’ll often find great deals for season-long stays at campsites in spain and Portugal.

PRACTICAL | WInTeR TouRIng Seasonal Sites

If you’re really keen to use your ‘van throughout the winter months but feel unsure about driving or towing in poor conditions, you could think about a seasonal site. These are campsites that allow you to leave your ‘van on a pitch for a complete season, allowing you to simply come and go as you please, without the worry of towing a caravan or driving a larger motorhome.

There are many sites throughout the UK that allow this.

Snowchains

Discover Touring spoke to Nick Massey, Director of www.snowchains.com who gave the following advice: “It is a legal requirement to carry snowchains on all European mountain roads from the beginning of November to the end of March. Snowchains should be fitted to at least two drive wheels and only be used when there is sufficient snow to prevent damage to the road surface. For people who are using their ‘van in the UK

frequently over the winter months, it would also be prudent to carry a set of snow chains.

We find, however, that we sell as many sets of snowchains for vehicles to get out of a muddy field as we do for wintry roads.

When purchasing snowchains, customers need to know the tyre size.”

People do get nervous about attaching snowchains but actually they take just a few minutes to put on, are very simple to use, and can be attached without moving the vehicle.

We do advise, however, that you should try fitting and removing the chains for the first time before setting off on your journey.”

“Chains should not be driven on snowfree roads. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking and do not exceed 30mph.

“Snowsocks” are becoming ever more popular. They are lightweight and less daunting to fit. They are not as effective for gripping the road as snowchains and therefore, officially they are not a legal substitute where snowchains are required. However, they are certainly better than nothing and do help in situations with light snow.”

There’s no need to lock the door, shut the curtains and put your ‘van into storage for the winter. With so many campsites open all year, now’s the time to make the most of the chilly season with our top tips and advice for winter touring.

From top to bottom: Keep a shovel with you for campsite or road use.

Folding plastic shovels are lightweight and convenient to store.

Credit: ©www.roofbox.co.uk Use grip mats to help get traction started on ice or mud.

Credit: ©Fiamma Remove any build up of snow on the roof before driving away.

Campsites in southern Spain and Portugal often have discounts for winter season stays.

snowsocks are becoming more popular as they are lightweight and easy to attach. credit: www.roofbox.co.uk

Ü Want More?

Take a look at the ‘snowsports’ ffeature on pages 64-65 and our feature on heating and insulation on page 100.

How to attach snow chains

1

1. Pass the cable behind the wheel, so that the two open ends are in front of the tyre.

2. Lift the cable up the tyre to the top of the wheel rim and secure.

2

3. Fasten the hook on to the last link of the blue chain, then push the cable behind the wheel and adjust the chain to fit.

4. insert the tension chain into the red locking gear and pull to adjust. Fasten to the blue chain using the rubber tensioner.

3

4

Credit: ©www.snowchains.com

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deCIsIon TIme | ChoosIng The RIghT CARAvAn

BUY A CARAVAN – WHY NOW IS THE BesT TIme

Main picture: Get ready for the spring season and buy a caravan now. Credit: ©Caroline Mills

choosing a caravan from hundreds of marques, makes and models is never easy. sally Pepper helps you out and explains why now is a great time to buy.

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f all times of year to buy a caravan now is the best. All the 2014 models are being displayed at shows and orders are being taken. Meanwhile, dealers are very keen to sell on any 2012-2013 models that are using up valuable space on forecourts. You can get large discounts for caravans that are unused and come with full warranties.

However, if this is to be your very first caravan, we suggest that you try caravanning out with an inexpensive used caravan before buying new. A week in any caravan can give you an entirely different understanding of the things you love - and the things that wind you up – about a particular layout.

And now is the best possible time for buying used too. It’s really noticeable each year that, during the last two weeks of the school summer holidays, eBay prices plummet.

From September through to at least February, it’s a buyer’s market.

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First things first – what can I tow?

The single most important figure you need to know is the maximum loaded weight of caravan your car can tow. Arriving at this figure is easier than it seems. You just need the car’s kerbweight, and its maximum trailer weight (braked), plus its overall maximum weight (the latter figure is only needed if you passed your test after 1996 more about this later).

The most important principle is this: a fully loaded caravan should never be heavier than the car towing it. An extra safety margin is a good idea, which is why the Caravan Club recommends that the weight of a caravan is no more than 85% of the weight of your car.

It’s really that simple and you just need to be clear which weights you are using. For the car, the figure is the kerbweight, i.e. its unladen weight. For the caravan, you use the heaviest weight that caravan can legally be – it’s Maximum Technically Permissable

Laden Mass, or MTPLM. If MTPLM is less than car kerbweight multiplied by 0.85, you’re on safe ground.

And remember that these safety guidelines have your best interests in mind. Towing an overweight caravan in difficult weather and road conditions is nerve wracking. Many people choose lighter outfits than their strict limits, simply so that they can have a more enjoyable time on the roads.

There are two other qualifiers. You should never tow something heavier than your car’s maximum braked trailer weight – this limit is usually set so high it’s not an issue, but it is worth checking.

And a final complication need not bother you if you passed your driving test before 1st January 1997. For later drivers there’s an extra driving test, called the B+E, which you’ll have to take if you want to tow a car and caravan whose maximum laden weights combined are more than 3500kg.

deCIsIon TIme | ChoosIng The RIghT CARAvAn

Top left: Consider purchasing an inexpensive secondhand caravan before committing to large sums of money, to find out what layout works for you.

Top right: Buying new, you have a wealth of exciting models to choose from.

Bottom left: Getting the weight of the combined outfit of towcar and caravan correct is very important for safe and enjoyable driving.

Middle: Use your nose when buying a secondhand ‘van. Run a mile if it smells damp and musty.

Bottom right: How does the layout work for you? Check that there is sufficient storage in the kitchen for pots and pans, as with this Buccaneer Schooner.

This is quite a high limit. If you want to imagine what the heaviest allowable outfit might look like, for post 1996 drivers without the B+E, think of a VW Passat Estate towing a lightweight four berth such as the Lunar Quasar 524. The gross vehicle weight of the Passat 2.0 TDI Bluemotion (the car that won a category at the Practical Caravan 2013 Towcar Awards) is 2180kg, leaving 1320kg for the caravan. 1320kg is only 4kg less than 85% of the Passat’s kerbweight, and the Quasar comes in at 1310kg. Perfect.

Armed with your maximum caravan weight, from here on, it’s about price, layout, and features.

Buying an old duffer

A good, clean caravan bought from a dealer will cost anything from about £4000, and that’s a route well worth taking, especially if you’d like a dealer warranty. However, some real bargains turn up at much lower prices. Dealers have non-warranty part-exchange models, and of course there is private sale. The golden rule when buying a used caravan is: always go and have a good look before you commit yourself.

Shut your eyes and go in nose first – if it smells damp, run a mile, because when a caravan gets wet inside it’s often the beginning of the end.

Warning signs include spongy floors, cracked windows and stained wall panelling. Take a damp meter and check down in the corners and under the furniture. Other key things to ask about are corner steadies that don’t work, faulty brakes, and faulty towing electrics.

Budget for a safety check with a dealer, which can cost £100-£300 depending on whether they just check gas and electric appliances or also look at brakes and running gear. And expect to buy new tyres, even if the treads look good.

Caravan tyres can sometimes look new when the rubber’s been quietly rotting in the sun.

It’s worth running a CRiS (www.cris.co.uk) on any used caravan you are buying. CRiS is a registration scheme run by the National Caravan Council. A unique 17-digit CRiS number is stamped onto the chassis, etched into the windows and embedded in the caravan electronically. A CRiS check can alert you to theft, outstanding finance, and tell you whether the caravan has ever been written off.

Buying new

Lucky you! You have a wealth of exciting caravans to choose from. The most critical thing is to ensure that it has the right layout for your changing needs. A caravan with bunks might look perfect if you have young kids, but

how many years will it be before the bunks are too small for them? A massive shower room looks very desirable to a couple, but if you always use a campsite shower block it’s a lot of space that could be used for a fixed double bed or a larger kitchen.

Inspect the kitchen cupboards – some of today’s spacious-looking caravan kitchens can be surprisingly cramped when it comes to storing a large cereal packet or a set of pans.

For families, privacy at night is an important issue. Ask yourself: will the layout allow you to sit in the lounge with a glass of wine after the kids are tucked up? Will they be walking through your bedroom at night on the way to the loo? If you will always be touring as a couple these layout choices are a lot easier, and it’s worth bearing in mind that lighter layouts save on diesel. The right caravan really can allow you to travel further and see more amazing places.

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Ü Want More? see ee the ffeature on Lightweight caravans (pages 76-79) and the Trade Previews of new models for 2014 (pages 106-108).

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deCIsIon TIme | CARAvAn moveRs

EffortlEss CArAvAnning

Forget the traditional Bc and AD calendar. in the world of caravans, ron Palmer of Powrwheel counts the years as BcM and AcM.

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et us look at life BCM – Before Caravan Movers. The tension started about 24 hours before leaving. How do we move the caravan? Do we get help?

Will we be cursing each other, as usual? Do we actually want to go on this holiday? Is divorce imminent?

A fly on the wall would often have heard, “I’m hopeless at reversing my caravan and it causes me great embarrassment, especially if others are watching, so we always push the ‘van into position.” Good fun was had by all as onlookers watching the action overheard the ensuing conversation between partners, “We’re pushing and pulling in opposite directions,” and “You don’t know your left from your right.” Aside from the jesting, what is not often appreciated is heaving a caravan into place can cause serious back injuries and other medical issues. It is difficult to believe some are still suffering in this way!

A helping hand

Caravan Movers are simple and easy to use.

They work by compressing drive rollers to a caravan’s tyres. By using a Remote Control 92

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Handset connected to an Electronic Control System located in the ‘van, the wheels move easily in the corresponding direction of the selected buttons.

Powrwheel designed its first chassismounted Powrtouch Caravan Movers in 2000, following on from the original Powrwheel and Powrhitch front-end movers introduced ten years earlier. However, the product did have minor radio interference problems, and a bit of effort was required to manually locate the, sometimes unreliable, drive-rollers to the tyres.

The modern Powrtouch Evolution Caravan Mover Powrtouch Caravan Mover technology has advanced quite dramatically and quickly in the last decade. All Powrtouch systems are now completely remote controlled by FM radio so it’s, “Goodbye,” to interference.

There is also an improved electronic soft start that provides precision and accuracy of movement. Powrtouch systems, being the most powerful on the market, are more than capable of moving even the heaviest of caravans up the steepest slope and on

any surface it is likely to encounter – even deep mud. No longer is the engagement of rollers to the tyre difficult; now, by simply pressing a couple of buttons on the remote control handset, you will engage them to the tyres. Due to the improvements in the strength, availability and longevity within the new ranges of composite materials, Powrtouch movers are now the lightest available and virtually maintenance free.

And improvements continue to be made.

Life ACM

Life ACM (After Caravan Movers) suddenly became easier and conversations have changed to, “Great, we are going away for the weekend,” or “We’re looking forward to going on holiday again.” The only argument now is who is going to use the Powrtouch Caravan Mover, for, despite a ‘Big Boys’ Toys’ image, it allows anyone to get the caravan out and hitch up to a towing vehicle, regardless of strength. It removes unnecessary strain on the tow car too – no more over revving, smelly exhaust fumes, wasted fuel and, best of all, no more burnt out clutches.

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deCIsIon TIme | CARAvAn moveRs

Main: Only the bravest soul would attempt this simply by reversing. Better to use the Powrtouch Caravan Mover.

Top left: The caravan can be moved effortlessly simply by pressing corresponding buttons on a remote control.

Top right: The Powrtouch Evolution is completely controlled by FM radio so there is no interference. illustration: Carmi Latham.

OTHER USES FOR a POwRTOUCH CaRavan MOvER A Powrtouch is not just for parking the caravan. There are a few hidden advantages: firstly you no longer take the car to the caravan to hitch up, because due to the Powrtouch movement being so accurate you move the caravan to the car; for extra security at home you can turn the caravan around and park it with the tow hitch facing inwards; on site you can turn the caravan to get the best view. Having problems with that security wheel lock? no longer, because, once again, Powrtouch movements are so miniscule and accurate you can easily use it to fit awkward security devices. need to level the caravan? use the Powrtouch.

FiTTinG a POwRTOUCH As over 90% of uK caravan Dealers recommend the Powrtouch Mover, then buying is easy – just visit your local dealer and ask him to fit one to your ‘van. if that is not a suitable option then you can buy direct from Powrwheel Limited, using the home fitting service. All Powrtouch caravan Movers come with a full five-year, ‘no quibble’ Parts and Labour guarantee. All guarantee work is carried out by fully trained engineers, who will visit your home or holiday site anywhere in the uK. This on-site guarantee also applies to movers purchased from a caravan Dealer.

Ü Discover More: www.powrwheel.com

Top: Using a caravan mover allows you to park a caravan with the tow hitch facing inwards for added security.

Bottom: Drive rollers are attached to the wheels of the caravan and are operated via a remote control.

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spotlight | how a caravan is made

How a

Caravan is made We sleep in them, cook in them, and spend much of our leisure time in them.

But do you know how a caravan is made? Discover Touring asked neil Boulton of eterniti, manufacturers of caravans for the 21st century, to show us how.

Paper plans

The first part of a caravan’s design is to understand customer needs and requirements. These pointers allow you to come up with a concept and an idea, which is put onto paper in the form of rough sketches. once a design works as a layout the rough drawing is sent to the cAD (computer Aided Design) department where it is drawn up with exact measurements first in 2D to ensure everything fits, then in 3D, which gives a full ‘walk-around’ appearance and allows any changes to fittings before the caravan is made in a full solid state.

From the drawings a bill of materials is made, priced and parts are ordered as required. The production of the caravan is ready.

2D and 3D computer aided design drawings provide exact measurements to ensure that all the initial ideas will work.

From page to stage

At eterniti we have three main areas that assemble parts before the production line process begins.

Firstly all the drawings from the cAD department are sent to the cnc (computer numerical control) machines where the furniture shapes are cut from wooden foil finished sheets. As the process is computer controlled every piece is within a fraction of a millimetre in tolerance. These parts are then fed into another machine that edge-bands them to give smooth, clean profiled lines. once these parts are cut they are sent to the ‘cab’ shop where skilled carpenters use them to assemble the caravan furniture such as bed boxes and wardrobes. it is at this point that items such as handles, hinges, lights and parts of wiring looms are fitted.

Once the furniture profiles have been cut out, carpenters put the sideboards, drawers and cupboards together.

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spotlight | how a caravan is made

Body shell construction

Shifting the chassis

Walls

eterniti use lightweight box section aluminium, which is welded in-house, to create the ‘skeleton’ framework. This is bonded together with relevant materials: ply board for floors; ply board with the outer edge covered with polyester for walls; and ply board with TPo (Thermal Plastic olefin – having greater uv resistance quality and the ability to ‘flex’ with a caravan’s movement) for the roof. All of these are insulated using styrofoam between the layers.

The materials are put into a lamination machine where a bead applicator mixes and evenly distributes a layer of glue onto the wall construction. The outer layer is applied before the completed section goes into a suction press where it is set under pressure until the glue is cured.

once the laminated panels come out of the press they are automatically fed into a cnc machine, which cuts out all the profile holes for windows and doors. The first part of these laminated panels to go onto the production line is the floor section.

This is where the chassis is assembled upside down so it is easy for the engineers to work on.

A large lifting crane is used to carry all the chassis components so that there is no manual lifting required. once the chassis and all under-floor fittings are complete the lifting crane then ‘flips’ the caravan floor to its correct way round and it is positioned onto ‘trolleys’ that allow the caravan to slide along the production line.

The caravan now moves along the line from station to station where each point is responsible for further fitments of items from wiring looms, plumbing pipes and the pre-assembled furniture that has been made in the cab shop. once the main furniture is in place, the two laminated sidewalls plus the front and rear walls are fitted to form the caravan ‘shell’. it is at this stage that the caravan enters the roofing bay.

Putting a lid on it

Slide Out

Final fittings

This is a section of the line where the working platform can be raised to any height, from floor level to a level above the height of the caravan thus enabling the engineers a comfortable working position in order for them to do their job more efficiently. Here an electric crane lifts the pre-made curved roof section – the curve allows water to run off providing less risk of water ingress – and positions it into place where it is sealed. All body rails such as awning rails are fitted along with any high level extras such as air conditioning and electric awnings.

once the roofing bay is complete the caravan moves to the final side of the production line that is known as the finishing section. The first station of this part of the line is where elements of the slide box are fitted into the caravan.

The slide box itself is assembled as a separate independent section and all furniture and fittings are pre installed into it. The three stage seal sections are fitted to the cut out in the caravan sidewall and the slide box is fitted into place before connecting the 12v motors and the guide rails.

At several stations along the production line the windows are fitted, blinds fitted, decals fitted and soft furnishings installed. At the very last station the caravan has a full check over, which includes ensuring the electrics are correct. All the necessary items are officially signed off and certified. A full and comprehensive check is then done at the Pre-Delivery inspection bay. once signed off the caravan goes into a raintesting chamber where it is simulated to be rained upon from all directions to ensure that the vehicle is fully watertight. A final valet inside and out before a final check from the sales department and the caravan is ready for the excited customer!

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modern classic

w w w . f e n d t - c a r a v a n . c o m

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decision time | heating

hotstuff

With a choice of heating systems now available, Discover Touring investigates the differences between blown-air and wet heating.

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lown-air heating in caravans and motorhomes has been around for many years. Now that wet heating is becoming more common in a number of makes and models, there can be some confusion between the two.

Blowing hot

Blown air systems use a central heater that’s fuelled by LPG and a series of air ducts to move air around the ‘van to warm it up. This quick – almost instantaneous - method of heating has been the norm in caravans and motorhomes for the past twenty-plus years.

Truma has been the company synonymous with blown-air heating; its heating systems have been fitted as standard to most ‘vans.

The most common Truma heating systems that you will come across are the S Heater, which uses an internal heat exchanger that warms the air around it; and the Ultraheat, an electrical heating element which sits behind the heat exchanger and provides a source of heat for those who can or would prefer to run on electric power These run in conjunction with an air circulation fan to move hot air through the ducts. Truma’s Combi, as the name suggests, performs a combination of functions, providing hot water in addition to heat.

Wet heating

By contrast, some ‘vans are now incorporating Alde wet central heating.

This is a hydronic system, which utilises Ethylene Glycol as a heating medium for the transfer of heat around the interior of the vehicle. The fluid is pumped through a system of lightweight aluminium pipes, while the boiler is constructed of an aluminium heat exchanger that contains a 5.5kW LPG burner.

This transfers its heat to a middle stainless steel jacket containing the Ethylene Glycol heating fluid and 230V 3.15 kW heating elements. The very outer stainless steel jacket contains the domestic water.

Alde central heating delivers heat to all areas of a caravan or motorhome. The heat from the radiators travels up the outside walls and across windows. This acts as a buffer against drafts and insulates the coldest areas. As the warm air settles, it creates an even temperature throughout the interior, warming the furniture, walls and floor.

Due to the stored heat within the convectors, even when the boiler switches off via the thermostat and is using no fuel, the radiators continue to emit heat. In this way large fluctuations in temperature are avoided as heat continues to be emitted ensuring a comfortable atmosphere.

Which one?

Blown air systems heat the ‘van more quickly but, likewise, loses any residual heat more quickly once the heater has been switched off. Wet heating systems take longer to warm up than blown-air but residual heat lasts longer.

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Grade III classification for heating and thermal insulation grade iii classification is the highest industry standard for both insulation and heating. in addition to superb energy efficiency, it means that the water system will still work when the outside temperature is -15˚c. until recently, ‘vans with grade iii classification have tended to be large coachbuilts and premium-range caravans, but now both Auto-Trail’s (www.auto-trail.co.uk) brand new range of compact leisure vehicles and Auto-sleeper’s (www.auto-sleepers.co.uk) award winning van conversion models have been awarded with the ncc en 1646-1 grade iii classification for heating and thermal insulation.

The vehicles were rigorously tested at the specially designed, state of the art Truma cold chamber facility, where they were subjected to - 15°c whilst the interior must be kept at +20°c. it confirms that the ‘vans are capable of maintaining a comfortable internal temperature, even when external temperatures are -15°c, to provide all year comfort, keeping owners warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Ü Discover More: www.trumauk.com www.alde.co.uk

Top left: Truma’s Combi provides heating and hot water and has been a popular addition to ‘vans in recent years.

Top right: Illustrating the movement of heat in both a caravan and motorhome using the Alde wet central heating system.

Bottom left: The Alde wet central heating system is operated via a user-friendly digital control panel.

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Ü Want More?

There’s a feature on Winter Touring on pages 88-89

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practical | choosing the right motorhome

Child’s Play! choosing a family motorhome requires some very special planning. caroline Mills offers some ideas to help you get your purchase right.

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otorhomes are superb for family holidays with children of all ages, but especially parents – or grandparents – with very young children. They provide a safe and comforting environment, a regular holiday zone that children recognise rather than the unfamiliar surroundings of hotel bedrooms or self-catering cottages; it makes a more relaxing holiday for all.

Mealtimes can be more relaxing too, without the pressure of expecting children to behave in a restaurant every night. And with young babies, there’s no more searching for the mother and baby room in the airport or restaurant; when touring, you simply stop and feed in the privacy of your own ‘van.

But beware the teenager! With so many smart, chic designs these days, choose your ‘van correctly and you’ll find your teenagers actually want to continue going away with Mum and Dad!

Selecting your ‘van

With so many makes, models and layouts, buying a family motorhome can

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be overwhelming, especially if you want it to outlast the time your children remain children. There are a few things to consider before leaping into a purchase:

Travelling:

• Check the number of berths and seatbelts match your requirements (many ‘vans have more berths than belts).

• Do you need to fit a child seat? Check it will sit correctly. Chausson Motorhomes now have ISOFIX points fitted to some of their ‘vans.

• Think about having internal steps and the ‘vans height off the ground when travelling with very young children. External, retracting steps can be dangerous with wobbly toddlers.

Sleeping:

• Consider sleeping configurations and bed size. Are your children likely to ‘play up’ if put in a double bed together? With young children, bunks can help at bedtime.

• Consider wider/longer bunks for teenagers

or a larger double bed if young children are going to stay together.

• Also for parents and grandparents, is there space for you to stay up or get up without disturbing sleeping children?

• If there’s a baby in the family, is there room for a carrycot? Rear lounges provide extra space for this.

• Think about having more berths than people; it could save the need to make up a dinette bed each night.

Cooking & dining:

• Does the ‘van have an oven? Unless there are plans to always eat out, ovens make life easier with a family.

• Some ‘vans now include a microwave, useful for heating up baby bottles.

• How much food preparation space is there? Make sure there’s enough kitchen space, if the dinette table is likely to be in use for kid’s activities.

• Dinettes make mealtimes simpler but make sure there is enough space for everyone to sit.

practical | choosing the right motorhome

Left: Ovens are useful in family motorhomes.

Middle: Is there enough preparation space for cooking?

Credit: ©Bürstner Main picture: Family motorhome holidays are great fun. Credit: ©Laika Top left: Check that your child seat will fit correctly. Credit: ©Chausson Top middle: ISOFIX points are now fitted to some Chausson models.

Credit: ©Chausson Top right: Make sure there’s enough space for everyone to sit and eat.

Left: Internal steps are safer with toddlers than external steps that are high off the ground.

Living:

• Check cupboard catches – flimsy fittings break easily with children that tinker. And where are the switches for water heaters and 240v sockets? Are they positioned at ‘fiddling’ height for small fingers?

• Consider privacy and personal space – young children like ‘dens’; teenagers want somewhere to call their own. Bunks are great for this or otherwise an overcab bed with a privacy curtain.

• Cleaning – a vinyl floor is easier to clean

Bottom left: Rear lounges provide floor space to place carry cots as in this Autotrail Apache 700. Credit: ©Auto-trail right: Allocate space for toys, books and games. Credit: ©Sunlight Bottom middle: Shower and toilet facilities help to speed up daily routines as with this Carado A464. Credit: ©Carado Bottom right: A garage is very useful to hold all the family clutter.

Credit: ©Carado

quickly than fitted carpets. Choose appropriate upholstery too – expensive interiors and sticky fingers don’t match.

Can you buy spare seat covers or is the fabric stain resistant?

• Separate shower and toilet areas are ideal.

For a family, it helps speed up bedtime and morning routines.

Storage:

• Is there enough storage for the number of people? A garage is extremely useful for

storing bikes (especially children’s bikes with stabilisers that won’t fit on a cycle rack), pushchairs and dirty boots.

• Plenty of storage space around the kitchen area is essential for family food, as is having enough space for clothes. Where will the nappies go? And the skateboard?

• Allocate a cupboard that can be used to keep toys, games and books for rainy day activities or while on the move. Watch your weight limit though. u Discover Touring 103

practical | choosing the right motorhome

Ü Discover Touring’s Top Three budget, mid-range and luxury family motorhomes: Budget (under £45,000): Tribute T720 (Ford Transit)

www.tributemotorhomes.co.uk £38,000 overcab coachbuilt. 6 berth/4 seatbelts. rear lounge-diner turns into a double or two singles, half-dinette turns into two singles or a double at the front plus overcab double. separated shower/ toilet. combination oven/grill and 3-burner hob. 6.95m long. ver v y good value entry-level ‘van, built in the uK. Sunlight A72 (Fiat Ducato)

www.sunlight-caravaning.co.uk £40,000 overcab coachbuilt. 6 berth/6 seatbelts.

Transverse bunks at rear, double dinette at front turns into double or two singles plus overcab double. combined shower/toilet space. 3-burner hob, no oven. 7.23m long.

Lots of dining space and plenty of storage in this german manufactured ‘van.

Carado A464 (Fiat Ducato)

www.carado.de £44,995 overcab coachbuilt. 6 berth/6 seatbelts. garage Bed. rear double bed over large garage. Front dinette makes up into double plus overcab double. separated shower/toilet. oven & 3-burner hob.

7.28m long. clean and crisp continental design with lots of rear storage space. german manufacture.

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Mid-Range (£45,000 – £60,000):

Auto-Trail Apache 700 Lounge Dinette B (Fiat Ducato)

Luxury (£60,000+):

Bürstner Argos A747-2G (Fiat – Alko Chassis)

www.auto-trail.co.uk £52,000 overcab coachbuilt. 6 berths/6 seatbelts. rear Lounge converts to double, front dinette to double plus overcab double. separated shower/toilet area. Full oven, 4-burner hob and microwave. 7.5m long. Lots of ‘extras’ as standard in this British-built ‘van.

www.buerstner.com £78,690 overcab coachbuilt. 7 berths/6 belts. rear double over large garage, front dinette converts to double adjacent to lounge sofa single plus overcab double. separated shower/toilet. L-shaped kitchen with oven, grill & 4-burner hob. 8.86m long. The ultimate in comfort and design with masses of living space. Fully winterised with double floor.

Bailey Approach Autograph 765 (Peugeot Boxer)

Dethleffs Esprit A7870-2SG (Fiat – Alko Chassis)

www.baileyofbristol.co.uk £47,450 Low-profile coachbuilt. 6 berths/6 seatbelts. rear lounge to transverse double, front dinette to double plus drop-down double. separated shower/ toilet. combined oven, grill, 3-burner hob & electric hotplate, microwave. 7.45m long. superb new model for 2014 from uK manufacturer with many design features.

www.dethleffs.co.uk £63,000 overcab coachbuilt. 6 berths/6 belts. rear lounge converts to double bed, front dinette to double and overcab double. Additional dinette sofa. separated shower/toilet. oven with grill & 3-burner hob. 8.51m long. Fully winterised with heated double floor and lots of space provide all-year luxury.

Chausson Suite Family (Fiat Ducato)

Laika Ecovip 1 (Fiat Ducato)

www.carado.de www.chausson-motorhomes.com £49,990 Low-profile coachbuilt. 6 berths/4 belts.

Transverse rear bunks, front dinette converts to double bed plus drop-down double. separated shower/toilet. island kitchen. 7.39m. unique, chic design features in this French-built ‘van. isoFiX points for child seats. Large garage area.

www.laika.it £62,000 overcab coachbuilt. 6 berths/5 belts.

Transverse rear bunks, front dinette with sofa converts to double, overcab double. separated shower/toilet. 7.2m long.

L-shaped kitchen with 4-burner hob (oven/ grill optional). Fully winterised, italian-made ‘van with insulated double floor & rear garage. stylish, comfortable furnishings.

practical | traDe secrets

Trade Secrets Contributors: clive White, John Thynne, caroline Mills, gary Martin

not so secret now, Discover Touring reveals what experts from the caravan and motorhome trade have been saying about new launches for the 2014 season from British manufacturers.

Bailey

The recently-launched second-generation of Bailey motorhomes adds Autograph to its name and comprises five low-line coachbuilts, all based on Peugeot’s Boxer with 2.2 HDi (130bhp) engines and six-speed manual gearboxes. The graphite-coloured cab combines with a new ultra-low profile Al-Ko AMc chassis on which Bailey’s respected Alu-Tech body is constructed.

Much emphasis is placed on safety, which, following the successful completion of extensive crash-test research at the Millbrook Proving ground, has influenced the design of the structure and fittings in the dedicated rear passenger areas.

Building on the original Approach’s two106 Discover Touring

year success story, Autograph incorporates the valuable experience gained to enhance the product yet further. The new range is made more ‘self sufficient’ with the fitment of a high-performance 105Ah auxiliary Banner leisure battery, a fully-insulated 100-litre fresh water tank and similar-capacity waste tank. The spacious 7ft 6in (2.28m) wide body is heated with a new programmable Alde radiator system and features Bailey’s trademark Walnut furniture. Fully-equipped kitchens include the new Thetford Caprice anti-rattle combination oven with dual-fuel hob/electric hot plate. Washrooms all contain separate, fully-lined shower cubicles with an energy-saving Eco Camel shower.

Of the five models, three have proven

layouts with the 625 being a two-berth with end lounge, and 740 and 745 each having four berths with fixed double bed, the latter adding designated travel seats. The new 750 layout is also a four berth, but with an end bedroom, twin fixed singles, designated travel seats and rear ‘garage’. Also new, six-berth 765 has a drop-down double bed, end lounge and designated travel seats. Clive White

Lunar

Preston-based manufacturer Lunar unveiled a couple of new caravan models as well as revamps and specification changes across its entire range at a press launch in July.

Keen to promote the ‘Lightweight Luxury’ message, Chairman and CEO Brian Mellor

practical | traDe secrets

Ü Want More? see further previews and reviews of new models from coachman, Auto-sleepers, swift and Dethleffs throughout this issue.

Main: Bailey’s launch of its stunning new range of motorhomes for 2014, the Approach Autograph.

Left: Bailey’s Approach Autograph (745 shown here) combines a graphite-coloured cab with a new ultra-low profile Al-Ko AMC chassis and Alu-Tech body. r right: Bailey’s Approach Autograph 745 has four berths with fixed double bed and designated passenger travelling seats.

Lunar has added the Lexon 470 to its Lexon range for 2014.

Lunar’s Lexon 470 features a rear washroom, central kitchen and twin settees up front.

announced that 2014 tourers contain a new membrane material that replaces timber and contributes to weight savings of up to 55kg.

The first of the new tourer models is the four-berth Quasar 564, which features a full-width rear washroom. In front of this is a nearside, U-shaped dinette, while up front are twin settees and an offside kitchen. All Quasars have a new-look front and window design, while interior highlights across the range include ‘Romano’ soft furnishings, a Truma Combi boiler with digital control panel and Kenwood radio/CD/MP3 player.

Six-berth Quasar 556 is dropped for the new season.

The other Lunar newcomer for the season ahead is the Lexon 470, which features a rear

new from coachman for 2014 is the vision range.

spacious and airy is key in the new vision range from coachman.

washroom, central kitchen and twin settees up front. All Lexons (and Stellar models) get new side windows and exterior graphics as well as a restyled oven and fridge, while a new alarm with infra-red and tilt sensors should appeal to the security-conscious buyer. Four-berth 530 and five-berth 650 have been discontinued from the Lexon lineup. John Thynne

Coachman

“Designed from the ground up by experienced engineers, and carefully constructed by quality craftsmen, Vision is a brand new range of Coachman Caravans.

Using innovative weight-saving construction methods, the Vision is the

lightest and most durable Coachman ever to grace the roads, as well as the most accessibly priced.

Versatile, sleek and aerodynamic, there are eight layouts to meet the needs of a wide range of caravanners. From young families to older families or couples to grandparents holidaying with grandchildren, there is a layout to suit everyone.

Each model includes top-end kitchen appliances, the latest entertainment technology, a programmable heating system and stylish soft furnishings. Well equipped with everything you might need for a relaxing holiday, the Vision features the attention to detail you would expect from Coachman.” Caroline Mills u Discover Touring 107

practical | traDe secrets

Top left: The rallye e is the flagship marque for compass, with all four models offering four-berth accommodation.

Middle top: The entry-level Xplore range of caravans (the 574 shown here) from elddis impressed the caravan club’s gary Martin.

Top right: elddis has introduced the Accordo pair of compact coachbuilts, here the two-berth 105.

Middle right: The Accordo 125 has cavernous storage beneath the rear lounge/bed, with useful exterior access.

Middle left: The 275 is a newcomer to the elddis Aspire range, featuring spacious full-width rear washrooms.

Elddis

This time last year, Consett-based Elddis revealed its all-new body construction technique to the caravanning world. ‘SoLiD’ (Strong, Light, Dry) was employed on all the company’s caravans and motorhomes, with the promise that it is an, “impervious barrier to water ingress,” and gives, “added integrity and rigidity”.

Well, 12 months on and the company’s confidence in this construction method was clear to see to the gaggle of press who had gathered for Elddis’s 2014 model preview.

Not only has the firm increased its total number of models, but it has also brought a famous caravanning name out of retirement.

After a gap of four years, Compass is back.

The return of Compass to the caravanning fold is entrusted to three popular marques – Corona, Omega and Rallye, each comprising four models. As you’d expect, SoLiD is used on all Compass caravan bodies. There were three models on show at the preview, at which Elddis was keen to listen to early feedback from dealers and press alike – as a result, we understand that the company is making a few tweaks and improvements to the range before it is unveiled to the public at October’s NEC show.

Let me give you a quick overview of what you can expect to see. Entry-level Corona (£15,499 to £16,999) features a two-berth, a pair of four-berths and a six-berth; Omega (£18,249 to £19,299) is available in a choice of three four-berthers, including two fixedbedders, and a single two-person sleeper; while all four flagship Rallye (£21,599 to £24,499) models offer four-berth accommodation in a 108 Discover Touring

variety of configurations, including three fixedbedders. Whereas Elddis models utilise the BPW chassis, Compasses all employ the Al-Ko offering with ATC. While the new Compass models attracted a lot of attention, it was the entry-level Xplore caravans that most impressed me. Featuring design improvements and greater specification levels for 2014 (such as full-height ABS front and rear panels, new locker construction, dovetail drawers with metal runners, LED lighting and new washroom sink – 504 only), the single-axle Xplore quintet looks to offer outstanding value for money, with prices ranging from £12,149 to £14,199.

With all this effort dedicated to its caravans, you’d have thought that Elddis would have had little or no time to even think about its motorhomes – well, you couldn’t be further from the truth. The main headline as far as the 2014 Elddis motorhome story is concerned is the introduction of a pair of good-looking compact Accordo coachbuilts. Both twoberth 105 (£36,349 OTR) and three-berth 125 (£36,649 OTR) are less than 19ft 81⁄4in (6m) long and just 6ft 6in (2m) wide.

Based on Peugeot’s Boxer X250 Tempo Libero 3.3-tonne chassis and powered by the 130bhp 2.3-litre TD engine, the Accordos come as standard with cab air conditioning, cruise control, driver and passenger airbags, 95-litre fridge, fixing points for rear-mounted bike racks and large opening sunroof.

In terms of layout, 105 features a fullwidth rear washroom, offside kitchen and front lounge/double bed, while 125 has a

forward-facing settee with a pair of seatbelts aft of the cab, kitchen facing washroom amidships and rear lounge/ double bed, beneath which is a cavernous storage locker with useful exterior access.

Last, but by no means least, Aspire – all on the long-wheelbase Peugeot chassis – numbers four models for 2014, with two-berth pairing 205 (less than 6m long) and 275 replacing 215 and 240 for the new season. Both newcomers feature spacious full-width rear washrooms and prices for the range are all under £50,000.

Gary Martin

T

Ü Hot off the press it’s so new, not all the details had yet been revealed as Discover Touring went to press but iH Motorhomes (www. ihmotorhomes.com), uK independent manufacturer of premium van conversions, is about to announce a trio of exciting initiatives with one thing in common – increasing the available space within vehicles without compromising the legendary iH quality and attention to detail. And while they’re at it, the already-impressive existing range of ‘vans is receiving a makeover too. owned by ian Hartley, the company’s space-saving designs will be launched at the Motorhome and caravan show in october at the nec, Birmingham.

 

                

PRACTICAL | seRvICe And RePAIR

It’s approved!

The Approved Workshop scheme is a uK nationwide scheme that sets the minimum benchmark a consumer should expect for their tourer or motorhome habitation servicing requirements. The scheme offers a high level of customer service, convenience and quality across the entire membership. Discover Touring met with John Hartley, Manager of the Approved Workshop scheme to find out more. See www.approvedworkshops.co.uk

E

xplain the involvement of the two clubs and the NCC in the Approved Workshop Scheme?

In 1998 the two major consumer clubs and the NCC formed a tripartite ownership and the Approved Workshop Scheme or AWS as we know it today was born. In 2008 the NCC took control of the management on behalf of the owners and has developed the scheme further. This ensures the touring industry public and members of both clubs have a choice of reliable service centres around the country for routine service/ 110 Discover Touring

maintenance of their leisure activity vehicles.

This offers consumers peace of mind in the knowledge the engineers working on their vehicles are qualified in all aspects of routine servicing. This began with a service engineering qualification and over time has incorporated gas, 230v (LV) and 12v (ELV) electrical installations.

How many members are there?

There are 333 in total membership this equates to a mix of 181 Fixed/dealer workshops, 139 mobile workshops and 13 that have both a fixed and mobile workshop.

How does a workshop become a member i.e. what is the criteria?

Any workshop can apply for membership but must attain the core competency criteria initially which includes: • City & Guilds qualification in Caravan/ Motorhome Service Engineering • A Minimum of an ACoPs (Approved Code of Practices) LPG qualification for Leisure Activity Vehicles (LAVs) including the various appliance codes. This only applies to privately owned LAVs. If the vehicle is to be hired out then the owner

PRACTICAL | service and repair professional image and have suitable parts stock to undertake routine maintenance • A fixed workshop must also provide a certain level of customer facilities This is just a selection of some areas checked. There are in total 10 sections within each business our team of Independent AWS Development Consultants will look in to during a workshop application assessment and each area can contain up to 14 individual checks. The scheme has set a minimum benchmark of what it expects each workshop to achieve to gain membership. Many workshops exceed this minimum level because they value the scheme, its standing within the industry and the confidence this delivers to the consumer.

of the LAV must employ an engineer listed on the Gas Safe Register with the required qualifications. A number of AWS members are Gas Safe Registered but this must be checked in such instances • City & Guilds LV Electrical Maintenance qualification or NCC Training Academy equivalent • City & Guilds LV/ELV Systems, Circuits and Equipment qualification or NCC Training Academy equivalent • A minimum tool level has been set and those that require calibration must provide proof this has been carried out within a given time frame or a new tool purchased • Each workshop must have suitable Public Liability Insurance in place • Whether the member is mobile or fixed workshop the business must project a

Why would our readers choose an AWS member over a non-member?

By using an AWS member they are guaranteed that each workshop will act in a professional manner, treat them fairly and be competent to perform the task required.

In other words, the right person, performing the right task, is using the correct tools and documentation. If extra work is found they will always seek permission prior to undertaking any such work unless a monetary limit has been agreed beforehand.

Each workshop will display or have available on request a menu price list. This is currently the only scheme backed by all UK built tourer and motorhome manufacturers that ensures continuance of any outstanding manufacturer warranty following servicing by one of its members. The schemes level of customer satisfaction is 95%; this has remained fairly constant ever since we started to gauge this via the online customer satisfaction survey in 2010. Every time a customer completes an online survey they are automatically entered in to a prize draw which takes place every quarter. The lucky winner receives a voucher entitling them to £150 off their next routine service at an AWS of their choice.

How do you ensure quality of work is maintained once a repairer becomes a member?

Each workshop will be assessed periodically to ensure they continue to meet the high standards required of the scheme and the public alike. The periodic assessment will check all of the previously mentioned areas of each business but now they have become members we will check numerous other areas including documentation used, further HSE compliance and on-going tool calibration/renewal. The required competency of member workshops will always remain the most important criteria for membership. Staff members come and go; therefore the periodic inspection ensures all service technicians maintain the required level of competency.

What is the complaints procedure and does the AWS get involved?

As with any business sometimes things go wrong, the key is how these instances are dealt with. Thanks to the positive attitude of the membership the AWS rarely get involved in complaints. For those we do need to be involved with, we have in place a conciliation service, which is free to both the consumer and the member. Any complaint initially would be investigated by the scheme and hopefully a resolution agreed. If a resolution cannot be agreed or the consumer is not happy with the outcome this can be escalated (if viable) to an external Independent Case Examiner (ICE) who will investigate and make a judgment. In both cases the AWS member must accept any outcome or sanctions that may be imposed on them; the consumer can always seek redress via other means should they wish to. This does not affect the statutory rights of the consumer.

We understand that many manufacturers endorse the scheme and will recommend an AWS member as well as their own network of dealers for servicing. Can you explain how this works and which manufacturers are involved?

All UK tourer and motorhome manufacturers are behind the scheme in relation to routine annual servicing. This includes: AutoSleepers, Auto-Trail, Bailey, Coachman, Elddis, Lunar and Swift. All of these manufacturers will advise the use of either: their dealer network, an approved agent of the specific manufacturer or any AWS member.

They appreciate the importance of proven competency and customer satisfaction.

A member cannot undertake warranty work unless they are a dealer or approved agent for the specific manufacturer. In certain instances individual sanctions may be made between the supplying dealer/manufacturer and an AWS member but these are rare.

Is it necessary for a customer to travel to a workshop or are there mobile workshops/engineers that can work on a ‘van at alternative venues, such as the customer’s home or if they discover a problem while staying at a campsite?

I mentioned previously including those fixed workshops with a mobile facility as well; there are currently 152 mobile members who will travel to the consumer. This may be on-site, on their drive or even in a storage facility.

Does the scheme cover servicing of a motorhome base vehicle?

The scheme does not extend to the base vehicle of a motorhome but just as any other motor vehicle it is important for this to be properly maintained. Many of the AWS fixed workshops who specialise in motorhomes can perform these tasks as well, if they can’t they will usually organize this on the consumers behalf to try to minimize the disruption caused. All information

correct at time of going to press (October 15th, 2013)

Discover Touring 111

DIRECTORY | APPROVED WORKSHOPS

APPROVED WORKSHOPS DIRECTORY CHESHIRE

RHONDDA CYNON TAF

A & E LEISURE unit 51/52 cosgrove Business Park, road Three, northwich cW9 6AA ) 01606 973005  roger@caravanservicecheshire.co.uk  www.caravanservicecheshire.co.uk Approved Warranty agents for Bailey, Lunar, coachman, Autotrail. Fully accredited insurance repairer. outdoor Accessory shop

AUTOMASTER (SOUTH WALES) LTD unit 3, Llwyna Farm, Llanharry road, Brynsadler Pontyclun cF72 9DB ) 01443 222234  peter@auto-master.co.uk  auto-master.co.uk Approved by all uk Manufacturers for service and Warranty, specialist Motorhome vehicle service and repairs, Domestic controller and M/home fitment centre, Air con veh & Habitation.

CARAVAN MAINTENANCE 37 Westbourne road, stockton Heath, Warrington WA4 6se 01925 268674  caravanmaintenance@hotmail.com  www.caravanmaintenanceservices.co.uk Mobile caravan services and repairs at your home, storage site, pitch. save your precious time and ring us for all your caravan problems and we will come to you.

CARAVANCARE LIMITED (MOBILE WORKSHOP) 17 Wharfdale close, Whittle Hall, Warrington WA5 3DY ) 07713001338 / 01925 710250  caravancare@live.co.uk  www.caravancarecheshire.co.uk Providing mobile caravan and motor home annual servicing, breakdown and repair call-outs and we supply and fit caravan motor movers and accessories at very competitive prices.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

SOMERSET

2U SERVICES edendale, elmstone Hardwicke, cheltenham gL51 9TH ) 07768 252420  enquiries@2uservices.co.uk  www.2uservices.co.uk 2u services is gloucestershires premier mobile AWs. We carry out servicing & repairs to caravans/motorhomes & all fitted appliances. serving glos. & surrounding areas, we come 2u!

HERTFORDSHIRE

DERBYSHIRE GA CARAVAN SERVICES 8 Haulton Drive, castle Donington De74 2su ) 01332 391163  info@ga-cs.co.uk  www.ga-caravan-services.co.uk Mobile service & repairs of caravan & motorhomes at home, site or storage. covering Derbyshire, Leicestershire & nottinghamshire.

DEVON DNR CARAVAN SERVICES napps caravan site, old coast road, ilfracombe eX34 9sW ) 01271 883409  dave.rollin1@btinternet.com  www.caravanservicingnorthdevon.co.uk Approved Mobile caravan servicing in north Devon, swift Approved repairer, swift Parts available to order

DURHAM A19 CARAVANS cold Hesledon industrial estate, seaham sr7 8sT ) 0191 5815777  sales@a19caravans.com  www.A19caravans.com caravan & Motorhome servicing and repairs, Motor Movers Fitted, Damp & insurance repairs, Warranty Work, caravans Bought & sold, Mobile and Workshop Facilities, on-site shop

112 112 Discover DiscoverTouring Touring

GT TOWING LTD great north road, Welham green, nr Hatfield AL9 5sD ) 01707 262875  sales@gttowing.co.uk  www.gttowing.co.uk established over 45 years, caravan and motorhome servicing and repairs. Bailey warranty.

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE MISSIONS IMPOSSIBLE LTD Honeyhurst Farm, Dark Lane, Braunston, northants nn11 7HJ ) 07811 379412 / 0800 048 8769  approvedmissions@gmail.com  missionsimpossibleltd.co.uk Approved workshop authorised by the caravan & camping club, caravan club. All the correct servicing requirements by Missions impossible Ltd.

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE DIRECT LEISURE REPAIRS LTD 112 Fosse road, Farndon, newark ng24 3TJ ) 01636 682319  wayne@directleisurerepairs.co.uk  www.directleisurerepairs.co.uk Mobile service, repairs, Avtex Main Dealer, Motor Movers, solar Panels and much more.

CARAVAN REPAIRS LTD Marchants Hill, gurney slade, radstock, Bath BA3 4TY ) 01749 841051  sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk  www.caravanrepairs-se.co.uk caravan & Motorhome servicing,Damp,insuance & Warranty.Motormover & Awning Fitted. Approved Bailey AluTech and Workshop.

TAUNTON CARAVAN SERVICES LTD gravelands Lane, Henlade, Taunton TA3 5DL ) 01823 443491  johntcsltd@aol.com  www.tauntoncaravanservices.co.uk caravan servicing & Motorhome Habitation carried out.

Damp & insurance work undertaken. Bailey, explorer, coachman, Lunar, Alko ATc, Thetford, Truma Approved Workshop.

STAFFORDSHIRE THE CARAVAN SERVICE CENTRE unit 8 Deepmore close, Four Ashes, Wolverhampton Wv10 7DB ) 01902 798027  thecaravanservicecentre@btconnect.com  www.thecaravanservicecentre.co.uk Family business carrying out all aspects of caravan and motorhome habitation servicing and repairs. Manufacturers warranty undertaken. insurance company approved repair centre.

DIRECTORY | APPROVED WORKSHOPS/STORAGE SUFFOLK

CARAVAN MEDIC EAST ANGLIA 12 Wynton rise, stowmarket iP14 2AB ) 07771 941724  info@caravanrepairs.biz  www.caravanrepairs.biz caravan and Motorhome repairs and servicing by MceA trained and AWs approved engineer. Bodywork repairs, appliances repairs, and shower tray repairs. insurance work undertaken.

SHARMAN CARAVANS LTD The caravan centre, colchester road, ipswich iP4 4ru ) 01473 713284  accounts@sharmancaravans.co.uk  www.sharmancaravans.co.uk our workshops carry out all types of work from caravan servicing to a full rebuild and conversions, motorhome habitation servicing and insurance repairs.

WAVENEY MOTORHOMES Lowestoft ) 01502 513560  info@waveneymotorhomes.co.uk  www.waveneymotorhomes.co.uk Approved Mobile Workshop for Motorhomes and caravans based in Lowestoft, offer excellent value. Fully qualified and gas safe registered with over 25 years’ experience.

JUST TOURERS 79 Bannister street, Withernsea Hu19 2DT ) 01964 612587  justtourers@yahoo.co.uk  www.justtourer.co.uk Full servicing on single and twin axles. Habitations, gas, electric, Damp checks and repairs, Doors & windows repaired and fitted, etc. Also insurance work and warranty work.

WARWICKSHIRE

YORKSHIRE (NORTH)

ANDY'S CARAVAN SERVICES 16 Kennedy Drive, rugby cv22 7sP ) 01788 669556 / 07896 496855  andy@andyscaravanservices.co.uk  www.andyscaravanservices.co.uk Mobile service engineer. From a full service to minor repairs, appliances to accessories, i offer a wide range of services to caravans and motorhomes. “call me and i’m there!”

KURT'S MOBILE CARAVAN SERVICES 29 Melltown green, Pickhill, Thirsk Yo7 4LL ) 07743 387211  info@mobilecaravanservices.biz  www.mobilecaravanservices.biz caravan and motorhome servicing, appliance repairs, gas soundness testing, damp testing, motor movers supplied and fitted, and much more.

WEST MIDLANDS

ABROAD

EXPRESS CARAVANS & MOTORHOMES 146 Bridgeman street, Walsall Ws2 9Pg ) 01922 632018  paul@expresscaravans.co.uk  www.expresscaravans.co.uk servicing and repairs to all makes of caravans and motorhomes. experts in body and damp repairs. mechanical repairs and M.o.T. on motorhomes.

YORKSHIRE (EAST) FM CARAVANS LTD 169 Fountain road, Hull Hu2 0LH ) 01482 823330  info@fmcaravans.co.uk  www.fmcaravans.co.uk ncc AWs Approved Fixed Workshop of the Year 2013. coachman, elddis & Lunar approved repairers. Truma, Thetford, Alko, BPW, Alde & Whale service centre. Mobile service now available.

Business registered in scotland and working to uK legislation which may differ from that of the location.

CARAVAN & MOTORHOME STORAGE CORNWALL QUICKSTORE (SALTASH) LTD eden House, Forge Lane, saltash PL12 6LX ) 0845 130 0994  saltash@quickstore.co.uk  www.quickstore.co.uk

Keep your baby safe and dry

HAMPSHIRE

one question you might ask yourself when buying a caravan or motorhome is: where shall i keep it when not out on the road?

LUCKY-LITE CARAVAN STORAGE catherington Business Park, catherington Lane, Waterlooville Po8 0AQ ) 023 9259 6597  caravans@luckylite.co.uk  www.luckylite.co.uk

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OXFORDSHIRE BARRETTS SELF STORAGE 50 Monument Business Park, chalgrove, oxford oX44 7rW ) 01865 891406  info@barretts-selfstorage.co.uk  www.barretts-selfstorage.co.uk

WORCESTERSHIRE RIDGEWAY STORAGE ridgeway Farm, Powick, Worcester Wr2 4sn ) 01905 830745 / 07990 537408  office@ridgewaystorage.co.uk  www.ridgewaystorage.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE IN THESE DIRECTORIES CALL MARK ON 020 8297 9073

f you live on a farm or in a large detached house with a barn or sizeable garage (with high doors, if you have a motorhome!) then you’ll be suited already for winter storage. But even then, is that storage really secure?

Most of us will not have secure, dry facilities at home, and in areas where housing density is high a caravan or motorhome parked on the street or on a short driveway can be a problem for you or your neighbours. Larger units can block out light from front windows and obstruct other access requirements if the drive or hardstanding is narrow.

If you live on a street where your van is in open view, you may risk inviting thieves to survey the scene and chance their arm. Many security alarms and locks will deter the opportunist criminal, but some organised criminals

are both daring and well prepared.

The answer may well lie in submitting your cherished van to the care of a storage company. Several of these companies are specialists, and understand the needs and the wallet – many spend their own leisure time touring, too. Others are an important sideline to dealerships or touring parks – look out for storage deals at both, as the last park you visit in the season may well have secure storage.

On most storage sites you can come and go as you please to pick up your van, and there are good deals to be had on all year round storage. Many companies offering storage offer open and enclosed storage pitches, and prices depend largely on their location and level of security. As well as peace of mind, there are insurance premium benefits, too – so it’s worth looking into what’s on offer.

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deCIsIon TIme | vAn ConveRsIons

Campers: The impulsive way to travel

When you want a quick weekend away, or a day by the beach, small-scale van conversions are the answer. sally Pepper finds out more.

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wo words. Parking barriers. These are the things that make campers and van conversions the perfect solution to anyone who wants to be free to get up and go, for weekends away, work trips that are B&B free, and short holidays that happen just because the sun is out, the surf ’s up, and the fish are biting.

If you’ve ever holidayed in a large coachbuilt motorhome, you’ll know that the spacious living conditions come at a price – day trips and even outings to the supermarket can take some planning, and preferably some local knowledge.

Height barriers are typically set at 2m, though can be lower, and the average height of a motorhome is 2.8m. Insurance company Caravan Guard tells us that claims by 114 Discover Touring

motorhomers who’ve come a cropper against a parking barrier or low bridge, average a value of £2,200. So it’s mightily handy to have something with a lower roof, even if that roof can be raised once you are parked up for the night. A small camper or van conversion can be every bit as manouevrable as a medium-sized car.

It’s a really good idea to rent before you buy, and this is especially so if you are taken by the romance of a vintage VW ‘splitty,’ because the reality of using and maintaining one can be more of a challenge than people realize. Type 2 models are likely to have petrol engines and this can make them expensive to run. You might try one, find your passenger gets car sick, and conclude you’d be better off with a later VW

Transporter T5, which makes an excellent camper, or something new and reliable, in which case a new VW T2 made in the old style might better suit your needs. Danbury Motorcaravans (www.danburymotorcaravans.com) has brand new T2 Campers from £27,000, though you need to get your skates on to buy as production ends in December 2013; you could find yourself with a classic! East Coast Campers (www.eastcoastcampers.co.uk) are an example of a rental firm specialising in retro Veedubs.

Renting allows you to double check that a tiny camper will give you enough space. Many don’t have room even for a porta potti, and leave you dependent on campsite facilities, for example. You might try one and discover

deCIsIon TIme | vAn ConveRsIons deCI

approach combines low cost, with the opportunity to have a layout that exactly fits your needs. Prices for work and materials start at around £2500, and many will help with sourcing a base van as well.

It’s a good idea to look for a convertor who specialises in the base van of your choice.

Littlemovers convert Mazda Bongos, for example (www.mazda-bongo.co.uk), Torbay Camper Conversions are one of many convertors specializing in VW T4 and T5s (www.camperconversions.com), while Central Camper Conversion (www. centralcamperconversions.com) convert panel vans such as Fiat Ducatos and Mercedes Sprinters.

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Ü So What’s New?

Main image: Bilbo’s Celex, based upon the VW T5, overlooking the harbour at Brixham.

Top: Be quick if you want to order a brand new VW T2 conversion.

Production from Danbury finishes in December 2013.

Bottom: If a pint-sized van conversion is just too small for your needs, it’s worth considering those based upon the Ford Transit or Fiat Ducato, such as the Autocruise Accent shown here.

that a larger Ford Transit or Fiat Ducato van conversion better suits your needs. Every penny you spend on a week’s rental is likely to be more than a penny saved by ensuring you make the right choice first time.

There are a lot of good alternatives when it comes to the smallest, most manoeuvrable campers. The Nissan NV200 is an excellent small van, with a Renault 1.5DCi engine. Sussex Campervans (www. sussexcampervans.co.uk) do a lovely conversion with a pop-top, called the NV200 CamperCar, with prices from £25,000 for a new conversion on a low-mileage used van.

The Citroen Berlingo and the Suzuki Carry microvans are other good options for base vans. And the Fiat Doblo is ideal if you want something truly tiny, with low road tax and engine options that range from a 1.4 petrol to a 2-litre diesel. Danbury Motorcaravans offer a conversion either with an elevating roof or a factory-fitted high top roof, with prices starting at £19,000.

Converting your own

It’s possible to save quite a lot of money by choosing a secondhand van and having it converted, or going the DIY route. Parts are easily available and panel vans are available at really good prices. Windows can be cut into commercial vans, and some people even convert old ambulances, which are well insulated. The furniture from an old caravan often becomes a useful low cost source of adaptable material for the inside.

There can be issues over obtaining insurance once you’ve finished, so it’s essential to find a good source of advice if you’re tackling it yourself. Get yourself a copy of The Motorcaravan Manual by John Wickersham (Haynes) and head for the Self Build Motor Caravanners’ Club (www.sbmcc.co.uk).

There’s a members-only forum (£15 a year) with advice on any technical issue you might imagine, and classified ads too.

Or look for companies that will undertake the conversion on your behalf. This

increasing internal space while maintaining the overall size of the original base vehicle is one of the key aspects that van conversion specialists are introducing at the moment, by utilising slide-out pods. Look out for Danbury’s Doubleback, or Bilbo’s new ‘space’, being introduced at the Motorhome and caravan show in october. The ‘space’ utilises the same design and build quality as the award winning range of Bilbo’s existing campervans and has been developed by creating a range of new ‘removable pods’ that fit into the rear of the vehicle. This means it can be adapted to allow for differing life styles. says Moira Latham, owner of Bilbo’s, “The idea is to allow customers to create their own internal space for individual use, so whether it be for holding a bicycle, riding tackle, scuba diving kit or a kennel, the flexible internal space allows you to build the campervan that best suites your personal requirements.”

The Bilbo’s ‘Smart’ removable pods include: • Kitchen Pod with integral storage • Top loading storage pods • Porta-Potti pod with integral storage • Bathroom pod with cassette toilet • sleeping pod with top loading storage • cool box pod with storage • storage pod with shelf space. Further pods will be created following customer feedback.

Alternatively, adding a trailer rather than a pod provides extra space, such as the smart combo with Lunar’s new v vacanza acanza (look out ffor or Discover Touring’s test report in the next issue).

Ü Want More?

Take a look at our ‘Try Before You Buy’ feature on pages 12-16

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TOURING | GeRmaNy

Eye to Eye in Eifel caroline Mills tours germany’s eifel region, a land of ancient volcanic activity.

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uietly, and alone, we sidled into Germany almost through the back door. No roar of engines on the autobahn, no queues at aging, disused border checkpoints, just us on a tranquil, minor road carved through a block of densely planted trees in Belgium’s Hautes Fagnes Natural Park.

We, my family and I, were on our way to W discover the Eifel region, and in particular the Deutsche Vulkanstrasse, a tourist route that takes in some of the area’s most spectacular scenery. For the Eifel region is a geological wonder, an ancient volcanic area. The Vulkanstrasse, 175 miles long, connects 39 geological sites all related to the Eifel volcanoes, including the remains of craters, cinder cones, lava flows and volcanic sources. The driving route is a really good introduction to the area; follow it to every signpost and it takes you down roads and to 116 Discover Touring

places you might otherwise miss out on, or use it simply as an introduction from which to divert and discover further. We covered 130 of the 175 miles, but discovered more of this breathtakingly beautiful region along the way.

Fairytale towns

Our first stop was the stupendously pretty town of Monschau, close to the Belgian border.

Tucked into a steep-sided, wooded valley, the town’s collection of half-timbered buildings cluster around the River Rur with flowerdecked bridges and the romantic ruins of a 13th century castle above, creating an idyllic setting for enjoying a drink and a meal in the town square. You can park (or stay overnight) at the Stellplätze in Biesweg and take a short, gentle downhill walk to the town centre.

Umpteen gift shops and cafes later, we U drove the short distance to the small village

of Rurberg, on the banks of Rursee, one of three conjoined ribbon-shaped lakes. There we pitched up in the campsite-like Stellplätze, just a few giant, bounding steps (swimming cossies on already) from the lifeguarded bathing lake.

Rested, it was time to explore the lakeland area further, and we took off for a hike into the Eifel National Park, a tiny area by comparison to the vast region. Walking in the shade, first alongside the dark and mysterious Urftsee, we turned ‘inland’ to climb under the canopy of trees that covers the Kermeter, a steep hill that sits between Urftsee and Rursee. Out into hot sun at the top, brushing past the sweet scent of broom, we saw superb views of both lakes sparkling below.

A National Park

U with the early-morning swimmers the Up following day, we took a boat trip into the

TOURING | GeRmaNy Main image: Monschau is an idyllic village on the River Rur, close to the Belgian border.

Top: Rursee provides the opportunity to see the Eifel region from the water.

Middle: A silver-washed fritillary butterfly sunbathes in the Eifel National Park.

Bottom: On the Vulkanstrasse from Steffeln to Duppach; the roads are generally quiet and very appealing.

national park along Urftsee, through a gorgelike valley lined with beech, oak, silver birch and pine. The peace was sublime, and a walk across the towering dam wall provided a display of interconnecting wooded valleys. My suggestion of walking back along the lakeside foot and cycle track was instantly dismissed in favour of a return boat trip, after which we gathered our belongings together to continue on our way to Blankenheim, the second timberframed town we’d come across in as many days.

Like Monschau, it too had a towering-high Rapunzel-like castle, and we parked up in the Stellplätze by the pretty River Ahr, little more than a bubbling stream. Supper concluded and spying signposts for a five-mile circular walk from our pitch, we strolled through woods, over hills and along riverside pastures to see more of this beautiful countryside.

The Volcano Route

I was not until our third day in the area It that we actually took to the Vulkanstrasse.

Beginning and ending in Laacher See in the northeast of the region and Manderscheid to the south, we picked up the route at Hillesheim and drove initially southwest-ish, passing through gently rolling countryside and pretty villages along quiet, rural lanes. Crossing the River Kyll at Birresborn, the road took us on an incredibly picturesque climb through the Salm Forest, thronging with butterflies and with occasional views through open glades of the valley below.

Passing through Manderscheid, we spied two medieval castles within yards of one another. The town was once a border post between two warring principalities within the Eifel region; the Upper Castle (and the town) belonged to Trier, while the large Lower Castle to Luxembourg as the ancestral seat of the Counts of Manderscheid, one of the most powerful aristocratic families of the region.

Guards in the huge towers, eyed one another suspiciously for centures across a ridge that is just a few paces long.

We joined the Vulkanstrasse again at W Holzmaar, a lake created from a volcanic crater – and obviously so by its roundedness. Surrounded by woods in a nature reserve, it only takes a few minutes to walk right around the lakeside, but it’s well worth enjoying its serenity. Just a few miles further, is the larger Pulvermaar. Also a volcanic crater, this lake is popular with bathers and has a campsite adjacent.

We stopped off in Bad Bertrich, accessed down a steep, hair-pin hill. This ribbon town surrounded by densely-covered cliff-like mountains is lined with decorative villas and hotels. It is still very much a spa town with health clinics and large thermal baths and, it seemed that, of the seven ages of man, those visiting Bad Bertrich are of the latter.

Our children looked very much out of place.

Nonetheless, it is a restful town, and the climb out towards Lutzerath, our stopping place for the night, provided superb views of wooded crevices.

The Nürbergring

Our final day in the region continued along the Vulkanstrasse, with a minor detour to visit the Nürbergring. Known to millions as the venue for the German Formula One Grand Prix, we could wander around at our leisure, and could have visited the Ring˚Werk centre on site, for lots of motor-racing based activities.

Instead we stopped off at one of the large spectator areas to watch adrenalin-fuelled cars hurtle around the Nordschleife 20km circuit,

described as, ‘the world’s most beautiful country road without oncoming traffic’. With speeds that involved screeching brakes, I’m not sure how much of the scenery the drivers actually saw – including the red squirrel that diced with danger as it scampered across the tarmac - while they twisted and turned on hairpin bends, blind corners and frightening cambers. Suffice to say, the immediate area around the track (you can walk right alongside), much like the rest of the Eifel region, is indeed beautiful.

Passing Hohe Acht, the region’s highest ‘mountain’ at 747 metres – and the remnant of a volcano – we ventured on through scenic villages of Weibern and Brenk before finishing our tour at Laacher See, the largest of the volcanic lakes, next to which sits the attractive Benedictine Abbey of Maria-Laach.

There were no fiery explosions upon our journey, no earth tremours or giant eruptions of ash clouds in this ancient volcanic landscape. What we did see is a stunning rural vista, worthy of a return visit.

How to get there: We travelled by DFDS Seaways (www.dfdsseaways.co.uk) from Dover to Dunkirk. The Eifel region is within half a day’s drive from the ferry port, using the motorway through Belgium. We found all roads in the region to be quiet, easy and very pleasant to drive along.

Having completed the Vulkanstrasse, you could add on a tour of the Rhine and Mosel wine routes, as these rivers run within a few miles of Laacher See (the end of the Vulkanstrasse).

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Ü Discover Where to Stay: rather than campsites, we stayed at Stellplätze throughout our visit to the region. These were at rurberg, Blankenheim, Lutzerath and Menzig.

All are well signposted upon entering the towns and villages. There are further Stellplätze at gerolstein, Andernach, Mayen, gillenfeld, Monschau and nürberg.

Ü Discover More: www.deutsche-vulkanstrasse.com www.eifel.info www.germany.travel

Ü Want More?

The feature on page 120 provides a guide on how to use stellplätze.

Discover Touring 117

RevIew | FeNDT

new for 2014: Fendt Discover Touring offers a sneak preview of german manufacturer Fendt’s 2014 range.

The exterior of the Opal 550. And the interior of the Opal 560.

The exterior of the Diamant 515. And the interior of the Diamant 560.

Fendt is perhaps better known to our continental cousins than to UK caravanners. With an illustrious history in producing quality, luxurious ‘vans, it’s no surprise that the 2014 range development does not disappoint.

Fendt Diamond (Diamant in Germany)

Fendt Vogue (Opal in Germany)

Like most Fendt Caravans, each Vogue model is designed for up to 4 people and the models vary from 7m to 8.6m long. These are certainly eye-catching ‘vans, inside and out. With 11 different layout options the Vogue offers a bespoke feel. Four of the options allow for an enclosed double bed at 2.3m long – ideal for taller people. Layout options also offer good privacy from living areas.

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As the name suggests, Diamond is the epitome of luxury, and the jewel in Fendt’s crown. The kitchen cuts no corners and is equipped to a high standard, boasting a 140 litre fridge freezer. The hob and sink can be readily transformed into an additional worktop. The living area is set off with white leather seating. The hotel standard shower room oozes class. Home comforts abound here.

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Ü Discover More: For more information on Fendt’s extensive range of options and 360 degree views visit their english language website at http://www.fendt-caravan.com/en.html

TOURING | FRaNce

A warm welcome in Brittany The province of Brittany is blessed with dramatic and rugged coastlines on the channel, the celtic sea, and the Atlantic ocean to the West and Author: Adrian Bates the Bay of Biscay to the south.

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ur trip to Brittany starts with a leisurely ferry crossing – usually just enough time to clear the cobwebs, grab forty winks, grab a lungful or two of sea air and research the next leg of the journey.

This time is a little different. Normally in the summer I would just grab my kit, hook up the caravan and head off – just me and my wife on a one-way ticket - and come back when we are done. So when Discover Touring asked me to share my latest Brittany adventure with you, I felt obliged to plan our travels ahead. Our trip lasted 18 days and we stayed at a number of small independent sites along the way.

We love walking the coastal paths and canal ways stopping in for a pastis, cider or coffee at a local tabac or village centre café, and always try to navigate between a four mile and 10 mile circuit.

Here’s our pick of some of the must see destinations and the stunning and varied walks we would recommend to adults or families.

the need to protect a rare flower found here, the Narcissus of Glénan, which you can find in the wild.

Guiautec Island is best known as a bird sanctuary and nature reserve.

The Islands The Glenan archipelago is a group of islands 20 kilometres off the Finistére coast south of Fouesnant.

The most important island in the group is Saint-Nicholas along with its sister island Bananec which can be reached on foot at low tide from Saint-Nicholas. The Île du Loc’h is the largest island in the group, and is private property. A quiet group of islands, even bikes are not permitted - so bring walking shoes and leave the bikes at the campsite! Even if you are not here for the excellent diving you will be rewarded with quiet beaches and emerald green seas.

Facilities are limited on the island, but there are two restaurants open during the summer. The Glénan islands no longer have any permanent residents.

Réserve Naturelle de St-Nicholas des Glénans was established on the island due to

Ouessant The island of Ushant (Ouessant in French), 18 miles (30km) off the coast of Le Conquet, is where you’ll find France’s most westerly point, Pointe de Pern. The island is well known for its lighthouses and treacherous seafaring heritage but especially for its indigenous sheep.

Batz A 15-minute boat ride from Roscoff, the Île de Batz (pronounced ‘ba’) is a hidden gem that is worth seeking out. The main attraction is its exotic garden but there are also some lovely beaches, leisurely walks and great views from the top of the lighthouse.

Bréhat Off the coast of Paimpol is Île de Bréhat, one of Brittany’s loveliest islands. In actual fact, Bréhat consists of several islets around two small, car-free islands, which are joined by a bridge at low tide. It is easily accessible by a regular 10-minute boat journey from Pointe de l’Arcouest.

Coastal walks GR34 Saint Malo – this walk starts from the ramparts of the walled city of St Malo and ends in the fashionable resort of Dinan on the other side of the River Rance Estuary.

The route follows long distance footpath GR34 and includes some excellent views and many historical sights, including the battlements of the Cité d’Aleth and the panoramic views of the estuary at Pointe de la Jument and Pointe de la Vicomte.

Towards the end of the route you can take a

ferry across the Rance, and then take in the magnificent Victorian Gothic villas.

Sillon de Talbert A narrow spit of sand and pebbles that stretches into the sea off the Côtes d’Armor for about three kilometres. A protected site, it is home to numerous bird species.

A seaweed called wrack is farmed here, then harvested and dried. You can walk along the spit to the end.

Baie de Lannion Despite being set significantly back from the sea on the estuary of the River Léguer, Lannion gives its name to the next bay west along the Breton coast – and it’s the bay rather than the town that is most likely to impress visitors. One enormous beach stretches from St-Michel-en-Grève, which is little more than a bend in the road, as far as Locquirec; at low tide you can walk hundreds of metres out on the sands.

Inland trails Josselin is a must-visit on any tour of the Breton heartlands. From its medieval castle to the doll museum, and from its attractive old town to canal-based fun or forest walks, there’s something to interest all members of the family. We found it a great idea to stop for a crépe cré and a glass of cider along the impressive Nantes-Brest Canal.

Brittany has so much variety and appeal that one trip simply won’t do it justice. The people are warm and welcoming – fiercely Breton, many of them – with the customary Celtic passion and charm. The rural and coastal campsites are so many and so varied that we never stay at the same site twice.

Brittany offers a new discovery each time we go, and our trusty caravan is the perfect base from which to explore, wherever we decide to pitch up.

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Discover Touring 119

PLANNING | Touring Abroad

All about Aires Touring Europe with a ‘van doesn’t have to involve campsites.

For true freedom of the open road, there are alternatives.

Discover Touring shows you the way.

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ampsites are great for staying in one place for a week or a fortnight.

Sometimes, however, they can be restrictive especially if you wish to arrive or depart at a time to suit you rather than the campsite, you don’t wish to book in advance or you’re not sure where or when you want to stop for the night. Continental Europe provides hundreds of legal overnight stopping places that give you complete freedom to come and go as you please.

What’s in a name? Each country tends

to call the overnight stops by a different name.

In France they are called Aires de Service/ Stationment pour Camping-Car, in Italy Aree di Sosta. Germany names them Stellplätze or Reisemobileplätze. Whatever their name, they are very similar in the way they work. Some are little more than parking areas, others will look akin to a small campsite. Whatever the option, they are usually far cheaper (often free) than staying at campsites, great for touring on a budget or extended touring.

Aires de Service: French law dictates that aires are only for motorhomes. With over 2000 aires throughout the country, they are sited in many villages and towns, along riverbanks, in the mountains or along the coast. They can be created specifically, or may be a small section of a municipal car park in the village square or, often, a sports complex or leisure centre. There may be a small charge (anything up to five Euros) for an overnight stay, though this is usually at the busier town and city aires, where the cost will give you 24 hours parking – a great opportunity for visiting larger towns and cities.

Most aires, though not all, provide facilities for emptying cassette toilets, waste water, rubbish disposal and filling up with fresh 120 Discover Touring

water. Occasionally, electric points are also available. Again, these facilities are often provided free of charge, while others request a small fee, usually 50 cents or one Euro.

Stellplätze: All German stellplätze are open to motorhomes while many are also open to caravans. A very useful (essential if you use stellplätze regularly) guide to have is the annual Bord Atlas, which provides maps and details of every stellplätze, including the type of van allowed on site. Like aires, there may be a small charge involved, but you’ll often find electric hook-ups on site and almost every stellplätz provides essential facilities. Stellplätze are well signposted upon entering towns and villages.

France Passion : The France Passion

scheme is a tourer’s dream for overnight stays.

Upon the purchase of an annual membership book (currently £24.99), detailing all the available places to stop in France, motorhomes may stay for one night free of charge at private residences. These are usually farms, vineyards, orchards or restaurants, with the idea being that, in exchange for a free overnight stop, you may wish (although there is never an obligation) to purchase a bottle of wine direct from the vineyard, a local jar of honey or sample some regional produce. You must be completely selfcontained as waste facilities are not provided (use the facilities on aires) and you do not book in advance; simply turn up.

A guide to using Aires and Stellplätze Aires and Stellplätze work on a first come, first served basis without reservations. It’s rarely a problem, but popular tourist towns can fill up fast at weekends so be prepared to look for an alternative.

Where payment is required – either for the overnight stay, using electric hookups or obtaining a fresh water supply – it is usually via coin operated service points. Occasionally, these service points require the purchase of a token (jeton), available at a tourist information centre, town hall or local shop (the service point will indicate where). To avoid getting caught short, it’s worth stocking up on a few commonly-used tokens.

Always have a good quantity of change for service points too – 50 cent and One Euro coins are the most common denominations required.

Use the service points to empty cassette toilets (nearly always available free of charge even if there is a charge for fresh water) and fill up with fresh water whenever possible, just in case facilities are unavailable at the next stopping point. Carry a couple of bottles of fresh water and a length of hose with you and a combination of threaded tap connectors (15mm is the most common though occasionally 25mm connectors are used).

If there is one downside to using aires and stellplätze, it is the lack of security that is virtually guaranteed with a campsite. Generally aires and stellplätze are perfectly safe, but consider alternative locations and be prepared to move on if you don’t feel comfortable.

Aires and stellplätze give you the freedom to come and go as you wish.

Out of courtesy for other users though, late night arrivals and early morning departures should be done as quickly and quietly as possible.

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Ü Discover More: The Bord Atlas guide to German stellplätze (in German), the France Passion guide (multi-language) and ‘All the Aires: France’, a very useful English-language guide with pictures, descriptions and directions to all French aires, are available from Vicarious Books (www.vicariousbooks.co.uk). These are must-have guides for those keen to use alternatives to campsites.

See the feature of touring the Eifel region of Germany (pages 116-117), while staying at Stellplätze.

PRACTICAL | FoResT CAmPIng

For the love of trees

Main: Camping in the forest lets you get back to nature and come face-to-face with wildlife. ©Caroline Mills Left: Whether it’s climbing trees or searching for bugs, there’s always something to do at woodland campsites. ©Caroline Mills

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get close to nature by camping in the forest.

Discover Touring leads you into the woods to find where to stay.

122 Discover Touring

here’s something primeval about camping in the woods, some sort of ancestral stirring in the soul that makes an overnight stay under a canopy of trees exhilarating. Whether it’s the hoot of an owl on a moonlit night, the dart of a hunting bat or the crunch of leaves underfoot on a crisp winter walk, forest camping will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Close to nature

Telling ghost stories late at night and toasting marshmallows are not the only activities fit for a woodland camping adventure. Being surrounded by trees

provides the perfect opportunity to discover more of the natural world.

Bug hunts, scavenger trails, route-finding games and bushcraft are all a part of family camping in the forest. And, if you’d like to learn more from free-ranging experts, the Forest Rangers at Camping in the Forest sites (www.campingintheforest.co.uk) will guide you on numerous activities through the woods. They’ll take you on night walks and teach you how to use night vision equipment to watch wildlife after dark, or help you with ancestral survival skills like shelter building and foraging for food. u

PRACTICAL | FoResT CAmPIng

Ü Discover Where to Stay: Wareham Forest Tourist Park

The beauty of this campsite is its location – with its own access into Wareham Forest.

The sika deer roam freely there and they often venture onto the campsite during the winter. open all year.

North Trigon, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 7NZ Tel 01929 551393 www.warehamforest.co.uk

Postern Hill Caravan & Camping Site

A large site in the savernake Forest, run by the camping & caravanning club in conjunction with the Forestry commission. Pitches are informal and wildlife is encouraged through a number of nature-friendly features. Forest rangers on site with nature-based activities available. open all year.

Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 4ND Tel 01672 515195 www.campingintheforest.co.uk

Cwmcarn Forest Campsite The forest is great to explore by bike, on foot or in the car/van – head into the hills on the Forest Drive to see some stunning views. The visitor centre provides all the information you need on the area. open May to october.

Cwmcarn Forest Visitor Centre, Cwmcarn, Crosskeys, NP11 7FA Tel 01495 272001 www.caerphilly.gov.uk/cwmcarnforest

Coniston Park Coppice

campsite located in a 63-acre national Trust woodland on the shores of coniston Water in the Lake District. There’s a

Ü Respect the environment:

launching point for dinghy sailing, windsurfing and canoeing too. no tents.

Park Gate, Coniston LA21 8LA Tel 01539 441555 www.caravanclub.co.uk/con

The Dower House Touring Park

A secluded woodland glade surrounded by the vast Thetford Forest, with miles of woodland walks direct from the campsite. Pitches are informal. The site has been awarded the David Bellamy gold conservation Award for many years for their contribution to encouraging wildlife.

Thetford Forest, East Harling, Norfolk, NR16 2SE Tel 01953 717314 www.dowerhouse.co.uk

Wellington Country Park

Pitches are sited in an informal layout within deciduous woodland. The campsite is just a small part of a larger country park, connected to stratfield saye House, the ancestral home of napoleon’s victor, the Duke of Wellington. red and fallow deer roam next to the campsite. extra-strong tent pegs required for forest-floor ground.

Odiham Road, Riseley, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 1SP Tel 0118 932 6444

camping in the woods may once have been essential for our ancestors to exist.

Today it is a privilege and, as such, all campers should respect the environment within which they stay. Most campsites will ask you to abide by a few, common sense, rules; in the forest this becomes crucial for the survival of the woods and its occupants.

• Forest campsites, in general, do not allow campfires for obvious safety reasons.

Those that do will almost certainly provide you with wood. observe any fire restrictions – including those associated with barbecues – and do not cut down trees to create a campfire.

• only pitch in designated areas to avoid damaging the undergrowth.

• Do not leave food scraps lying around

to avoid either endangering the wildlife in the woods or encouraging vermin around camping areas. ideally store food in sealed containers (or in a car) when camping in tents.

• Pick up all your rubbish and don’t leave anything behind.

• remember that the woods can also be a Denny Wood Campsite

A camping in the Forest site run jointly between the camping & caravanning club and Forestry commission. Pleasant open glades and parkland-style woodland made up of oak, beech and chestnut trees. Wild new Forest ponies roam throughout the campsite. Barbecues allowed.

Beaulieu Road, Lyndhurst Hampshire, SO43 7FZ Tel 02380 293144 www.campingintheforest.co.uk

working environment so avoid entering areas that are cordoned off for treefelling or maintenance.

• Foraging for wild food is currently

fashionable but don’t pick wild flowers or, for your own well being, anything that you’re unsure of as safe to eat.

• Keep dogs on a lead at all times.

• in order to respect and protect the

countryside, follow the countryside code. You can see a copy of these basic rules at www.naturalengland.org.uk/ countrysidecode

Discover Touring 123

Activity | autumn camping

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ACTIvITy | AuTumn CAmPIng

Stretching the camping season

Main: Keep on camping through the autumn to enjoy quieter campsites.

Top right and middle (tents): Use a tent that has additional living areas in case of wet weather or to store muddy boots, so that you can keep sleeping areas clean and dry. Gelert’s ‘Bliss’ and ‘Ottawa’ tents are ideal, and have been tested in wet and windy weather. Credit: ©Gelert Middle left: The Gelert Pinnacle 400DL sleeping bag provides added warmth for cooler nights.

Credit: ©Gelert

There’s no need to put that tent away in the attic just yet. Caroline Mills offers some advice on extending the season for camping right into winter.

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ho says that the camping season is over as soon as the summer holidays have been and gone and the first frosts touch down? Campers are losing out on some potentially fabulous sunny autumn days if the tent is packed away too soon. Campsites generally lower their prices out of season and many have facilities that will provide plenty of comfort for the cooler months. Fabric technology in the manufacture of tents and sleeping bags has moved on too making outof-season camping an easy option.

Sleeping arrangements

Feeling cosy and warm, especially at night, is what will ultimately determine whether your autumnal camping trip is a success. So being prepared by having the right kind of bedding will help.

Using an airbed to stay off damp ground is a good start, but it’s what you’re sleeping in that will help the most.

Sleeping bags work by trapping warmed air inside its insulated filling, which is the most important aspect of the bag. Bags are rated according to their insulation properties; a ‘three-season’ bag is suitable for everything except a really hard winter while a ‘fourseason’ bag is considered for all-year-round use, and tapered bags tend to retain their heat more than rectangular bags. There is also the possibility of adding a fleece liner to your bag for added warmth.

Unpack your sleeping bag as soon as you can to allow the loft and insulation properties to recover. This will make it far warmer than climbing into a just-unrolled bag. Place a hot water bottle inside half an hour before bed so that it’s toasty warm and remember that if you’re cold when you climb in, you’ll stay cold so get warm before bed. Sleeping bags also lose some of their insulation value when damp so sleep with your head out of the bag to avoid a moisture build up – you can always where a hat in bed as your body loses most of its heat through your head. Packing additional fleece blankets, and popping a duvet, mattress topper or picnic rug beneath your sleeping bag will make a comfortable night’s sleep.

Hearty fare

It goes without saying that eating well – and eating the right kinds of foods – will help you to keep warm throughout the night, so aim for hearty stews, soups and other nourishing hot meals.

For safety, cooking on a gas stove should never be done inside a tent. If it’s raining and there’s a campers’ kitchen on site, use that, otherwise try to cook under an awning or porch. Keep the stove away from any tent walls, make sure that there is plenty of ventilation (if you have to cook inside a porch area) and avoid cooking in the tent doorway, as it may block your main fire escape. Cookers with windshields will provide additional protection against the elements.

Where to stay

Under canvas

Like sleeping bags, tents are also given a rating – according to how waterproof they are. For all-year-round use, look for tents with a rating of three- (spring/summer/ autumn) or four-season (all year) and ideally a water resistance of 2,000mm, which is considered suitable for all-year use.

Most tents these days incorporate a waterproof groundsheet, but having a tent with an additional living area and/or porch will prevent sleeping areas from getting dirty or damp. A porch also allows you to cook outside while remaining undercover.

Many campsites now stay open all year and are geared up for out-of-season camping.

Head for a site that has heating in the toilet and shower areas, and with plenty of hot water. A campers’ kitchen is useful to avoid cooking in the rain and any site with indoor lounge areas or a games room to get out of the cold, though check that bars and restaurants will be open as some campsites reduce their facilities in the winter months.

Sites with electric hook-ups will also allow you to run lamps after dark, otherwise look for a site that will allow campfires to brighten and warm dark evenings.

Finally, it might be worth considering a site that provides additional accommodation such as camping pods, so that if it’s just too cold at night, you can always move indoors! u Discover Touring 125

ACTIvITy | AuTumn CAmPIng

Ü Discover Where to Stay: Recommended sites for autumn (and winter) camping.

Anita’s Touring Park

Tanner Farm Park

Hopleys Farm Camping

Castlerigg Farm Camping & Caravan Site

Direct access to tent pitches off gravel tracks, electric hook-ups and five camping pods, if the weather turns, makes Anita’s ideal for winter camping. There’s a wellstocked shop on site plus numerous good pubs within a few miles to feed up on hearty food.

The Yews, Mollington, Banbury, Oxon, OX17 1AZ Tel 01295 750731 www.anitascaravanandcottages.co.uk You can take your own tent to Hopleys and take advantage of pitches with electric hook-up or hire one of their two tipis, furnished ready for autumn/winter camping with a wood-burning stove and rugs. Pitches proviede delightful views of the Worcestershire countryside and severn v valley . campfire baskets are encouraged and homecooked pizzas are available on site from their pizza oven.

Cleobury Rd, Bewdley, Worcs, DY12 2QL Tel 01299 402173 www.hopleyscamping.co.uk

Church Farm Camping & Caravan Park

Five separate areas within enclosed paddocks provide for differing campers needs; families (where children are allowed to play ball games uninhibited), adults only, groups etc. High hedges and screening provide cosy niches, but there are also some stunning views of the cranborne chase AonB within which the site sits. recently upgraded facilities include a new amenity area, a unisex family bathroom; disabled facilities are accommodated too. Plus ‘The shed’, restaurant and bar, open all day, offers a light and airy conservatory-style building.

Sixpenny Handley Salisbury, Wiltshire SP5 5ND Tel 01725 552563 www.churchfarmcandcpark.co.uk From top to bottom: Anita’s Touring Park.

Hopleys Farm Camping.

Church Farm Camping & Caravan Park.

Tanner Farm Park.

Castlerigg Farm Camping & Caravan Site.

126 Discover Touring

centrally heated shower and toilet blocks plus a laundry room will help campers keep beautifully clean during a winter holiday at Tanner Farm Park. And with all the walks available direct from the campsite plus the chance to meet the resident goats, sheep, pigs, chickens and shire horses, a regular change of clothes might be required.

Goudhurst Rd, Marden Kent, TN12 9ND Tel 01622 832999 www.tannerfarmpark.co.uk

You cannot ask for better views than those obtained while staying at castlerigg Farm – a complete 360˚ panorama, including that of Derwentwater. While hot showers in a heated amenity block will help autumn campers freshen up, the log-burning stove in the Hayloft café, afé, serving hot meals, will af keep you toasty warm. Perfect for enjoying the first frosts before the site closes at the end of october, castlerigg Farm reopens at the beginning of March, so you can enjoy an early spring too.

Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4TE Tel 01768 772479 www.castleriggfarm.co.uk

Broadhembury Caravan and Camping Park

centrally heated toilets and showers with ‘masses’ of hot water is how Broadhembury describes its five-star facilities, together with an en-suite shower and toilet that is fully accessible to wheelchair users. Keith and Jenny are now celebrating over forty years at Broadhembury so they must be doing something right!

Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth Ashford, Kent TN26 1NQ Tel 01233 620918 www.broadhembury.co.uk

Ü Want More? see the feature eature on pages 122-123, camping in the Forest. caroline Mills is the author of The camping Pocket Bible (crimson Publishing; rrP P £9.99).

Discover Touring 127

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CARAvAns on The FRonT LIne

Author: Angela Cox

2014 commemorates the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. claiming the lives of over 16 million troops and civilians worldwide, this devastating conflict had an unimaginable impact on every aspect of society and daily life. We take a look at the role played by caravan club members during the First World War, and the contribution that the organisation made to the war effort.

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n June 1914 around 100 Caravan Club members met in a field at Cadnam on the edge of the New Forest. Weeklong gatherings known as ‘Meets’ (today commonly termed ‘Rallies’) were a popular date in The Club’s calendar, and this was the largest event of its kind that had been organised. This was a time when the popularity of horse-drawn caravanning was booming among wealthy men and women, swapping their busy lifestyles in industrialised cities for breaks touring the countryside. The Caravan Club was going from strength to strength, with numerous

high profile names on its books, most from a privileged class with the time and money to afford holidays. As Club members relaxed in the tranquil setting of the New Forest, with their beautifully modelled horse-drawn caravans spread across the glades and valleys, little did they know how dramatically life was about to change. Two months later on 4th August 1914 Britain declared war on Germany and so began one of the most devastating conflicts in modern history, the First World War. Only a few days after the outbreak of war, the active recruitment of volunteers

to the army began. Yet for a short time life in Britain carried on as normal for many who believed that it would be ‘over

by Christmas’. The Caravan Club was no exception and many members continued to enjoy their leisure time at the planned Meet at Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire during 15th to 24th August. Yet as 1915 dawned the War showed no signs of ending, with increasingly fierce fighting and high numbers of casualties, the impact of the conflict began to set in.

Young and fit

A number of Caravan Club members u Discover Touring 129

history | Last Words

Main image: Hutchings Winchester caravans being used to treat the walking wounded at the Battle of Bazentin Ridge, 1916. Image Courtesy of the Imperial War Museum.

a business that had been gathering pace, and Hutchings himself being rejected from active service due to a disability, he must have felt disheartened. Yet he recognised that caravans held great potential in supporting the war effort. The mobility of caravans made them a perfect shelter amidst a constantly shifting front line. Hutchings sent several caravans from his former hire fleet across the channel, where they were used as mobile units for the Red Cross and as officers’ quarters. Due to the success of caravans on the battlefield he continued to build them throughout the conflict and by 1915 diversified from horse drawn vans to his first motor caravan, which was commissioned by the Royal Naval Division.

Top left: A Royal Naval Division mobile recruitment office, the first caravan on a motor chassis built by Bertram Hutchings of Winchester, pictured in a suit at the top of the ladder, 1915.

Hutchings’ lead

Top middle: Caravan Club member Major Cecil Wedgwood DSO who lost his life in the Battle of the Somme in 1916. Image Courtesy of the Wedgwood Museum, Barlaston, UK. Top right: One of the many leisure caravans offered by Caravan Club members in support of the war effort. This van owned by Miss E.F. Hamilton was never returned to its owner.

deemed young and fit enough for active service found themselves on the front line, with some never to return. Major Cecil Wedgwood was one such member. As Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent and Chairman of the world famous Wedgwood Pottery, he would have been typical of the wealthy and influential persons attracted to The Caravan Club in its pioneering days. Having been decorated with a DSO in 1902 for service in the Boer War, he raised the 8th Battalion North Staffordshire Regiment in 1914. Only two years later he was killed while leading his troops at La Boisselle during the Battle of the Somme. Other members served to great distinction behind the front line such as Captain Sir George Mansfield SmithCumming, the first Director of the Secret Intelligence Service, today more commonly known as MI6. Meanwhile, those who were too old for active service, like Club founder and Honorary Secretary J Harris Stone, supported in other ways. Harris Stone, then in his sixties, joined the Civil Service as a clerk in the Petrol Control Department of the Board of Trade. Here, in a time of rationing, he interviewed people from all walks of life, assessing each applicant’s need for fuel. Harris Stone juggled his role with The Caravan Club throughout the War years, yet others such as the Honorary Treasurer Mr E. Bennett resigned their Club commitments due to heavy workloads resulting from the conflict. Many women members would have also found themselves occupied with war work, with some entering the workforce for the first time, either filling vacancies left by men at war or by taking on roles in nursing.

130 Disc Discover over Touring

Low-key affair

As men and women were increasingly consumed with war work, leisure time became an impossible luxury. The last wartime Caravan Club Meet was held in June 1915, an event that did not return until 1920. This low-key affair took place at The Club’s permanent pitch in Highgate, London. In contrast to peacetime events where the public and press were openly invited to promote The Caravan Club, this Meet was to ‘be conducted in as private a manner as possible’ out of respect for those that had already lost their lives. In addition horses were now in extremely high demand for roles in the cavalry and to tow heavy goods and ammunition on the battlefield, making any leisure use of horses frivolous.

The Government requisitioned hundreds of thousands of horses from across Britain at a time when motorised technology was still in its infancy. Leisure caravanning was now put on hold until after the war, this would have seemed insignificant to caravanners in a time of such sacrifice. For some Caravan Club members however, caravanning was not only their hobby but their livelihood, and for them the war was likely to have a much more destructive impact.

One such member was Bertram Hutchings of Winchester in Hampshire who, having founded a caravan building business in 1911, was rapidly building an excellent reputation as both a manufacturer and owner of a hire fleet.

Even founder of The Caravan Club, J Harris Stone had given Hutchings his seal of approval, attending the last pre-war Meet in one of the 15 caravans from Hutchings’ hire fleet. At the onset of the First World War all twelve of Hutchings’ horses were commandeered for the front line. With the threat of closing down

Other Caravan Club members also followed Hutchings’ lead, supplying their caravans in support of war work. At The Club’s Annual Meeting of 1916 the Chairman reported on ‘the aid the Club had afforded to many branches of War organisations, notably of the supply of caravans for the Red Cross, for nurses, for officers at field (camps), for munition workers’. Caravans sent to the front line included two dainty caravans of Miss E.F. Hamilton, and these beloved vans were never to return. As the conflict came to a conclusion The Caravan Club was given one last task. Field Marshal Haig sent an urgent request for caravans for use by officers, enabling them to plan on the move while pursuing the retreating enemy. Harris Stone worked throughout the night sending telegrams to every caravanner who might be able to help. Working together, Caravan Club members achieved the incredible feat of supplying 50 caravans to the front line in only 48 hours.

As the First World War came to an end, a changed world emerged. The catastrophic loss of lives left Britain with a new social order, and those returning from the front line held new expectations of life and had a bonus in their pocket for which to pursue them.

After years of battle and sacrifice, holidays were sought-after more than ever before.

A number of men, inspired by the incredible advances in motorised technology they had witnessed on the battlefield, looked to turn this opportunity into a business venture.

Coupled with an abundance of surplus exwar materials being sold at knocked-down prices, a new type of caravan was born to rival the horse-drawn version. This was the modern trailer caravan, designed to be towed by the motorcar, and it was set to change the face of caravanning forever.

In the next edition discover the legacy that the First World War left on caravanning and The Caravan Club. Find out more about the history of The Caravan Club at www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk

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