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WORTH OVER £1,000
JULY 2021
HEAD FOR THE COAST Brilliant breaks by the beach
INSPIRATION
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● A fab week on the Isle of Wight ● 10 awesome seaside campsites ● Explore Ireland’s magical coast
HOW TO SET UP INSIDE YOUR TENT
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE! SELF-CONTAINED CAMPING
CAN YOU FIX IT? TENT REPAIRS AND CARE MADE EASY
HAPPY GLAMPING Luxury tents from Karsten, Outwell, Snow Peak, Robens and Easy Camp reviewed JULY 2021 £4.99 07
COASTAL CAMPING
17 REASONS TO PITCH UP BY THE SEA
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COLEMAN® WEATHERMASTER AIR TENT RANGE Available as: 4 Air, 4XL Air, 6XL Air, 8 XL Air BlackOut Bedroom® for a better night’s sleep: blocks up to 99%* of daylight from entering your bedroom! *based on Coleman® light measurement testing report #7489
For further details on Weathermaster Air and all our 2021 tents visit Coleman.eu/uk @Coleman.UK
FastPitch™ Air inflatable poles Enclosed, integrated front porch (XL Air) Up to 6000mm Hydrostatic Head
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WELCOME July 2021
T
he schools are just about to break up for the summer and, all going well, we’ll soon be enjoying our holidays. I think we can all agree that we need one! Foreign trips are still a bit risky for my liking, so, like tens of thousands of others, our plan is to head for the UK coast for our big summer camping getaway. I’ve been flying the flag for British holidays for as long as I can remember and camping by the sea is always my favourite. And on page 14 of this issue you can read why I do love to be beside the seaside – all 17 reasons! You’ll also find a selection of our favourite British seaside resorts, 10 top coastal campsites, and how to enjoy the perfect week on the Isle of Wight. If you do fancy travelling a bit further afield (and the rules allow it), how about Ireland? County Kerry’s stunning coastline is a fantastic
camping destination and you can read more about it on page 32. One of the more unexpected things to have come out of the last 18 months has been the number of people taking up camping for the first time. Obviously, this is a good thing, but it does have some surprising side effects, one being the huge demand for tents. Most are made in China and as a result of pandemicrelated factory shutdowns, production has been dramatically curtailed over the last year. The shortage of shipping containers has also affected the transportation to Europe – and that was only worsened by the closure of the Suez Canal earlier this year. And don't forget Brexit. One manufacturer even told me that the political instability in Myanmar has had a knock-on effect on tent production!
CONTACTS O PARKS ADVERTISING
HEAD OF CONTENT DANIEL ATTWOOD danielattwood@warnersgroup.co.uk EDITOR IAIN DUFF 01778 392442 | iaind@warnersgroup.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Iain Duff, Gary Cross, Vicky Lacy, Gillian Law, Liz Morrell, Lynn Osborne, Claire Tupholme EDITORIAL DESIGN Lisa Watson-Bailey
PARKS ADVERTISING MANAGER Ashleigh Chadwick 01778 392050 | ashleigh.chadwick@warnersgroup.co.uk PARKS ACCOUNTS MANAGER Connor Jackson 01778 392057 | connor.jackson@warnersgroup.co.uk
GROUP HEAD OF ADVERTISING Fleur Chivers 01778 392071 | fleurc@warnersgroup.co.uk KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Zellah Knowles 01778 392093 | zellahk@warnersgroup.co.uk MULTIMEDIA SALES EXECUTIVE Sue Bullock 01778 391079 | sueb@warnersgroup.co.uk
O AD DESIGN & PRODUCTION Viv Lane | 01778 392453 viv.lane@warnersgroup.co.uk Karen Wayman | 01778 395075 karen.wayman@warnersgroup.co.uk
Happy camping!
Iain Duff, Editor
COVER PICTURE: Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall stock.adobe.com/emzet70
O EDITORIAL
O ADVERTISING
Combined with the massive increase in demand, it’s been a perfect storm, causing stock shortages and delays in delivery. Frustrating for you, the tent buyer, but possibly understandable in the circumstances. Thankfully, it looks like the problems are easing but the message is definitely to buy as early as you can, especially if there’s a specific product you have in mind. Hopefully you'll find the tent of your dreams and we’ll see you out there this summer.
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O MARKETING BRAND MANAGER Lucie Cox 01778 395016 | luciec@warnersgroup.co.uk
O PUBLISHED BY PUBLISHER John Greenwood Warners Group Publications plc The Maltings, West Street, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH 01778 391000 | warnersgroup.co.uk
O NEWSTRADE DISTRIBUTION Warners Group Publications plc | 01778 391150
E-NEWSLETTER Sign up at outandaboutlive.co.uk or scan here with your smartphone to get exclusive tips, offers and prizes for free
The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every care is taken to ensure that the content of this magazine is accurate, but we assume no responsibility for any effect from errors or omissions. While every care is taken with unsolicited material submitted for publication, we cannot be responsible for loss or damage. While every care is taken when accepting advertisements, we are not responsible for the quality and/or the performance of goods and/or services advertised in this magazine. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) exists to regulate the content of advertisements. Tel: 020 7492 2222 | © Warners Group Publications plc 2021
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July 2021 Camping 3
CONTENTS
20
32 4 Camping July 2021
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14 58 INSPIRATION
REGULARS
20 A WEEK… ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT The perfect family camping holiday
10 AROUND THE CAMPFIRE Your camping pictures
32 THE MAGIC OF KERRY Prepare to be bewitched by Ireland’s southwest coast
12 ME & MY TENT Check out a reader’s tent set-up
14 COASTAL CAMPING Why we love to be beside the seaside
40 MARVELLOUS MEDWAY A Call the Midwife-themed break in Kent
SITES
6 FIRST PITCH What’s new in the world of camping
47 LAW OF THE CAMPSITE Gillian Law’s camping thoughts 63 OUR SITE Liz Morrell meets campsite owners living the dream
28 COASTAL CAMPSITES Our selection of the best pitches by the sea 44 CAMPSITE OF THE MONTH Dornafield, Devon
COMPETITION
THE KNOWLEDGE
46 WIN AN OUTDOOR REVOLUTION TENT PACKAGE A tent, canopy and porch worth over £1,000 to be won
48 SKILLS: TENT REPAIRS How to fix your damaged tent
50 SKILLS: SELF-CONTAINED CAMPING Your post-lockdown camping set-up 52 SKILLS: ORGANISING YOUR TENT Keep your tent tidy and shipshape 54 SKILLS: CAMPING GURU Readers’ problems solved 56 GEAR: KITBAG Check out the latest outdoor gear 58 GEAR: TENT REVIEWS Five glamping and luxury tents reviewed 61 CAMPSITE COOKING Cook up a storm with Outdoor Revolution
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July 2021 Camping 5
FIRST PITCH Britain is facing a tent shortage caused by a “perfect storm” of Covid, Brexit and the huge global demand for camping equipment. Manufacturers have struggled to get new stock into shops and many customers have faced long delays in having their orders supplied, post-lockdown. Most camping equipment is made in the Far East and as a result of pandemic-related factory shutdowns and worker shortages, production has been dramatically curtailed over the last year. The global shortage of shipping containers has also affected the transportation to Europe – and that was only worsened by the closure of the Suez Canal earlier this year. Brexit red tape issues have added to the UK supply chain problems. And as a result, retailers who would normally have enough stock to keep them going throughout the season only have a handful of tents left in their warehouses, leading to fears there could be shortages later in the summer. One shop owner told Camping magazine: “The cost of shipping means some manufacturers will decide that some products will be too costly to even bring into the country and some won’t be able to get their products over at all.
CAMPERS URGED TO ACT FAST TO BEAT TENT SHORTAGE “There’s a good chance it will mean price increases and shortages of product are highly possible. When you add the worldwide issues caused by coronavirus and the massive demand for outdoor leisure products, I would say this is the year to buy early if you can.” Andrew Denton, Chief Executive of the Outdoor Industries Association, said a “perfect storm” of events had put huge strain on the supply chain. He said: “Firstly the Covid issue meant disruption in manufacturing in the Far East – staff, logistics, factory closures and factories switching to make PPE; these factors all impacted on production. “Then shipping experienced its own Covidrelated crisis, which meant many containers were not in the right ports at the right time, container prices went up, people were scrambling to ship PPE faster and the entire distribution system strained. “As we pulled out of lockdown last summer the demand then on camping and outdoor products went through the roof, so in a time when ordering was cautious, supply and distribution constrained, suddenly demand was greater than any previous year.” Mr Denton said the Brexit deal was not “what we expected or wanted” and was bringing “confusion and uncertainty” both in
Tent retailers are facing shortages
Supply problems are hitting accessories the UK and Europe. Increased red tape after Brexit had also “added a significant layer of complexity and cost” to the distribution of products, he said. Mr Denton added: “So, all in all you have multiple layers of challenge – with the Suez blockage adding short term issues – meaning supply will be severely disrupted for months, and challenging to retailer and brand alike.”
ECO FRIENDLY SLEEPING BAG RANGE LAUNCHED A new range of eco friendly premium sleeping bags made with recycled down and fabric has been launched by outdoor specialist, Mountain Equipment. The Earthrise bags contain materials entirely retrieved from unwanted clothing and bedding collected by waste recycling companies throughout Europe. The down and feather is removed from the products and then washed, sterilised, and sorted. Most of this recycled down is used in new bedding products but a small percentage of the highest-quality material can be found in Earthrise products. The manufacture and use of outdoor clothing and equipment is a major
6 Camping July 2021
contributor to carbon emissions, using up valuable natural resources and adds to environmental damage. But unlike other technical outdoor gear, down-filled products can be recycled very successfully – with up to 95% of a down garment or sleeping bag able to be recycled in some way. Now the company has ambitious plans to create a recycling system that would ensure unwanted down clothing and sleeping bags which are at the end of their life don’t simply end up in landfill and contribute to the production of new, more sustainable products. The Down Cycle scheme involves taking back used down products, recycling them, and reusing the down in new products. Trials have been completed in the UK using recycled down from unrepairable products still under warranty. A Mountain Equipment spokesman said: “There is a significant number of used and
Earthrise bags are made from old clothing
unwanted down jackets and sleeping bags languishing in people’s houses, many of which are beyond repair; we want these products back.” Earthrise bags are based on the design of the best-selling Helium models, and despite their green credentials, lose nothing in performance and warmth. The fabrics used are soft and comfortable and the sleeping bags are available in a range of models, with recommended minimum temperatures o o of -9 C to -2 C. Both men’s and women’s models are available in regular and long lengths, and they come in either left or right-zipped versions.
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Why just escape when you could Feel Free?
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When you’ve been cooped up, only camping out can really set you free. Our Club gives you an open invitation to stay in beautiful locations from coast to country. To let the kids explore, while you exhale in the calming surrounds of nature. From spectacular Club Sites to smaller, hidden gems, we’ll give you all the support you need to do as much or as little as you please. To rest, reconnect and truly feel free.
campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk | 024 7798 0194
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FIRST PITCH The Caravan and Motorhome Club is investing over £5million in its sites. Upgrades include bringing 100Mb broadband to 70% of its campsite network, facility block upgrades, new pitches and resurfaced roads among other things. Brighton is getting new pitches, while Coniston Park Coppice sees upgrades to services across the site. River Breamish is getting extra pitches as well as the conversion of some grass pitches to hardstanding. Teesdale Barnard Castle will be getting extra pitches and improvements to the dog walking area. Pitches at Moreton-in Marsh are being
MULTI-MILLION POUND SITE INVESTMENT FOR CLUB
Coniston Park Coppice is among the campsites being upgraded upgraded and new serviced pitches will be installed. Finally, grass pitches at Wharfedale will be upgraded to hardstanding. Affected areas will be fenced off to prevent disruption to visitors. Harvey Alexander, Director of Marketing and Membership Services at the Caravan and Motorhome Club, said: “When scheduling the
developments, we listen to feedback from members to make sure we’re investing in the right campsites at the right time. I am confident that this latest programme of upgrades will mean the campsites are in top condition for what will undoubtedly be a busy season.” The Club has also partnered with BT to upgrade the WiFi on many of its campsites.
THE UK’S TOP CAMPSITE LOCATIONS REVEALED A family campsite on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast has come top of a list of the UK’s camping hotspots. Higher Moor Farm in Dorset also proved to be the most Instagrammable campsite on the list with the most social media posts, tagged 943 times by users on the social media site. New research from motorhome rental company, Camptoo, ranked UK campsites on popularity, weather, air quality and nearby landmarks. The 10 most popular camping regions in the country were selected based on the number of campsites in the area, with the top individual site for each region then singled out based on the online popularity (judged by Instagram posts and Tripadvisor reviews). To give an ultimate overall score of the top 10 campsites in the UK, average climate conditions (annual sun hours and rainfall) were measured, along with the number of nearby hiking routes, the quality of air in the area and nearby landmarks to visit. In second place was Herding Hill Farm in Northumberland, boasting
the most landmarks nearby compared with the rest of the list. Popular camping locations made up the top five with Long Meadow (New Forest), Deepdale (Norfolk) and Mains Farm (Lake District) ranking third, fourth and fifth respectively. The rest of the list comprised of Gwithian Farm (Cornwall) in joint sixth place alongside Beech Croft (Peak District), followed by By The Way Hostel and Campsite (Loch Lomond), Grantown-on-Spey (Cairngorms) and Tyn Cornel (Snowdonia) coming in eighth, ninth and 10th place. Ed Bassett, Camptoo’s Head of Wanderlust, said: “We knew national parks would dominate the list, but had no idea just how much with an impressive seven campsites making the list from parks all across the UK. “It will be interesting to see if any of these results change over the coming months with campsites beginning to open their doors to the public again and record numbers expected with travel restrictions meaning Brits are more likely to book a staycation this summer.”
EUROTUNNEL OPENS NEW PET RECEPTION IN UK Eurotunnel has opened a new space in its UK terminal for pets and their families before travelling to France. Checks have always taken place, but now, with the new facility, any pet travelling to France via Eurotunnel will undergo these checks prior to departure and not on arrival in France. Eurotunnel said 10% of its customers using the Shuttle service travel with pets. Eurotunnel’s specially trained pet reception staff will carry out the required document checks, with random checks and controls by French Customs services based at the British terminal building. New regulations brought about by the UK leaving the European Union mean that animals must now hold a European Union pet passport or a new animal health certificate issued by a UKapproved vet within 10 days of departure. There are also rabies vaccination stipulations. Staff will do checks
8 Camping July 2021
CAMPERS WARNED TO CHECK INSURANCE BEFORE PITCHING UP Campers are being urged to consider insurance for the valuables they take on their camping holidays. According to new research, one in ten Brits will pitch-up for a UK camping holiday this year, with 5% hoping to go glamping and 6% staying at a music festival. The research by GoCompare showed many people take expensive and valuable items like smartphones, tablets and cameras when they go camping or to festivals. Often they mistakenly believe their personal belongings are covered by home insurance while they are out and about. But most policies only provide ‘personal possessions’ cover as a paid-for extra and the amount you can claim varies. GoCompare said claims are likely to be declined if the items were left unattended in your tent. Thefts from cars are usually only covered if the items were securely hidden.
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Around the CAMPFIRE STAR PIC
My wife was a camping newbie when we met five years ago… she now loves it more than I do and spends all her time planning our trips away. Last year I thought I'd surprise her with my new camping outfit and she said if I ever wear it again I will be camping in my own tent. I can't see the problem… I think I look great!
■ Ray Brooks
Share your adventures
Well it was wet and windy up the Old Man of Coniston, but we all made it – Helen, Pete, Rosanna and Damien .We drank filtered water from the stream and got back to our very sturdy tents. The Robens Prospector made its first appearance and stood up to the test. ■ Rosanna Park
Join the Camping community
Send us your favourite camping photographs along with a short caption. We’ll publish the best snaps in the magazine and on our website outandaboutlive.co.uk and the picture we like the most will win a great prize from Coleman! Send your pictures to editorial@campingmagazine.co.uk
10 Camping July 2021
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Share your camping moments in association with
Camp set-up in the far north of Norway, on the return leg of my solo trip to the North Cape, the most northerly point of mainland Europe – about 450 miles above the Arctic Circle. The weather was closing in that day and I found a small quiet site on the shores of a fjord. I managed to get pitched with my Robens Lodge 3, and get some food cooked before the rain really started. Travelling on the bike needs a small pack size, but with the grandson now growing and soon ready for adventures with Grampy, something a little larger will be on the cards.
Follow Coleman on facebook.com/Coleman.UK or visit the website coleman.eu/uk
This is our new-to-us Ma rechal Compact Luxe 6 frame tent. We have alw ays preferred to do our family camping under proper canvas, but the additio n of a new puppy to our hous ehold and two kids who seemingly never stop gr owing meant that our fou rberth Mehler tent was sta rting to get a bit snug. The Marechal must have bee n very expensive when it wa s new as it's extremely go od quality and has a cle ver movable front panel all owing you to choose bet ween having a sun canopy or maximum indoor spac e. I think it proves what exc eptional secondhand ba rg ains there are and that budg et camping needn't mea n compromising on quali ty or features.
■ Rob Baker
WHAT YOU CAN WIN Ray’s picture wins him a Coleman 50QT Xtreme Wheeled cooler. With over 47-litre capacity, this cooler has a large volume and great performance due to its polyurethane foam insulation which will keep the contents cold on ice for up to four days. Designed with two sturdy wheels and a telescopic steel handle, it is ideal for long road trips, days spent on the campsite and transporting food and drink around festival sites. Along with moulded carrying handles on each side and a drain plug in the base to remove ice melt, the robust, hinged lid also includes four drinks holders and can be used as a seat.
Slap-up meal tonight ■ Mark Sweeney
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Next issue: Send us your camping pictures for the chance to win a Coleman OctaGo tent worth £200.
July 2021 Camping 11
READER'S SET-UP
The Inspire's living room
Living room storage
Our bedrooms
Me and my tent Paul Magan, from Cambridgeshire, shows us around his Vango Inspire 600 family tent WHO ARE YOU? We are a family of four, living in the Fens of Cambridgeshire. We all go camping as a family unit as often as we can. However, quite often you may find my wife and daughter enjoying a little back garden camping in our Coleman Kobuk Valley 3. You may even find our family tent set up during nice weather in the garden along with the swimming pool… the other facilities aren’t that bad either, to be honest! Or me just wandering off for a coddiwomple in the Fens for a little wild camping (with a Leave No Trace ethos), and if I am lucky, one of the kids may join me, usually my daughter, Anais.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU GO CAMPING? On our family adventures, three or four times a year, six or seven if you include local sites
Breakfast time!
12 Camping July 2021
like Fourwinds Leisure in the town of March, when the parents visit with their caravan.
WHAT’S YOUR TENT? As a family we own around eight tents in total, if you include the bivy and trekking tents we own, as well as the Coleman. Our main family tent is the Vango Inspire 600 (2015), a good, sturdy tent that has seen us through some harsh conditions, including snow and storms, and never let us down once.
I keep a spreadsheet with every purchase, warranty details and cost. Including all the prizes we have won in competitions, it comes to around the £6,000 mark.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET SET UP? From five minutes if on my own to two hours for the whole set-up on family adventures – including the sun canopy but not including the two awnings.
DO YOU ALWAYS DO THE FULL SET-UP? No, never, we plan accordingly every time we go away. We have all the extras for the tent (sky shield, side awning, front awning and sun canopy), but hardly use them apart from the sun canopy. Now, when fully pitched with all the extras, the colours no longer match due to UV damage over the years. With a trailer and being fortunate enough to have a garage attached to the house, we can store all the equipment the mice would love to have a munch on, along with the essentials for us to just hook up and go.
SHARE YOUR TENT SET-UP!
HOW MUCH HAS YOUR SET-UP COST IN TOTAL?
Send your pics to editorial@campingmagazine.co.uk
Everyone has their own way of setting up their tent – and we'd love to see yours! We’re looking for inspiration – show us your camping set up, inside and outside. Send us pictures or even a video of your tent and the best set-ups will feature in the magazine. We'll also share them on social media and on our website, outandaboutlive.co.uk.
I’m so sad when it comes to camping that
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INSPIRATION Seaside Camping Abersoch stock.adobe.com
Life's a beach We do love to be beside the seaside – and we especially love to go camping beside the sea. Iain Duff packs his bucket and spade and finds out what’s so great about the great British seaside
14 Camping July 2021
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THINKING OF GOING? INSURE WITH SHIELD FOR TOTAL PEACE OF MIND
Seaside amusement arcade
A Devon sunset
T
here’s something about breathing in coastal air and getting sand between your toes that just makes you feel so much better. It is said that no one lives more than 80 miles from the coast in the UK; that means we’re all less than two hours from the sea. So it’s not surprising that thousands of us make an escape to the coast every weekend. As a country we are blessed with magnificent beaches, from the far north of Scotland to the most southerly tip of Cornwall. Some are quiet, isolated coves, some are in the heart of bustling seaside resorts. Some boast vast expanses of golden sand, while others are made up of smooth pebbles and shells. Whether you’re looking for a massive family holiday park with all mod cons or a quiet corner on a tiny site with the bare minimum of facilities you’ll find it by the sea. Britain’s coastline is dotted with wonderful camping locations – some perched at the top of towering cliffs with spectacular sea views, others just a couple of minutes’ walk from glorious sandy beaches. Either way, you simply can’t beat dropping off to sleep with the sound of the sea in the background.
Things to do ENJOY THE BRIGHT LIGHTS Part of the charm of seaside resorts is the traditional attractions like the piers, amusement arcades and funfairs. Kids might be more sophisticated these days thanks to video games and non-stop TV, but they still love the thrill of stuffing 2p coins into brightly lit machines or being hurled into the air on a rickety old fairground ride.
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Camping on the Scottish coast
WATCH THE SUN SET For a more genteel way to pass the time, cast your eyes eastwards. If you’re lucky enough to find a pitch with a sea view, chances are you’ll spend many an evening sitting outside your tent, gazing in awe as the sun sinks slowly into the sea. TRY OUT A SEASIDE SPORT Excuse the pun but surfing is making waves this year. Everyone’s at it on all kinds of surf craft, from traditional belly boards to Malibu boards. Cornwall, Devon and Wales are top locations, but wherever you find waves will do for starters. Before you dive in, think about taking some lessons with a Surfing GBapproved surf school. In places where there are no waves try kite surfing or paddling a stand-up paddleboard (SUP). The experts make it look easy but once you get the buzz you will definitely get the hang of it. Eventually. Nooks and crannies around the coast can be explored from a kayak. Bring a waterproof bag for your sarnies and phone. Get info on where to hire or get tuition from the British Canoe Union. EAT ‘JUNK’ FOOD Healthy eating enthusiasts and dentists will no doubt have a fit, but no trip to the coast is complete without generous helpings of fish and chips, ice cream and a traditional stick of rock. Some of our seaside towns will try to tempt you with exotic stuff like kebabs and burgers, but don’t succumb. Cod and chips is the only acceptable fast food to eat when you’re strolling along the prom. But watch out for the seagulls.
SWIM IN THE OCEAN It seems everyone is “wild swimming” these days, but we’ve been doing it since it was just, well, swimming. And where better to go for a dip outdoors than the seaside? OK, so the English Channel’s not exactly the Med and the North Sea can be just a bit chilly, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take the plunge off Britain’s coastline. What could be better on a sunny summer’s morning than an early morning swim in the briny before rushing back up to your tent for bacon and eggs and a mug of tea? Be safe, though. Check out wildswimming.co.uk for advice on how to stay out of trouble. TAKE A HIKE There’s nothing quite like coastal walking; slipping out of your tent on a bright morning and donning boots and rucksack before setting off along a clifftop path. Our coastal cliffs
Gnarly waves, dude
A lovely coastal walk in Yorkshire
July 2021 Camping 15
INSPIRATION Seaside Camping
Crabbing on the harbour in Norfolk
Stunning Achmelvich Beach in Scotland
offer a roller coaster ride of strenuous ups and downs as well as gentler strolling around gorgeous headlands and along endless sandy beaches. Navigation is easy – simply keep the sea to one side on the outbound journey and on the opposite side if coming back the same way. Another great attraction is discovering hidden coves with lovely pubs for lunch and most coastal areas have some sort of summer bus service that can you let walk as far as you like in one direction and get a ride back – as long as you have checked timetables out in advance! EXPLORE ROCK POOLS Youngsters love poking around in rock pools and it’s a great way of introducing them to the wildlife that’s to be found on our coastline. Grab a net and explore the many pools that appear when the tide goes out. You can spend hours searching for all
Building sandcastles on Bamburgh Beach
sorts of marine life left behind by the sea. And even if you don’t discover any living creatures, you’re sure to uncover some interestinglooking rocks and stones. MAKE AN ADVENTURE OUT OF LUNCH If you’ve got the nerve, the possibilities for eating wild are plentiful by the coast. But even if you don’t want to forage for your own supper you’ll at least be able to get some super-fresh seafood. Head for the quayside at high tide and haggle! Fishermen will often let you buy some of their catch fresh off the boat. Look out for signs telling you when to expect them. Failing that, accost the skipper as he unloads and offer to buy a few bits and pieces. Alternatively, look out for tourist boats and buy excess catch from the punters. Amazing! A fishing rod and a set of feathers won’t
cost that much and could reward you with a few tasty mackerel in late summer. There’s nothing better. Gut it, fill it with herbs and wrap it in five sheets of wet newspaper. Chuck it on the barbie and, when the newspaper catches fire, unwrap and devour. BUILD A SANDCASTLE Ever wondered how children seem to instinctively know exactly how much sand and water it takes to make the perfect sandcastle? No, me neither, but it’s the sort of thing that keeps scientists awake at night, so much so that one team of international boffins decided to investigate further. To find out exactly how water glues sand grains together, German researchers used 3D images created with something called X-ray microtomography. To cut a long story short, they discovered the perfect ratio of sand to water – eight parts sand to one part water. Next time you’re on the beach, tell your kids, although they will doubtless know already. If all that science sounds too much like hard work, you could simply dig a giant hole on the beach. One day I will reach Australia… HUNT FOR FOSSILS Imagine taking a stroll along the beach and discovering a rock containing the fossilised remains of a creature that lived millions of years ago. Although fossils can be found in all sorts of places, the beach is the most common place to look for them and the most suitable for children. They can keep an eye open as they dig in the sand or paddle in the sea. Dorset’s Jurassic Coast is one of the best places in Britain to find fossils and the best area to search for them is around Charmouth and Lyme Regis.
Brighton Pier
16 Camping July 2021
BROWSE THE SHOPS We love the tacky souvenir and gift shops that line the promenades in seaside towns. You can stock up on everything from buckets
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THINKING OF GOING? INSURE WITH SHIELD FOR TOTAL PEACE OF MIND Greater Yarmouth Tourism David Street
Seaside shops
Great Yarmouth central beach
and spades to giant inflatables. You’ll also find hundreds of postcards on sale. Letter-writing is becoming a forgotten art but the kids will love choosing a postcard and sending a quick note home to grandparents and school friends – and getting a card in the post is so much better than an Insta message. Away from the kissme-quick hats, there are plenty of upmarket independent stores selling quirky seaside-themed knick-knacks that you won’t find anywhere else – especially in more upmarket resorts like St Ives, Southwold and Whitstable.
defences, lighthouses and lifeboat stations at the coast for a long time now. Some are impressive, some beautiful, some audacious. The ultimate symbol of the coast is the lighthouse. You can visit many of them, from the far north of Scotland to the tip of Cornwall; each is different and each tells its own story. Piers are great places to take in the sea air or have a punt on the one-armed bandits. Some, like Cleveden, are genteel and amusement-free, while others, like the Central Pier at Blackpool, are loud and proud. So many of our greatest artists have been inspired by the coast and there are many places where you can be inspired by their work. Anthony Gormley’s Another Place in Crosby is haunting whereas Maggie Hambling’s Scallop at Aldeburgh is breathtaking. On rainy days check out the finest coastal galleries, including the Tate St Ives, the Turner Contemporary at Margate or the Tate Liverpool. Finally, let your imagination run wild at any number of coastal defences and castles around the coast. Bamburgh in Northumberland is one of the finest and has been used as a location for plenty of films and TV.
EXPLORE COASTAL CONSTRUCTIONS We’ve been busy building museums, sea
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.co
o be
BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES Occasionally, just occasionally, the sun doesn’t shine during the Great British Summer. Sometimes it gets a bit blowy. And it even rains, now and then. But there’s something special about getting wrapped up warm and braving the wind and rain on the seafront promenade.
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WATCH THE WILDLIFE Britain’s beaches and coastline are fantastic places for wildlife watching. The cliffs, rocky shores, sandy dunes and muddy estuaries are habitats for all sorts of marine life; birds, mammals, fish and plants. Britain has some of the most important seabird colonies in the world and at the coast you can look out for gulls, oystercatchers, gannets, puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. Along parts of the British coast, seals, dolphins and even whales and sharks can sometimes be seen. Grey and common seals are fascinating creatures to watch and there are plenty of places to spot them around the coast, including Blakeney in Norfolk, Skomer Island in Pembrokeshire, Donna Nook seal colony in Lincolnshire, Moray Firth, and Farne Islands National Nature Reserve. Many consider Scotland to be the best place in Europe to watch whales, dolphins and porpoises. And the basking shark can often be seen feeding off the west coast in summer. Remember, though, it’s all about observing. Don’t get too close and don’t try to interact with any of these creatures.
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Skegness Pier
EAT FRESHLY CAUGHT SEAFOOD We’ve already explained how to go about catching your own grub on the coast, but you don’t need to cast a line off a pier or go rummaging around in rock pools for seaweed to enjoy the fresh taste of the sea. As well as the joys of cod from a seaside chippy, there are plenty of other seafood specialities available around Britain. For example, tuck into potted shrimps in Morecambe, dressed crab in Cromer or smokies in Arbroath. Whitstable in Kent is a seafood lover’s paradise. The vibrant, working harbour is home to a fish market where you can pick up all sorts of recently landed seafood to take home and cook. Whitstable is also famed for its oysters and there is an annual oyster festival in the town. BEACH PARTIES AND BARBECUES Yes, it conjures up images of 1980s Hollywood teen flicks, but a party on the beach can be great fun. There are all sorts of ways to rustle up party food on the beach, from cooking fish over a campfire to a barbecue. Campingaz’s Party Grill is a good alternative to traditional stoves or barbecues for beach cooking. If you’re going to have a party on the beach, be considerate of others. Don’t play music too loud if you’re near houses and please, please take your rubbish home. RELAX! On a warm, sunny day, head to the nearest beach, pop yourself down on a deck chair, slap on the sunscreen, stick a knotted hankie on your head and then… do nothing. Until it’s time to buy an ice cream of course.
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INSPIRATION Seaside Camping
10 great seaside resorts ST IVES Cornwall St Ives is a quintessential beach town which has both charm and character. Often referred to as ‘the jewel in Cornwall’s crown’, it is easy to see why as you wander around the narrow cobbled streets and take in the picturesque harbour with its fishermen’s cottages. There are four superb beaches to choose from and on a sunny day, with the beaches looking golden and the sea an azure blue colour, you can easily believe you are on France's south coast not the southwest corner of England! Add to this the art galleries, interesting shops and great food and you have all you need for a great family camping holiday. WESTON-SUPER-MARE Somerset Weston-super-Mare is a bustling and vibrant beach location. The views over to Wales and of nearby Exmoor are enhanced by the long sweep of Weston Bay and the broad, flat sandy beach has as much open space as any youngster could wish for. Weston has everything you would expect of a seaside resort. There are three piers, and if you are looking for somewhere to occupy the kids for a long time, visit the Grand Pier.
TENBY Pembrokeshire Generations of holidaymakers have loved visiting Tenby. The town is charming and great fun to explore and the harbour is colourful and pretty. You have a choice of three lovely beaches, each with its own character. Water sports are very popular here and you can hire kayaks and motorboats and even go on a jet ski safari! Mackerel fishing boat trips leave from the harbour regularly. Tenby may be bustling and busy on hot summer days but it has a captivating genteel feel to it as well. BLACKPOOL Lancashire Blackpool is still the daddy of Britain’s seaside resorts. It’s big, brash and bustling and attracts millions of holidaymakers every year who come to savour the traditional (and very busy) attractions the town has to offer. The iconic tower dominates the seafront, along with three piers jammed full of fun things to do and, of course, the wonderful Pleasure Beach theme park at the south end of the front. At the end of summer, the famous illuminations are switched on, making it just
Whitby
as popular to visit out of season. If you really have never been to Blackpool you just have to go – but take plenty of money as there is so much to do you’ll need it! WHITBY Yorkshire Sitting on the Yorkshire coast, Whitby is a traditional seaside town but not in the arcade and fairground sense. It takes a far more genteel approach. The town is split in two by the River Esk and has a pretty working harbour and plenty of shops. Whitby always makes a grand seaside day out; West Cliff Beach is a favourite with families and is backed by traditional beach huts. Captain Cook was born nearby and lived in a house in the town which is now the Captain Cook Memorial Museum and the Church of St Mary sits atop the East Cliff and is reached by a climb up the famous 199 steps. Also on the East Cliff, you will find the ruins of Gothic Whitby Abbey, which was part of the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s legendary horror novel, Dracula.
Inset Blackpool Illuminations (VisitEngland VisitBlackpool)
One of Newquay's beaches
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Tenby Harbour
SKEGNESS Lincolnshire Skeggy might not be the most fashionable seaside resort, but it’s still a massively popular holiday destination. It’s the largest resort town on the Lincolnshire coast and boasts awardwinning sandy beaches where parents can sit in deck chairs while the kids dig in the sand. There is a promenade and a great seafront, plus a pier and fairground attractions. Near the centre you'll find the famous clock tower and Jolly Fisherman sculpture and there are plenty of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Skegness can get very busy on summer days and the beach very crowded but it has all the ingredients for a great seaside experience. GREAT YARMOUTH Norfolk Great Yarmouth is every bit a traditional seaside resort but is close to the famous Norfolk Broads too. The town has been a recognised seaside resort since 1760 and is Pixabay
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well versed in looking after its many visitors. The town has a superb and large sandy beach where you can soak in the sun and let the kids play to their hearts' content. There are two piers to enjoy: Britannia (which is a Grade II listed building) and Wellington, and both are worth a look. Great Yarmouth front is known as the Golden Mile and has arcades and fairground rides as well as numerous other holiday attractions, including the Merrivale Model Village. BRIGHTON East Sussex Brighton is one of the south coast’s most famous seaside resort towns. It is in fact a city as it joined with neighbouring Hove in 2000 to form the City of Brighton and Hove. Despite its size it still retains the charm and excitement of a traditional beach resort and as it is due south of London (and only an hour or so’s car journey away), it is a very popular destination for summer daytrippers and longer-term holidaymakers. On hot days the long pebble beach is simply stuffed full of sunseekers and families enjoying the sea air. There is even a nudist beach east of the resort! At one time, Brighton had two piers but only the Palace Pier remains now. Here you will find fairground rides and arcades. The resort has a lovely seafront walk and an excellent shopping area. WEYMOUTH Dorset In many ways, Weymouth is the quintessential English holiday town with a pleasing, slight
tackiness alongside the considerable charm of its Georgian architecture and seafront attractions. The town was a very early holiday resort, made fashionable by King George III who came here bathing – his chalk figure is on a hill on the approach to the town. The sandy beach is very gently shelving, making it ideal for young children, though it can take quite a while to get deep enough for grown-ups to have a swim! NEWQUAY Cornwall Despite its reputation as a hedonistic haven for stag and hen parties, Newquay hasn’t lost its family appeal. It boasts a really friendly zoo, that makes up in atmosphere for being relatively small in size and its numerous beaches are always popular. Fistral is the Wembley Stadium of surfing so make sure you bring a board. Other water-based attractions include Blue Reef Aquarium and the Waterworld swim park.
10 SIZZLING BEACHES 1 Porthcurno, Cornwall 2 Woolacombe Bay, Devon 3 Charmouth, Dorset 4 Camber Sands, East Sussex 5 Holkham, Norfolk 6 Runswick Bay, Yorkshire 7 Bamburgh, Northumberland 8 Crosby Beach, Merseyside 9 Black Rock Sands, Wales 10 Achmelvich Beach, Scotland
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A WEEK ON the Isle of Wight
Timeless island
Travel back in time to a lazy seaside holiday destination where there is loads to do by the coast and inland
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A WEEK IN North Norfolk
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THINKING OF GOING? INSURE WITH SHIELD FOR TOTAL PEACE OF MIND popular visitor attraction to this day. The Needles, on the coast of Alum Bay, should not be missed, especially for the chairlift that takes visitors down to the bay’s beach and gives unrivalled views of the famous Needles Rocks. Fossil hunters love exploring the Isle of Wight and new specimens continue to be found on a regular basis. Dinosaur Isle is a dedicated museum just outside of Sandown. The Blackgang Chine theme park is charming and the Isle of Wight Steam Railway at Havenstreet lets you enjoy the slower pace of a bygone era. An open double-decker bus tour gives you spectacular coastal views and, speaking of buses, the volunteer-run Bus and Coach Museum in Ryde is a lovely way to spend a nostalgic couple of hours. And for yet another method of
Visit Britain Jason Hawkes
T
he Isle of Wight has a timeless feel to it and a laid-back pace of life that will appeal to anyone who wants to get away from it all for a week or two. That’s not to say there’s nothing to do here. Quite the opposite in fact. With wonderful beaches, miles of rugged coastline and oodles of family fun, from ancient Roman settlements to the UK’s oldest amusement park, you’ll easily be able to fill your days, with plenty of options for all ages. Nestled a short way off England’s south coast, the Isle of Wight spans just 13 miles north to south and 23 miles east to west. Over the years it has been home to the likes of poets, Alfred Tennyson and John Keats. Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s holiday home, remains a
The Needles
public transport, take a hovercraft jaunt to Southsea, across the water on the Hampshire coast. The IoW Steam Railway is a great way to explore, while Carisbrooke Castle and Yarmouth Castle offer historical delights.
The world-famous Needles off the Isle of Wight’s western coast
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A WEEK ON the Isle of Wight
Traditional thatched cottages in Shanklin
A WEEK IN North Norfolk
DAY 1 THE NEEDLES The three jagged cliffs that jut out of the sea, just off the west coast of the Isle of Wight, make an iconic image. There’s more than enough going on at the Needles visitor attraction for a full day out: children’s amusements, a Victorian carousel, vintage car ride and a 4D cinema. There’s also a sand shop where visitors can make a sand souvenir, a glass shop where you can watch glass-blowing and a sweet factory. Catering outlets include snack kiosks, a large
restaurant and tea rooms. As well as all that, there are the stunning views and the popular chairlift down to Alum Bay beach, from where you can take a quick boat trip out to the Needles themselves.
DAY 2 FOSSIL HUNTING Dinosaur and fossil hunters love the Isle of Wight, where much of the modern science of palaeontology was developed. For rainy day dino hunting, you won’t do much better than Dinosaur Isle, a dedicated museum just outside of the town of Sandown. The building has a distinctive swooping roof and triangular porch that is supposed to make it look like a pterodactyl. Inside are
plenty of real and replica fossils and life-size model dinosaurs, including an animatronic neovenator, and lots of opportunity for hands-on activity. Guided fossil tours are available around some local fossil hotspots, starting at Brooks bay, near Brightstone. For independent fossil hunting, head for the beaches at Compton Bay on the west coast of the island and Yaverland Beach on the east, where the fossil-bearing Weladen clays appear at the surface.
DAY 3 VISIT SHANKLIN Shanklin is a charming seaside town with a lovely beach that backs onto a traditional English esplanade, with all the attractions you’d expect, such as an amusement arcade, bowling, go-karting and a pirate-themed crazy golf park. Catch the unique lift to the
Æ WHERE TO EAT THE GARLIC FARM Mersley Farm, Mersley Lane, Newchurch PO36 0NR 01983 867333 thegarlicfarm.co.uk If you like garlic this is foodie heaven. The menu is interesting to say the least, featuring, among other dishes, a mouth-watering garlic mezze – and a cake mezze for dessert. There’s even garlic ice cream!
xxx
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ONE TO VISIT top of the cliffs and take a walk through parkland and tree-lined paths into the old village, where there are thatched cottages, independent shops, restaurants and pubs. Shanklin Chine is a fascinating natural attraction. This wooded coastal ravine has waterfalls and lush vegetation growing from the rocks. If you still have time, take a short drive to Brading Roman Villa overlooking Sandown Bay, one of the finest Roman sites in the UK. The award-winning visitor centre tells the story of the villa and provides insights into Roman life through the beautifully preserved mosaic floors to the collection of archaeology.
DAY 4 A DAY TRIP TO COWES Cowes is probably best known for its annual regatta which takes place every August but there’s more to this town than that. The pedestrianised main street has lots of quirky shops and restaurants and you can wander along the harbour. Queen Victoria is the island’s most famous former resident and her
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holiday home, Osborne House, is just outside Cowes. The rooms are lavishly decorated and there are pictures of the monarch’s favourite dogs and horses in the Horn Room.
DAY 5 ‘FLY’ TO THE MAINLAND The hovercraft that zips back and forth between Ryde and Southsea is the world’s only commercial passenger hovercraft service so it’s well worth taking the 10-minute “flight” to the mainland just to say you have experienced it. Once you’re there, enjoy the seaside resort attractions of Southsea, then take a walk along the promenade to bustling Portsmouth, where you can enjoy shops and restaurants, learn about maritime history and get a close-up view of the Spinnaker Tower.
DAY 6 EXPLORE THE ISLAND The southeast corner of the island makes for a great day out. Start at Appuldurcombe House, once the grandest stately home on the island but now an empty shell. It was the 18th
ALUM BAY BEACH is one of the most picturesque beaches on the Isle of Wight. Located at the westerly tip of the island and famed for its iconic chalk stacks known as the Needles. A firm favourite with visitors, the iconic Needles Chairlift is the best way to see the Isle of Wight’s most famous landmark, which starts from the top of the Alum Bay cliffs down to the beach below.
century home of Sir Richard Worsley, who became notorious for a court case in which his wife admitted to having had 27 lovers. A short drive away is Godshill Model Village, featuring Shanklin Chine in miniature. Godshill is a very popular village for tourists, with its medieval church, thatched cottages and numerous tea rooms and cafés. It also has a great vegan bistro/ restaurant called Tansy’s Pantry, if that’s your thing. In the afternoon, drive to the seaside
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A WEEK ON the Isle of Wight Pixabay
village of Ventnor where there’s a quirky selection of retro and vintage shops. Green fingered types will love Ventnor Botanic Garden, with plants from around the world and themed planting schemes.
DAY 7 STEAM RAILWAY All aboard for a day of transport-related fun. The award-winning Isle of Wight Steam Railway at Havenstreet runs five miles between the stations of Smallbrook and Wootton. At the interactive Train Story Discovery Centre, visitors can see historic locomotives and learn about their restoration in the workshops, get active on a woodland walk and watch a birds-of-prey flying display. The volunteer-run Bus and Coach Museum in Ryde is a lovely way to spend a nostalgic couple of hours. It features around 20 historic vehicles, from an 1880s stagecoach to a 1934 Dennis Ace bus, as well as a selection of more recent buses. There is also loads of island transport and holiday memorabilia, photographs, a tea bar and a shop.
A WEEK IN North Norfolk
Appuldurcombe House
WHAT TO SEE THE NEEDLES Alum Bay New Road, Alum Bay, Isle of Wight PO39 0JD 01983 752401 theneedles.co.uk VENTNOR BOTANIC GARDEN Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1UL 01983 855397 botanic.co.uk GODSHILL MODEL VILLAGE High Street, Godshill, Isle of Wight PO38 3HH 01983 840270 modelvillagegodshill.co.uk ISLE OF WIGHT STEAM RAILWAY The Railway Station, Havenstreet, Isle of Wight PO33 4DS 01983 882204 iwsteamrailway.co.uk SHANKLIN CHINE 3 Chine Hill, Shanklin, Isle of Wight PO37 6BW 01983 866432 shanklinchine.co.uk BRADING ROMAN VILLA Morton Old Road, Brading, Isle of Wight PO36 0PH bradingromanvilla.org.uk
The Isle of Wight steam railway
OSBORNE HOUSE York Avenue, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JT english-heritage.org.uk Spinnaker Tower across the water in Portsmouth
Pixabay 24 Camping July 2021
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image: Pixabay
Summer is here, the perfect time to book your 2021 touring holiday with Campsite Finder
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PARKS DIRECTORY
DEVON
DORSET
THE INSIDE PARK Touring Park Blandford Dorset
You
W
xing eave ! ela L R o S t To n a W on’t
Extra Large Pitches Ideal Family Site Quiet & Secluded
Children’s Play Area Country Walks & Wildlife Caravan Storage
www.theinsidepark.co.uk 01258 453719 KENT
THE FINCHES CARAVAN AND CAMPING SITE SALES ⁞ HIRE ⁞ STORAGE ⁞ PARK CHARTWAY STREET, KINGSWOOD, MAIDSTONE, ME17 3NU
01622 844388 / 01622 842096
All amenities in an ideal Kent location - just 2 miles from J8 of the M20. Hardstanding for all caravans as well as electricity to all pitches, showers, toilets, washing up room, laundry room, games room and wheelchair friendly wet room.
E: thefinchescaravanandcampingsite@yahoo.com
Web: www.kingswood-caravans.co.uk
NORFOLK
YORKSHIRE
naturally NORTH NORFOLK…
WALESWOOD The natural escape IN NORTH NORFOLK
Touring pitches on beautiful Kelling Heath. Great facilities and environmental activities. Lodges and holiday homes for hire.
CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK
Relax in your touring caravan or tent enjoying the sea views and Norfolk countryside. Multi service, electric pitches and amenity buildings. Luxurious holiday homes for hire.
AT ROTHER VALLEY COUNTRY PARK
Looking forward to welcoming you
®
To book call 01263 588181 Near Weybourne, Holt NR25 7HW www.kellingheath.co.uk
For bookings 01263 512242 or www.woodhill-park.com East Runton, Cromer NR27 9PX
PA R K S 2 0 2 1
The finest campsites, independently assessed
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PREMIER
“An excellent campsite with exceptional facilities”
2020
For the ultimate holiday experience … go to premier-parks.co.uk to find the 100 Premier Parks for 2021 26 Camping July 2021
10% discount when you book online using the code PPCPM21. Book to arrive between Monday and Thursday until November 2021.
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Back of Beyond Touring Park, Dorset
ing Long Acres Tour Park, Lincolnshire
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Briarfields Tourin g Caravan Park, Gloucesters hire
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Wells Touring Park, Somerset
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INSPIRATION Coastal Sites
Super seaside sites
Pitch up beside the sea with Claire Tupholme’s selection of campsites near the coast
ULWELL HOLIDAY PARK, Dorset
WHITBY HOLIDAY PARK North Yorkshire
Ulwell Road, Swanage, Dorset BH19 3DG
Saltwick Bay, Whitby, North Yorkshire YO22 4JX
01929 422823 ulwellholidaypark.co.uk 1 March – 7 January
Ulwell Holiday Park nestles under the Purbeck Hills close to Swanage and the National Trust’s Studland Bay. The bay is a vast area of sandy beaches and heathland, including a four-mile stretch of golden beach and views to old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight. The heathland behind the beach is a wildlife haven and home to all six British reptiles. The coastal resort of Swanage features a Blue Flag beach, a heritage centre, steam railway and places to eat and drink. The touring and camping area at Ulwell features hardstanding and grass pitches, some with water and drainage and all with electric hookup. There are toilets and showers, two laundries, a shop and play area. The on-site bar welcomes dogs and has a family room and outdoor patio area. The restaurant serves lunchtime snacks and a full evening menu. Families will love the indoor heated pool which features a water slide, toddler pool and changing rooms, all free for guests to use.
01947 602664 whitbypark.co.uk 1 March – 31 October
Set on the cliffs of the North Yorkshire coast, a one-mile walk from the seaside town of Whitby, this site has views of the famous abbey. It’s just a 20-minute walk along the coast path to the abbey ruins. From there you can continue past St Mary’s Church of Dracula fame, and on into Whitby via the 199 steps which lead you sharply down into the cobbled streets of the old part of the town. In Whitby you can explore the beaches, the Captain Cook Memorial and soak up the Gothic atmosphere. The site’s pitches are on grass on the clifftop and all have electric hook-up. There are toilets, showers, a laundry, games room, play area, bar and café, plus a seasonal clubhouse. You can access the golden sands of Saltwick Bay with a short (but steep) walk down from the site.
Swanage VisitEngland Diana Jarvis
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BEESTON REGIS HOLIDAY PARK Norfolk Cromer Road, West Runton, Norfolk NR27 9QZ
01263 823614 beestonregis.co.uk 24 March – 30 October
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Nestled between the costal resorts of Sheringham and Cromer, Beeston Regis Holiday Park is set in 62 acres with clifftop sea views. There are 40 pitches with views to the sea, serviced by a toilet and shower block, washing up, and a laundry. You can access the Norfolk Coast Path from site and walk to the seaside village of West Runton in one direction or the town of Sheringham in the other. Sheringham is full of independent shops and places to eat. You can enjoy the sandy beaches, take the steam railway to Holt and play golf in the local area. Cromer and its attractions are a 10-minute drive away. In this popular resort you’ll find a Victorian Pier, amusements, fish and chip shops and a sandy beach. Other places to visit within an hour’s drive include the city of Norwich and Blakeney, where there’s a National Trust nature reserve, unique tidal quayside and seal trips from the harbour.
CAERFAI BAY CARAVAN & TENT PARK Pembrokeshire St Davids, Havefordwest, Pembrokeshire SA62 6QT
01437 720274 caerfaibay.co.uk 1 March – 7 November
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Dreamstime
Caerfai Bay campsite sits within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Pembrokeshire section of the world’s first national coastal path, the 870-mile All Wales Coast Path, is adjacent to the site entrance. This provides short walks and longer routes to places like Solva or Whitesands for the more serious walker. Bus routes connect various parts of the coastal path, too. Stunning sea views are provided from the headland across to St Brides Bay. You can also access the small cove of Caerfai Beach from just outside the site entrance down a fairly steep set of steps. The site consists of three areas, with grass and hardstanding pitches with electric. Facilities include showers, toilets, family washrooms, a laundry, kitchen facilities and WiFi. St Davids, Europe’s smallest city, is a 15-minute walk away with many shops, places to eat and a superbly preserved cathedral.
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INSPIRATION Coastal Sites WHITECLIFF BAY HOLIDAY PARK Isle of Wight Hillway Road, Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5PL
01442 508850 awayresorts.co.uk/whitecliff-bay 9 April – 2 November
With 60 miles of unspoiled coastline and a ‘back in time’ kind of feel, the Isle of Wight offers a relaxing break. Whitecliff Bay is the perfect balance between a coast and country holiday, with rolling countryside and woodland on one side and a sandy beach on the other. The bay has a long, shallow beach that is great for paddling, plus there’s a beach café. Pitches on site range from basic grass to hardstandings with electric, and fully serviced pitches are available. There’s plenty to keep everyone happy including an outdoor and indoor pool, a nautical-themed covered play area, plus indoor and outdoor play areas. There’s even evening entertainment in peak season and daytime activities. For dining options, choose from the Nab Bar, the Culver Club Diner & Takeaway or the site’s shop. Just over a mile from the park is the National Trust’s Bembridge Windmill, the island’s only surviving windmill. You can venture inside, and outside there are walking and nature trails.
Folkestone CCC
DAMAGE BARTON CARAVAN & CAMPING SITE Devon Station Road, Mortehoe, Devon EX34 7EJ
01271 870502 damagebarton.co.uk 19 March – 30 October
If you don’t need your site to be directly on a beach’s golden sand, but would prefer a peaceful site with panoramic sea views, then Damage Barton could be the choice for you. The caravan and camping site covers 16 acres of a 600-acre working beef and sheep farm, situated on the north Devon coast between Woolacombe and Ilfracombe. There are many coastal walks to be enjoyed in the area – a route through the farm’s land leads to the South West Coast Path. Woolacombe’s award-winning beach is two miles away and there’s a bus stop at the site’s entrance. There are grass and hardstanding pitches on site, with two heated toilet blocks, family bathrooms, a shop, wetsuit washroom, picnic area, plus dog exercise paddocks and dog walk. The Tarka Trail cycle route along old railway lines is one mile from Damage Barton and both nearby Mortehoe and Woolacombe have a selection of good pubs, shops and restaurants on offer.
The Warren, Kent CT19 6NQ
01303 255093 campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk 1 April – 1 November
The Folkestone Club site occupies a dramatic clifftop position above the coastline between Folkestone and Dover. With the beach directly below, there are stunning views of the sea and to the white chalky cliffs that are renowned in this part of southern England. Behind the site is an area known as The Warren – a local nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. There are nature trails throughout the wooded area with an opportunity to spot rare plants and wildlife. You can also walk from the site along the cliffs and beach and even into nearby Folkestone in around an hour. The port town has plenty to see including a harbour, promenade and cobbled High Street where you can find some independent shops. On this Camping and Caravanning Club site there is a mix of grass and hardstanding pitches with electric if required. Facilities include toilets and showers, a family shower room, launderette, ice pack freezing and dishwashing sink area.
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Folkestone CCC
VisitBritain /Visit Devon /Neville Stannikk
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FOLKESTONE CAMPING AND CARAVANNING CLUB SITE Kent
ST IVES BAY HOLIDAY PARK, Cornwall 73 Loggans Road, Upton Towans, Hayle TR27 5BH
0800 317713 stivesbay.co.uk 30 March – 28 September
Location is everything and St Ives Bay Holiday Park certainly has an enviable one! Set in undulating sand dunes running down to a sandy three-mile-long stretch of beach, the site looks out over St Ives Bay and across to Godrevy Lighthouse situated on its own little island. Aside from the stunning beach there is plenty on site to enjoy. There is an independent surf school, an indoor pool, outdoor play area, crazy golf and tennis court. Even entertainment and meal times are covered thanks to the Bay Bistro, a shop and two bars on site, one for families and the other adults only. Grass camping pitches on site are available with electric hook-up, grouped in different areas across the site. There are also serviced pitches in a central, sheltered area, with the addition of a water supply and grey waste drain. Facilities include toilets, showers and washing up areas. Please note that this site does not accept pets.
CAMUSDARACH CAMPSITE Inverness-shire Camusdarach Lodge, Arisaig, Inverness-shire PH39 4NT
01687 450221 camusdarach.co.uk 1 April – 15 September
With woodland and fields surrounding this site in the Scottish Highlands, this is a beautiful location. Add to that the fact that the stunning, white-sand Camusdarach Beach is just over the dunes and this is a beach lover’s dream. The beach is an arc of glistening sand with views to the Isle of Skye and plenty of opportunities for swimming, rock pooling and walking. The site boasts 40 pitches and is sheltered by many mature trees. To make tent pitching easy there are 15 specific Tent Bays with grass mats, and a huge amount of space. The toilet and shower facilities also include a launderette and there is a small on-site shop. A takeaway serves hot drinks and baked goods, along with pizza in July and August. Both Arisaig and Mallaig are around 10 minutes’ drive away offering shops, places to eat and boat trips.
COUNTRY VIEW HOLIDAY PARK Somerset Sand Road, Sand Bay, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset BS22 9UJ
01934 627595 cvhp.co.uk 1 March – 31 January
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Pixabay
On the Somerset coast, close to Weston-super-Mare, Country View Holiday Park is just a five-minute walk from a vast, sandy, dog-friendly beach. Sand Bay beach is a long expanse of sand and shingle with a tea room by the beach and also a bus stop for easy access into nearby Weston-super-Mare. This larger resort has all the usual seaside fayre, including fish and chip shops, amusements, donkey rides and a Grand Pier with rides, cafés, a bar, restaurant, and be transported back to childhood at the Museum of Memories. The Country View site has grass and hardstanding pitches with or without electric hook-up in an area bordered by fields and farmland – sheep are your neighbours here. Facilities include toilets, showers, a dishwashing area, a laundry, heated outdoor pool, games rooms, play area, licensed bar and fiveacre dog walk. 1.5 miles from site are Weston Woods, a large woodland space with walking trails covering over 300 acres on Worlebury Hill above the town of Weston.
July 2021
Camping 31
INSPIRATION County Kerry
The magic of Kerry Prepare to be bewitched by Ireland – the scenery and ambience will be sure to work their magic on you Words and pictures: Vicki Lacy & Nick Walker
NOTE TO READERS For the latest advice on travelling to Ireland during the coronavirus pandemic, visit gov.uk/coronavirus Restrictions are constantly changing so readers must check with individual campsites, attractions and local government websites prior to making any travel arrangements.
32 Camping July 2021
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The walk up to Torc Mountain is accessible
S
Looking back along the Gap of Dunloe
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weating and puffing, I staggered up the last few metres of the Devil’s Ladder and threw myself down on the grassy col. Several choice words followed, but I’d done it. No matter that I still had 300m (984ft) of ascent to get to the top of Ireland’s highest mountain, I’d beaten the young whippersnapper without a rucksack who’d been on my tail for the past 100m (328ft) up the gully. This was the culmination of two magical weeks in Ireland for my partner, Nick, and I. We love hillwalking and Ireland had certainly delivered. We’d climbed big hills and not-sobig hills, with lasting memories of them all. Originally, we’d planned to follow the Wild Atlantic Way along the west coast but, after researching, decided to leave ourselves with enough time to explore properly rather than constantly driving. After much deliberation, we decided on County Kerry and the Iveragh and Dingle peninsulas in particular. Between them they offered lots of walking opportunities with mountains, lakes and coastline aplenty. We rolled off the Holyhead ferry in Dublin and headed straight towards our first campsite in Killarney. The town is ideally placed to explore the 26,000-acre Killarney National Park – home to Muckross House, Ross Castle, lakes, forests, waterfalls and MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range. The park entrance is just outside the town, with parking nearby, a bus service from town and bicycle hire available. To break our legs in gently, we opted for a level walk around the islands separating Muckross Lake and Lough Leane. The wellsignposted nine-mile trail has plenty of distractions along the way; you can spend some time exploring Muckross House or take a small detour from Dinis Cottage to the Meeting of the Waters where the Upper Lake joins the lower loughs. Much of the walk is
July 2021 Camping 33
INSPIRATION County Kerry
St Finian’s Bay was truly beautiful and endorsed our decision to take a bitesized chunk of the Wild Atlantic Way
Sea pinks clinging to the rocks in St Finian’s Bay
34 Camping July 2021
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THINKING OF GOING? INSURE WITH SHIELD FOR TOTAL PEACE OF MIND through woods and vegetation, so the water is hidden from sight a lot of the time. The appearances of the surrounding mountains – when they come – are spectacular, though we didn’t see any of the red squirrels and deer. We found a super picnic spot by the water at the side of Bricin Bridge and ate in peace while, behind us, the trail was getting busy with walkers and cyclists. The Gap of Dunloe – a scenic mountain pass not far from Killarney – was on our must-do list. We drove the short distance to Beaufort and hiked up to Tomies Mountain and along to Purple Mountain, so called as its rocks can look purple in a certain light. The views going up and down were amazing. Unluckily, the cloud came in as we walked along the top and we were denied the outlook down to the pass that we’d hoped for. The four-mile walk back along the gap to Beaufort, however, was glorious and doable if you just want to walk the road and back. Alternatively, you could hire a jaunting car (a traditional horse and cart driven by a ‘jarvey’). There are several lakes along the route to stop and rest. We rewarded ourselves with Sunday lunch and a welldeserved pint of Guinness in Kate Kearney’s Cottage. It's a popular spot where locals and tourists both mingle happily together. Our next destination was Glenbeigh and, following an overnight stop at the Glenross campsite, we drove out to Rossbeigh Strand, a seven-mile-long beach peninsula. We hiked up Curragh, a modest hill at only 260m (853ft). Whilst it was fairly overcast on the summit, there were glorious coastal views. Back at sea level we strolled along Rossbeigh Strand. It was so enjoyable that we completely lost track of time exploring its dunes and shoreline. Cahersiveen is well worth a visit, too. When we were there, the sky was clear, the sea calm and the sun sparkled off the water. It was just perfect. The Oratory Pizza and Wine Bar in a converted church in town offered good, tasty food. Nearby Cnoc na dTobar mountain (690m/2,264ft) has been a sacred pilgrimage site for centuries. Whilst a strenuous walk, it’s a good trail and easily navigable by the placement of several ‘stations of the cross’ depicting the Easter story. These were erected in the 1800s by a local parish priest. Local communities have since painted the crosses white and added additional markers to help guide the way. The scenes as you ascend are superlative, looking out towards Valentia Island and the North Atlantic. The summit plateau holds a large Celtic cross and was a welcome coffee break spot before our descent.
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July 2021 Camping 35
INSPIRATION County Kerry
Tourism Ireland Muckross House
We left mainland Kerry at Reenard Point to take the short, but exhilarating, ferry crossing to Valentia Island. Valentia has earned its place in communications history by being the site of the first successful transatlantic telegraph cable 155 years ago. The cable was laid from Foilhommerum Bay on the island to Newfoundland (over 1,600 nautical miles), making it possible to convey messages between North America and Europe in minutes rather than weeks. Looking over Foilhommerum Bay across to the Skellig Islands was fabulous. In the morning, we hiked the four-mile loop up to the signal tower on Bray Head and around the cliffs of the headland, with delightful views of the Skelligs on one side and the Dingle Peninsula's mountains on the other. It’s a straightforward walk, following an obvious trail to the tower and with marker posts on
TOP TIPS O Summit temperatures can often be much lower than those in the valley. Carrauntoohil was freezing at the top despite balmy temperatures in the valley. Take plenty of layers of clothing. O Ireland has varying access rights. Do as much research into your intended routes as you can. If in doubt, check.
36 Camping July 2021
the return journey. After crossing back to the mainland at Portmagee we had a relaxed day driving the Skellig Ring around the coast. One of our favourite spots was St Finian’s Bay, a tiny cove with a small sandy beach and lots of rocks to explore. It was truly beautiful and endorsed our decision to take a bite-sized chunk of the Wild Atlantic Way. It seemed that every stopping vehicle only lingered for a few minutes for the obligatory photographs before heading to the next viewpoint on the route, while we were able to spend a couple of hours there just soaking up the stunning view. We drove to the southern coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula and overnighted at the scenic Wave Crest campsite near Caherdaniel. This has several elevated pitches that overlook the rocky bay. It was a slightly nerve-wracking walk along the pathless main road back to Caherdaniel, but we took the site owner’s recommendation to visit the Blind Piper pub for a great meal. As a storm hit the west coast we hunkered down in Tralee for a couple of days. With better weather promised, we set off along the north coast of Dingle to Mount Brandon,
Ireland’s third highest. It’s another pilgrimage site but, at 952m (3,123ft), a slightly more serious undertaking. Whilst there are painted trail markings along the route we took, it is rocky and exposed in places. Back on the coast we found Murphy’s Bar, overlooking Brandon Harbour. We spent several happy hours in the cosy pub. We headed south to Dingle to see what the town had to offer. The roads are scenic whichever route you take. Dingle is a quaint little town to wander around, full of brightly coloured buildings, with plenty of pubs and eateries to choose from. From Dingle, we drove to Lough Annascaul, in an impressive setting with mountains towering on three sides. The lough was our start point for a hike up to Beenoskee Mountain. A good trail runs through the valley, accompanied by the sparkling stream that feeds the lake, gradually climbing before emerging onto a saddle with scenery that takes your breath away. A couple behind us went no further, choosing to enjoy their picnic and soak up the perspective back down the valley. We continued to the summit of Beenoskee but, with no obvious trail, this proved tough
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4 STAY AT FLEMING’S WHITE BRIDGE HOLIDAY PARK Ballycasheen Road, Killarney, Co Kerry 00353 646 631590 killarneycamping.com OPEN 19 March – 25 October GLENROSS CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK Glenbeigh, Co Kerry 00353 669 768451 campingkerry.com OPEN 2 April – 1 October WAVE CREST CARAVAN & CAMPING Caherdaniel, Co Kerry 00353 669 475188 wavecrestcamping.com OPEN All year WOODLANDS PARK TOURING CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK Dan Spring Road, Tralee, Co Kerry 00353 667 121235 kingdomcamping.com OPEN March – October MANNIX POINT CAMPING PARK Cahirciveen, Ring of Kerry Coast,
Vicki victorious at Beenoskee summit
going. At the summit, once again Kerry delivered the amazing sights that we’d started taking for granted: soaring mountain vistas, sensational coastline and verdant valleys lay all around. It was rewarding, too, to look across Dingle Bay and pick out places on the Iveragh Peninsula that we’d visited the previous week. Ready to rest our legs, we headed back to Dingle and the Slea Head Drive, a sensational 30-mile route that hugs the coastline for the most part. We passed the Blasket Centre, which tells the story of island life (it’s possible to take a ferry to the now uninhabited islands). Further along the route, we walked out to Clogherhead with its stunning tableau of the dramatic coastline across to the Three Sisters. The next morning we were up early for our hike up the popular Torc Mountain. The route is a mixture of trail, rocky steps and railway sleepers, which made for an easy climb. Torc Mountain is only 535m (1,755ft) and less than a 350m (1,148ft) ascent from the car park, but, once again, this was a little mountain with big views, suitable for most ages and abilities. Our final mountain adventure brought us full circle and back to Ireland’s highest. At 1,038m (3,405ft), Carrauntoohil is part of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. It’s a popular mountain but shouldn’t be underestimated, which is why Kerry Mountain Rescue describes it as ‘challenging’ compared to other Irish summits.
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The traditional starting point is from Cronin’s Yard in Mealis and we overnighted in the car park. The trail meanders through the Hags Glen, crossing the river running through the valley a few times. If a mountain walk doesn’t appeal, there is a looping route through this picturesque valley that turns around before any serious ascent begins. We had decided on the ominously named Devil’s Ladder gully as our route up. Although badly eroded, it is the quickest ascent. It’s a
Co Kerry 00353 669 472806 campinginkerry.com OPEN Easter – 15 September
demanding climb, though, and, once at the top, there’s a further 300m (984ft) ascent on a broad slope to reach Carrauntoohil’s summit, marked with a simple wooden cross. The summit vistas were magnificent and we finished our holiday on a high – literally! So, 16 days, eight mountains later, we are in love with Ireland and want to return for longer. We’ve learnt a lot during this trip – in the meantime, we’re off to find another mountain! See you on a summit somewhere, soon. Kate Kearney’s Cottage is a popular gathering place
July 2021 Camping 37
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July 2021 Camping 39
INSPIRATION Kent
Marvellous Medway As a devoted fan of Call the Midwife, Lynn Osborne headed to Kent to explore where it was filmed
Medway is an area with a rich military and maritime heritage as well as being the home of Charles Dickens
W
hen my eldest daughter, Amy, fell pregnant, she suggested a Mother’s Day treat of a Call the Midwife tour around Chatham Historic Dockyard; the place where a lot of the episodes had been filmed. I had always been a fan of the show and was delighted with the idea so she booked a tour for me, her and my mum. I wondered what else we could do in the area over a short break. A look on the Visit Medway website revealed an area with a rich military and maritime heritage as well as being the home of Charles Dickens. Rochester was top of the list to visit with a cathedral, Norman castle,
40 Camping July 2021
Guildhall Museum and its Dickens links including the Swiss chalet where he worked on several of his novels. Fort Amherst also looked like another must-visit place as Britain’s biggest Napoleonic fortress sited next to the Great Lines Heritage Park. The Royal Engineers Museum in Gillingham housed tanks, rockets, guns and a piece of the Berlin Wall which got my husband very excited. As if that wasn’t enough, Medway has another castle, Upnor Castle, built by Sir Richard Lee as a gun fort designed to defend the dockyard. Tanner Farm Touring Caravan and
Camping Park in Marden is a lovely, quiet site set in the Kent countryside and a short drive from Medway. We set off early for our day at Chatham Historic Dockyard. Our tour wasn’t until the afternoon but we wanted to make the most of the day and see as much of the dockyard as we could. On the way we joked that Amy might have to call her own midwife as she only had a few days before her baby's due date! Arriving at the dockyard we were greeted in reception and told our ‘midwife’ would meet us by the historic warship HMS Cavalier and to be there five minutes before the start of the tour.
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We had several hours to explore before that so had a look at what else we could do. Chatham Dockyard was established by Henry VIII in the 1550s and was used by the Royal Navy to build ships, and later submarines, until its closure in 1984. At its height the site occupied over 400 acres! The current 80-acre site is now a visitors attraction and, in addition to the Call the Midwife tour, is filled with historical Georgian and Victorian architecture and gardens, a Second World War destroyer, a Victorian sloop, a Cold War submarine, a working ropery housed in a building almost a quarterof-a-mile long, a gallery with seasonal exhibitions, an interactive gallery called Command of the Oceans, a museum and so much more. We started off looking around the Command of the Oceans galleries that tell
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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Call The Midwife O HMS Cavalier O Interior of Nonnatus house O Medway maritime history O Rochester High Street
July 2021 Camping 41
INSPIRATION Kent
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Anchor and historic ships O Views from Rochester Castle O Tattoo exhibition O Sweeps festival from the previous year O Maritime history
the story of the dockyard as well as showing what life was like in the heyday of sail. We learnt that HMS Victory was built at Chatham Dockyard; last summer we had visited Portsmouth Dockyard and looked around the Victory so it was interesting seeing how it had been designed and built. The galleries were
L NEED TO KNOW O Call The Midwife Official Location Tour A walking tour of the filming locations in Chatham Historic Dockyard and entry to exhibition of filming props Adult tickets £25 thedockyard.co.uk/whats-on/call-themidwife-location-tours O Chatham Dockyard An 80-acre site with historic ships and regular exhibitions Adult tickets £25 Child tickets £15 Family tickets £66 Tickets valid for one year thedockyard.co.uk O Rochester Historic city with a cathedral and castle visitmedway.org english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ rochester-castle rochestercathedral.org
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really interesting and before we knew it an hour had gone by, it was time to see more of the dockyard. Next stop was the RNLI Historic Lifeboat Collection and No 3 Slip, a huge space with over 400 windows in its roof. When it was built it was the largest wide-span timber building in Europe. I used to be a technical illustrator and author in the aircraft industry. The huge space, old bits of engineering and smell of oil (even through a face covering!) took me back 30 years and reminded me of the shop floor at work. At this point we decided we needed refreshments so had a nice lunch and cuppa in the Mess Deck restaurant before heading into No 1 Smithery with its huge collection of artefacts, artwork and models. We were blown away by the number of models and the detail each had. The historic models showed how ships had been constructed and showed the development in design. No 1 Smithery also houses a temporary exhibition gallery and when we visited it was showing ‘Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed’. The exhibition displayed tattoo artwork and artefacts, including a wall of 100 silicone arms that had been tattooed by leading UK artists. It was fascinating to see the different styles and how tattooing had developed over the centuries from Jolly Jack Tar to Neo Tribal. Time was running away with us and we hadn’t seen even half of what was on offer at
the dockyard but it was time for our Call the Midwife tour, so we made our way over. We were soon joined by our tour guide dressed in a 1950s midwife uniform looking like she had just stepped off the show. She explained that the dockyard had been used as a location for many films and TV programmes including Les Misérables, Sherlock Holmes, The Golden Compass and of course Call the Midwife. The tour took us around the dockyard with frequent stops to explain what scenes had been filmed where and how the set dressers had cleverly recreated 1950s Poplar. We could instantly recognise the different places. The Christmas Special, showing the long winter of 1962 to 1963 when it started to snow on Christmas Eve and didn’t thaw until March, was filmed during a heatwave in July. The poor actors had to wear coats and jumpers in 34-degree heat. Because the dockyard is a historical site, only certain materials and paints can be used so the snow drifts and ice were made using polystyrene models dressed with tiny bits of paper that would wash harmlessly away. They kept the camera angles low so the trees around the dockyard wouldn’t be seen in full bloom. Part of the tour included an exhibition with costumes and props from the show. My mum loved seeing the inside of Nonnatus House with the table laid for dinner and the mock-up of Dr Turner’s surgery. I was blown away by the toys that were used in the show, I
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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Midwife uniform from Call The Midwife O Rochester Cathedral O Tattoo exhibition
remember playing with similar ones as a child – I must be getting old! Most of the filming took part around the ropery, a Georgian/Victorian building almost a quarter-of-a-mile long with a cobbled street running alongside; it was a very imposing and atmospheric place. The tour guide showed us where Chummy learnt to ride her bike, the front of the police station and the pub where Nurse Dyer had pulled pints. We ended the tour in the Commissioner’s House garden, a beautiful Georgian building now used for weddings and functions. It was in the garden that Trixie ended her relationship with Christopher. There was still much to see, but the dockyard was closing so we decided to head to the nearby shopping outlet for some food. Over pizza we all agreed the dockyard was worthy of another visit. The following day we had a big decision to make; there was lots to see but limited time so we agreed to visit Rochester and put the Royal Engineers Museum, Great Lines Heritage Park, Fort Amherst and Upnor Castle on our ‘to do’ list for another visit. Rochester is well known for its Dickens links and hosts two Dickens festivals each year, one in June and another in December with people dressing up as Dickens characters. The pictures online looked amazing and the Visit Medway website has plenty of information about the Dickens events and the annual Sweeps Festival where
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hundreds of sweeps from around England gather to celebrate May Day. Rochester is a quaint mixture of medieval, Georgian and Victorian buildings with lots of interesting shops and cafés, many with Dickensian names and links. We particularly liked Tiny Tim’s Tea Rooms which does the most amazing afternoon tea. One of the most impressive buildings in Rochester is Eastgate House, a beautiful Elizabethan listed building that has been used as a Victorian boarding school, a museum and was the inspiration for Charles Dickens' The Pickwick Papers and The Mystery of Edwin Drood. The Swiss chalet where Dickens wrote stands in the gardens, having been relocated from his home in Gad's Hill. A slow amble up the high street brought us to Sweet Expectations, an olde-worlde sweet shop crammed with traditional jars. The aroma was amazing and took me back to my childhood when my 10p pocket money could buy a hefty bag of sweets. Opposite Sweet Expectations we found Rochester Cathedral, and unlike a lot of cathedrals we have visited, it was free. Founded by St Justus as a place of worship in 604AD, Rochester is England’s second-oldest cathedral. Stepping through the Great West Door into the nave we could sense the history and centuries of worship. We walked along the nave admiring the Norman architecture and stained-glass
windows up to the stunning quire. It was interesting to see ancient graffiti, mostly ship images, carved into the pillars. It’s believed a shrine to St Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors was in the nave, prompting many to carve images before setting sail. We followed the Pilgrim Steps, worn away by centuries of pilgrims up to the sanctuary, and enjoyed a few moments in this quiet place. It’s worth mentioning Rochester Cathedral website has a virtual and audio tour narrated by Jools Holland. We had a leisurely walk around the cathedral gardens before making our way up to Rochester Castle. This impressive and wellpreserved Norman castle, built in 1087, stands proudly on top of a hill overlooking Rochester and the River Medway and is reputed to be the tallest castle in England. Three days after our tour, Amy had to call the midwife for real – welcome to the world, baby Madison Katelyn Jones!
4 STAY AT TANNER FARM PARK Goudhurst Road, Marden, Kent TN12 9ND 01622 832399 tannerfarmpark.co.uk Open All year Price From £22.20
July 2021 Camping 43
INSPIRATION Sites for Of cycling INSPIRATION Campsite The Month
Campsite Of The Month
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Dornafield Caravan Park Devon
Enjoy the tranquillity of this beautiful, award-winning campsite in the stunning south Devon countryside
Dornafield Farm
W
ith Dartmoor National Park in one direction and the stunning beaches of the English Riviera in the other, Dornafield has a truly fantastic location. It’s a beautiful site – surrounded by woodland and countryside, and with pretty plantings and hedges within the touring areas. The multi-award-winning park is set within a 14th century farmstead that covers 30 acres in total, midway between Exeter and Plymouth. Pitches on the three camping areas are level and the award-winning facilities include toilets, showers, vanity cubicles, launderettes, dishwashing
44 Camping July 2021
sinks and a vegetable preparation area. For your convenience there is an on-site shop, games room, tennis court, adventure playgrounds and dog walking areas. A local bakery delivers fresh bread to the site shop every day – with the croissants especially popular! The shop also sells free range eggs, milk and cream from a local dairy. You can also keep tabs on the site’s wildlife, with updates on the nesting swallows and in the information room there’s plenty to help you identify the flowers, insects and any other wild beasts you come across during your stay. The focal point of the site is the farmhouse, once besieged by Roundheads in the Civil War. These days, the farm buildings house reception, the shop and games room. The farmyard where the cattle used to wait to be milked is now a stunning floral courtyard area. Morris dancing and barbecues take place here. Away from the site, you can explore the quiet coves of the South Hams and the busy shops, cafes and restaurants of Exeter and Plymouth, and the lovely towns of Totnes and Dartmouth. You’ll find all the gen on exploring the area in the information centre.
The Blackrock Copse play area
y INFORMATION 4 STAY AT
DORNAFIELD CARAVAN PARK Two Mile Oak, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ12 6DD 01803 812732 dornafield.com OPEN 12 March – 3 November PRICE From £20 FACILITIES O Two laundries O WiFi access O Indoor games room with table tennis, pool and darts O Two adventure play areas plus all-weather tennis court O Well stocked shop O Two dog exercise areas
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COMPETITION
WIN
We’ve teamed up with Outdoor Revolution to bring you the chance to win a fabulous Camp Star 600 tent, plus sun canopy and side porch, worth £1,038. The six-berth inflatable is the winner of Camping magazine’s Best Value Family Tent award for 2021. It represents excellent value for money, and is ideal for families seeking spacious internal living space. For functionality, flexibility and innovation, it’s unrivalled at this price. The internal design offers the perfect allocation of usable space for families, split between the enclosed front porch, a generous communal area, and the sleeping area. The darkened ‘Twilight’ fabric sixperson bedroom can be split into a 2/2/2 configuration, using the toggled dividers.
WORTH OVER £1,000
A SUPERB OUTDOOR REVOLUTION FAMILY TENT BUNDLE!
Airflow comes from the bedroom ventilation system, and mesh ventilation flyscreen panels. Crystal-clear window panels create a bright, airy internal space. The enclosed front porch provides an ideal area for relaxation, cooking, or dining and the tent also comes with with a Dura-tread carpet and a footprint groundsheet. Our prize package includes the coordinated Camp Star Sun Canopy which can be toggled onto the front to create a sheltered area for al fresco relaxation, cooking, or storage. Also provided in the prize is a Camp Star Side Porch. It features two side windows, toggle-in curtains and a removable PE groundsheet. The porch also takes an optional two-berth darkened inner to create an extra bederoom or a toilet/utility area.
HOW TO ENTER To enter, visit outandaboutlive.co.uk/ camping/competitions and click on the Outdoor Revolution competition. For a chance to win this great family tent, just answer this simple question and leave your details.
How many sleeping berths does the Camp Star 600 have? A: Four berths B: Six berths C: Ten berths The closing date is 31 July 2021. Terms and conditions apply, please see the website for all the details.
For more information visit outdoor-revolution.com 46 Camping July 2021
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AdobeStock
Law of the CAMPSITE
Newly vaccinated Gillian Law ponders whether she should glam up her tent life
“I feel more joy in small things – I’ve started to notice each new plant as it comes into bloom in the local park and in people’s gardens”
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OOOF. Could someone maybe make me a cup of tea? Strong, please, with lots of milk. I’m writing this while propped up in bed, still in my pyjamas at 11.03am. I got my first Covid jab four days ago and thought I had got away without any side effects. And now I find myself here, overwhelmed with fatigue. I feel like a Victorian lady, swooning on my velvet chaise longue. With a bit of luck, it won’t last too long – I have things to do! And what things. I do hope I’m not being too optimistic but I feel a fizzing inside me every time I think about life returning to even halfway normal. First of all, the vaccine itself. I was counting down the days until I could get it, but I hadn’t anticipated the enormous wave of relief it would bring. Even as I sat waiting the obligatory 15 minutes to see if I would keel over after getting it done, I felt the sort of joy that I normally associate with planning a great camping trip! Just a feeling of vistas and possibilities opening, and a stress sliding from my shoulders. Each day that passes will see my immune system grow stronger. Now, I know all the reality, that this isn’t the end and I can’t just fling off my cares and go partying where I like. But here’s hoping this really is the start of a new, easier existence for us! I think the travails of the past year have changed me a bit. In good ways, I hope. I see the world a bit differently, and I appreciate things I’ve always just taken for granted. I really do feel more joy in small things – I’ve started to notice each new plant as it comes into bloom in the local park and in people’s gardens, and I’ve started sending photos to my gardening-
mad family. “What’s this one? It smells gorgeous.” It’s also made me long for the joy of camping with people you love, and the connection you find – something you just don’t get in a hotel or even sharing an apartment. Making coffee and bacon rolls in the morning chill, watching the sun come up and sharing stories of how you slept and “did you hear something snuffling, about 3am?”. It’s been too long, my friends! Do you think you’ll change the way you camp? I’ve spent a lot of time looking at people’s “van life” photos over the past few months and pondering how it could be adapted to tents. My camping is always very sensible and plain – an inflatable mat, a cosy sleeping bag and I’m done. But maybe it’s time to step it up a bit – never mind the cliché of fairy lights around the yurt doorway, why don’t I find myself a few homespun fluffy blankets, stylish mismatched cushions, maybe a carefully knotted rag rug in muted pastels and some scented candles… and replace my plastic crockery with some charmingly chipped china? Hmm. It’s a nice idea and the photos of the first day would be lovely. But my camping always eventually involves mud or mess. There’s no point setting all this up, only to get annoyed when I find a sandy footprint on my rag rug! I’ll leave the multicoloured bunting and wicker basket shelving to the people in their campervans, and just carry on stuffing what I need into my bike panniers. It’s been a tough year or so and I’m glad you’re still here, reading this, sharing the love of camping. Or if you’re new to camping and to Camping, welcome – it’s a great world.
July 2021 Camping 47
THE KNOWLEDGE
SKILLS
TENT REPAIRS stock.adobe.com
Top tips and expert advice from the Camping team
This tent is beyond repair!
stock.adobe.com
Get a fix on tent repairs Don’t give into throwaway culture… a tent is a big investment but look after it properly and you could make it last for years. Here’s our guide to essential tent fixes
Duck tape is an essential piece of kit
A split pole can be fixed with tape
48 Camping July 2021
I
t doesn’t matter how carefully you look after your tent, there’s a fair chance that it will eventually suffer some damage. But instead of binning it and buying a replacement, why not try a bit of DIY repair work? Chances are, if something goes wrong it’s likely to be while you are on site. Running repairs can limit further damage and hopefully keep the elements out. Every camper should have a roll of duck tape in their kit – it’s useful for emergency repairs on everything from broken poles to ripped fabric and damaged PVC windows. Once you’re back home you can think about longer-term repairs. Some rips can be simply sewn back together, either by hand or with a sewing machine, then coated on both sides with seam sealant. For ragged tears and seams it makes sense to add a patch. Gluing as well as sewing the patch on will make the repair more durable and, again, you should apply a seam sealant to keep water out.
POLES For an effective temporary repair to a snapped pole, slide a short metal tube over the break and tape in place. Most repair kits will come with one of these sleeves but if yours has gone missing (or has already been used), then a length of tube of the correct diameter from a hardware shop will do the trick. If a fibreglass pole splits along its length, the answer is to wrap the pole in duck tape. A wide range of spares is available, including spring clips for poles, pole kits and sections and shock cord repair kits. FLYSHEETS Tents are able to take quite a lot of abuse but every now and then the fabric will be torn and a repair is needed. As they are not meant to be waterproof, inner tents can be stitched up fairly easily, even when torn in a ragged pattern. But damage to the outer waterproof flysheet
is different. First of all, check the overall state of the fabric. If the damage is down to material being weakened and worn out by age or the effects of the sun, then a temporary fix might be all that is possible and a new tent will need to be added to your shopping list. An accidental tear or hole in a newer tent with years of life ahead of it needs a different approach. Self-adhesive patches or a short length of duck tape can be used as an emergency fix for a small tear or hole. But make sure the area around the damage is clean and dry to ensure a secure fix. Spray all around the repaired area with reproofer to make it more waterproof. Tent windows can also be repaired with tape – and you can even get clear versions if you prefer. Once home, it is time to assess the problem and decide how best to deal with it for the long term. A nylon flysheet that is torn cleanly is relatively easy to hand-sew or run through a domestic sewing machine. Once the repair is done, paint on both sides with seam sealant. It pays to add plenty of extra stitching at each end of the rip to ease the inevitable weakness under strain. Sometimes ragged tears and seams are too awkward to sew and if that is the case it makes sense to add a patch. Make sure it is big enough to cover the rip generously with edges folded under to avoid them unravelling. Gluing as well as sewing the patch helps to spread the strain on stitches but ensure the glue won’t damage the material. Sewing patches together on each side of the rip or hole, gluing them and applying seam sealant should ensure a durable flysheet repair. INFLATABLE BEAMS On inflatable tents, the air tubes are tough and should provide years of trouble-free camping if you follow the instructions. But if you do get a puncture it’s possible to repair it yourself, at least until you can contact your dealer to organise a replacement. First of all, don’t open the protective sleeve until you’re sure you have a leak and never open it when it’s fully inflated. If a tube appears to have lost pressure, it may actually be due to environmental factors – pressure can drop in cold temperatures so you may need to add air to compensate, particularly at night. If you are sure you have a puncture, let out all the air and try to locate the damage. Look for visible damage and if that doesn’t help, pump in some air and listen closely for air escaping or feel it against your cheek. Apply a little water to the spot you suspect as small
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REPAIR KIT
For inflatable tent repair stock.adobe.com
Tent repair patches
Pole repair on site
bubbles will show up. Once you’ve found the puncture, mark the damaged area, completely deflate the tube and open the sleeve zip until you reach the location of the leak. Clean the area around the puncture then cut out and carefully apply a repair patch (Stormsure, Tear-Aid and Storm all supply suitable products), ensuring that it’s smooth and there are no air bubbles present. Once the adhesive is dry, replace the sleeve and inflate, leaving overnight to make sure the repair has worked. In an emergency, you can also use duck tape, although this is unlikely to be a long-term solution. When you get home, contact your retailer and find out about a replacement tube.
GUYLINES Guyropes can get worn through friction, especially the loop that goes around the peg. Pack a decent length of spare cord and a few adjustable runners.
ZIPS Zips are one of the simplest parts of the tent design but one that can go wrong so easily. Pitching the tent properly should avoid the problem of the zips bursting open because the fabric is drawn too tight. The other side of the coin is catching loose fabric in the zip’s teeth. You need to avoid damaging zip and fabric. Keep the zips free of dirt or grit to help them to run freely and if all else fails, make sure you pack a few safety pins to secure the door.
GROUNDSHEETS Sewn-in groundsheets can easily be damaged by stones on your pitch. A tear or hole can be fixed with a patch but if there is a lot of damage then it’s impossible to fix. The problem then is if you have a sewn-in groundsheet, your entire tent is rendered useless. The best way to avoid this is to use a groundsheet footprint from the start. This protects the groundsheet from any sharp objects on the pitch and is much easier to clean when you get home.
1 DUCK TAPE Every kit should have a roll. Has a million uses on the campsite – from temporarily patching a ripped flysheet to treating blistered feet. 2 SPARE LENGTH OF POLE If a repair is impossible, a length of pole is the solution. Some tents come with one included but if not you should be able to buy one from your local retailer or direct from the manufacturer. 3 SELF-ADHESIVE TENT PATCHES These will cover up any small rips or punctures in your tent’s fabric for the length of your holiday They come in various fabrics and colours – in fact, your tent might even come supplied with a patch of its own. Include a small bottle of reproofer in your kit to spray onto the patch and keep your tent protected from water ingress. 4 NEEDLE AND THREAD Split seams and peg loops or guyline anchors coming loose are common problems. A small sewing kit will let you to deal with simple repairs like this. 5 SPARE GUYLINES Guyropes can get worn through friction, especially the loop that goes around the peg. Pack a decent length of cord and a few adjustable runners for an instant repair. 6 SEAM SEALANT Leaking seams can be repaired by painting sealer onto the seam. It’ll take a couple of days to dry fully – and you have to hope there will be no rain in the meantime.
How to repair a pole
7 BITS & PIECES A wide range of spares is available at specialist stores including spring clips for poles, pole kits and sections and shock cord repair kits.
Spare poles and rope
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July 2021 Camping 49
THE KNOWLEDGE
SKILLS
SELF-SUFFICIENT CAMPING
Top tips and expert advice from the Camping team
Sea To Summit Pocket Shower
Keep to yourself How to be totally self-sufficient on your camping trips after lockdown A Quechua shower tent and solar camping pressure shower
50 Camping July 2021
C
ampsites in parts of the UK have finally reopened after months of lockdown. But, while shared toilet and wash blocks and some shower facilities are allowed to operate under strict guidelines, many campsites have chosen not to fully open their facilities yet. Most tent campers rely on the on-site loos, so on campsites where amenity blocks are closed, they will need to bring their own washing and toilet facilities. If that’s the case – or if you don’t feel comfortable with using shared facilities yet – now is the time to think about the camping gear you will need to let you to remain totally self-contained. You should also check in advance if your campsite will allow you to use your own facilities. Some campsites might not have a chemical disposal point for getting rid of waste. And shower tents are also banned by some sites because of the
damage the waste water could do to the grass.
O ESSENTIAL KIT FOR SELF-CONTAINED CAMPING CAMPING TOILETS Portable camping toilets range from basic ‘bucket’ type models to proper loos with flushable tanks. The most basic approach is a bucket with some cat litter to absorb the smell. But due to the need for regular emptying, this would probably be an emergency-only option! A similar concept, but a little more advanced, would be the Bog-in-a-Bag, which is lightweight and disposable and a good choice for festivals. Another simple option is the Popaloo, which uses a dry powder waste gelling system and biodegradable bags. The toilet itself folds flat into a carry case so is easy to transport. The next level up is a simple, non-flushing portable toilet, like the Kampa Khazi (and the larger King Khazi), the Big Loo from Outdoor Revolution and Outwell’s 7L portable toilet. These are relatively lightweight and compact and can cost under £20. For longer trips, flushing portable toilets offer more in the way of comfort and convenience. Options include the Porta Potti range from Thetford, Outwell’s Portable
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Bottle shower and shower stand
Do your dishwashing in the tent
Olpro shower tent
Toilet, available in two sizes, and the Campingaz 20L toilet. The eco-friendly Blue Diamond Nature Calls is a portable composting toilet that uses coffee chaff or sawdust to dry out the solid waste, mask the smell and remove the need for water or chemicals.
charged from a USB. An adjustable shower stand lets you fix the showerhead so you have two hands free. Quechua’s pressure-balanced solar shower will heat up the water and provide decent flow without electricity – the water is pressurised using the hand pump. The most basic type of camping shower is the Bottleshower. This little gadget will let you turn a water or soft drinks bottle into an outdoor shower simply by hanging it from a tree with the supplied harness. Using a 1.5-litre bottle, we timed it as providing twoand-a-half minutes of shower time.
TOILET PAPER In theory you can use regular loo roll in your flushing camping toilet, but wet toilet paper can form clumps and clog up the tank. Specially designed, fast-dissolving toilet paper such as Thetford’s Aqua Soft would be a better option. TOILET CHEMICALS Toilet chemicals are widely available from camping and outdoor shops and for a flushing portable toilet, you’ll need two liquid chemicals. The pink liquid is a cleaner for the flushing tank, while the blue chemical goes into the waste tank to prevent odours. You can also buy a green alternative to the blue liquid, which uses more natural methods to break down waste. Thetford has a large range of pink, blue and green products, including sachets, which are a convenient alternative to bulky bottles of liquid. Kampa has also launched a range of eco-friendly toilet liquid, which comes in the more pleasant fragrances of spearmint, pomegranate and pine. SHOWERS For a quick wash, simple solar showers can produce plenty of warm water and prices start at just £5.99. No electricity source is needed, as they work off gravity. For a more powerful water flow, use an electric shower that works from a 12V source, such as the Streetwize Portable Shower. The rechargeble Colapz shower is another electric shower, but instead of operating directly from the 12V power source, it can be
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TOILET/SHOWER TENTS Once you have chosen your toilet and shower, you’ll need to decide where to set them up. In larger family tents, you could set up a toilet area inside your tent if it has an enclosed side porch or a spare bedroom. However the more common solution is to buy a stand-alone, pop-up toilet tent. Olpro, Kampa, Zempire and Quechua are among the brands that produce these simple tents, which can be used both as a toilet and a shower cubicle. Most of these tents are similar in style, but some come with different features, including hanging points for showers, waterproof loo roll holders, and even signs outside to show if they are occupied or not! If you are using a shower, you could use interlocking foam tiles as a base to keep your feet out of the muddy mess at the bottom. A far better option is to buy a small kids’ paddling pool to catch the water. This prevents damage to the campsite grass and avoids the build-up of mud.
on the environment as, no matter how careful you are, there is always a chance that waste water will leak into the land or onto watercourses. Sea To Summit produces a concentrated, biodegradable, multipurpose washing liquid that can be used on the skin, for dishes and on clothing. A similar product is available at Decathlon stores, which can be picked up for a couple of pounds. If you decide to keep clean with wet wipes instead of using a shower, make sure you choose biodegradable versions. You can buy large, biodegradable body wipes: however you should never use traditional baby wipes for freshening up, as these contain plastics that will never break down. The other option is to use dry wash products, which are widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies. Shower In A Can contains the equivalent of 20 showers, with no water or drying required. DISHWASHING The communal washing-up sinks are in use on most campsites but if they haven’t yet reopened on your site, or if you prefer not to use them, then you will have to wash up at your tent. Kitchen units like the Outwell Drayton are available with worktops and built-in washbasins, which means you can do the washing up in your camping kitchen. Remember you will need to heat up the water yourself. Always use eco-friendly washing liquids and pour the used water down an appropriate drain, not into the nearest hedge or stream.
TOILETRIES If you are showering outside, use products that won’t have a detrimental effect
July 2021 Camping 51
THE KNOWLEDGE
SKILLS
ORGANISING YOUR TENT
Top tips and expert advice from the Camping team
Get organised A tidy tent is a tidy mind. Follow our guide to arranging your camping gear on trips and keeping your tent organised and shipshape PACK CLEVER When you pack your car, put the things you’ll need first (eg your tent) into the boot last so you don’t have to drag everything out and leave it lying on the ground.
or in one of the tent’s storage pockets.
KEEP IT LIGHT To avoid unnecessary fumbling around in the dark, always make sure your head torches are easy to find. Store them in the same place every time – ideally hung near the main door
BOX CLEVER Tote boxes are the family camper’s best friend; good for storing footwear, first aid kits, games, food and cooking gear. In fact, pretty much everything. Filled properly, they make finding stuff much easier, especially if you label each box with its contents. Boxes with lids can be neatly stacked on top of each other inside your tent. Keep a small box next to each sleeping bag where torches, water bottles, phones, books and other personal belongings can be stored safely. Really Useful boxes or Lock & Lock are perfect for this. And those mesh storage
Have a packing plan
Plastic boxes are a camper’s best friend
BEDS FIRST Set up beds and sleeping bags as soon as the tent is pitched then you can use the bedrooms to keep gear out of the way as you set it up.
52 Camping July 2021
pockets built in to most tents are not just for decoration – use them! Collapsible dish bowls are brilliant to put dirty dishes in and to transport them to and from the sinks. PART OF THE FURNITURE On a longer holiday in a large tent you have the chance to set up up properly. To make your tent more comfortable to spend time in, invest in some storage furniture for your living, sleeping and kitchen areas where you can neatly stash clothes, cooking gear and food. Camping cupboards and wardrobes come in all sizes – some have shelving and drawers and the hard tops provide useful worktop space.
Watertight containers
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Worktop space keeps everything tidy
A full kitchen unit
Keep food in cupboards
Use the storage pockets
Stash away plates, cups, etc
TOY STORY Limit the amount of toys and other gubbins you let the kids bring and keep them in a container with a lid (the toys, not the kids. Although, sometimes…). SOCKS APPEAL Keep socks and underwear in separate zipped bags inside your holdall to make them easier to find.
Living room storage
USE ALL YOUR SPACE… If you have a spare room or an annexe in the tent, use it for storing stuff like holdalls, coolboxes, washbags or kit for outdoor activities. Zipping up the door will make the main living area feel less cluttered. This could also be used as a kids’ playroom on rainy days.
A handy side annexe
PICK THE PERFECT PITCH Sorting out your tent is only part of the story. Being organised also means choosing the pitch that best suits your needs to make sure you make the most out of your stay
LAUNDRY DAYS Put everyone’s dirty clothes in a large laundry bag or storage box and, if you’ve got room, keep it in the car.
…OR USE YOUR CAR If space is an issue in your tent, store your holdall containing clean clothes in the car. But to avoid having to go out early in the morning, bring in the following day’s clothes the night before.
• Would you rather pitch your tent on a spot with a great view? Close to the toilet block? As far away as possible from the clubhouse? Under trees for shade? If you have a choice of pitches, take a walk around the site before you decide and see where is best. Ask the warden where they would recommend.
BRUSH IT OFF A small plastic brush and dustpan helps you keep the tent clean and will prevent small stones being trodden into the groundsheet.
STRIKING CAMP It’s time to go home… boo! Have a plan for how you’re going to pack the boot and empty the tent in the right order.
• Look out for noisy roads and railway lines near your potential pitch that might not be immediately obvious.
GET KIDS INVOLVED Make your kids responsible for tidying up their sleeping area every morning.
KEEP IT CLEAN Clean off any mud and bird poo from the flysheet before you start packing away.
• If you plan to revisit a site you love in the future, note which pitch suits you best and request it when you place your booking.
TUB THUMPING Store condiments like salt, pepper, tea bags, etc in small plastic tubs with watertight lids.
BAG IT UP Keep a few plastic bags to hand for packing away wet, muddy items. Pack dirty clothes in a separate holdall so the washing machine can be loaded as soon as you get home.
• Try to pitch your tent with the main door facing away from the prevailing wind.
WELCOME MAT Place a rubber-backed doormat just inside your tent entrance to keep the floor clean and dry. Outwell tents are all supplied with one!
• Check the land before you pitch – those dips could turn into water traps if it rains. • Pitch close enough to the electric hook-up point to ensure your cable can reach the tent. If necessary, ask the site if they have an extension lead you could borrow or hire. • Clear twigs and stones from your pitch to help reduce the possibility of punctures and tears in your groundsheet. • Take time to familiarise yourself with the location of services like taps, waste disposal points and emergency fire-fighting equipment.
Welcome mat
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Bedroom storage
July 2021 Camping 53
THE KNOWLEDGE
SKILLS Top tips and expert advice from the Camping team
CAMPING GURU
In association with
Q& A
Q
We’ve just bought a new polyester family tent. Do we need to treat it or weather it before our first trip to make it waterproof?
A
New polyester tents are ready to go, there’s no need to weather them. That’s something you may want to do to a new polycotton tent (and we will cover this in the next issue). However, polyester tents will be affected by the sun’s UV rays which can break down the fabric in a surprisingly short period of time, especially tents that have a low denier (thickness of fabric). So, to prolong the life of your tent you could treat it to a coating of Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof, which I know from experience will extend the life of the fabric by up to twice as long.
Got a camping problem you need to fix? Camping expert Gary Cross is here to answer your questions
Q A
How do I stop getting cold in my sleeping bag at night?
There are so many fixes for this. It’s easy just to say “get a warmer sleeping bag” which is a start, but let’s talk about the next best option. An airbed is the option that most campers start out with to get you off the ground, but they offer
Q A
Should I always peg out all the tent guylines when pitching, even if the weather’s calm?
Yes, always, especially on family tents. Some tents need the webbing straps and
next to no insulation. A self-inflating mat (the thicker the better) will give you so much more insulation. A camp bed and self-inflating mat is a combination many experienced campers use… this raises you off the ground as well as giving you the insulation from the SIM. If all else fails, a nice woolly hat and a hot water bottle is a traditional fix.
guylines to help form the structure of the tent. I suppose the main reason, though, is because we generally camp in the UK and we all know we can have four seasons in one day on this beautiful island of ours.
Q
The sewn-in groundsheet in my tent has a hole in it. Will I have to put the whole tent in the bin?
A
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got a query?
Visit Gary’s group on Facebook: search for Camping Guru UK
Got a camping question you’d like the guru to answer?
Q
How on earth do I make half-decent toast on a camping stove?
A
There tend to be three methods when cooking on a gas stove. The obvious one is if you have a grill on your cooker, use that. If the stove has no grill then
your only option is to use the cooking burners with a fitment. There are two styles of toaster; one cooks four slices of bread in an upright method. I’m not a fan… this method, I find, dries the bread out. The style I prefer is a piece of kit that lays flat on top of
the gas ring. Yes, you can only toast one slice at time on each ring, but you end up with a perfectly toasted outside and that nice soft inner that us toast fans really love.
Whatever the weather, WE HAVE BRANDS YOU CAN RELY ON SUSTAINABLE CAMPING AT ITS BEST 100% cotton canvas tents
Contact us at editorial@ campingmagazine.co.uk or on social media
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54 Camping July 2021
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Absolutely not, no. Depending on the size of the hole and how nice you want the repair to look, there are a few fixes. If the hole is not much bigger than a 50p piece then a patch of TearAid inside and out will give a semi-permanent fix. You will hardly see the fix, especially if the hole is more of a split. Tear-Aid tape should be in every camper’s kit. If the hole is the size of a cooking pot then a roll of duck/gaffa tape inside and out will do the job. Again, I never camp without a roll of this type of tape.
OFF GRID POWER SOLUTIONS Camping, Caravan, RV
PowerOak - ENERGY STORAGE
AC50s 500Wh Ideal for wild camping power!
RRP £332.50 +VAT (£399) Weight 13.6lbs, 6.2kgs Japanese G-Mark award
SPECIFICATION • 500Wh / 135200mAh capacity • 300 watt maximum output CHARGING • Home - AC 220v, 50Hz, 13amp • Solar - 14-40v, max. 120w • Car - 12v cigar lighter socket • Generator - AC220v, 50 Hz OUTPUT AC 220v, 50Hz, 2 sockets Cigarette port, 12v USB 5v x 3a, 4 sockets Wireless, 10w charging
Harid Solar panels, 50 or 100w Foldable, Monochrystaline Silicon Solar SPECIFICATION • Maximum power 50 or 100w • Operating voltage 18v • Peak current 2.77a • 50w open size:1240 x 350mm • 50w closed: 350 x 350 x 20mm • 50w weight: 1.9kg • 100w open size: 1750 x 470mm • 100w closed: 510 x 470 x 20mm • 100w weight: 3.0kg • Certificates - ROHS & CE
50w BPHD50 RRP £81.67 +VAT (£98) 100w BPHD100 RRP £123.33 +VAT (£148)
Strom 30i 2.1kw INVERTER The perfect camping generator! GENERATOR SPECIFICATION RRP £332.50 +VAT (£399) • 3.0kw starting output • Genuine 2.1kw running output • 15% lower fuel consumption than competitors • 20% larger fuel tank than competitors • Light weight - only 19.8kgs • Ultra quiet - 53db at 7 metres • Perfect sine wave output • Ideal CPAP medical, small fridge, laptop • LCD display showing power, volts & speed • Patented technology of quiet dual fan • Dual exhaust muffler & dual sound shielding • Available black or camouflage finish • Certificates - CS, EMC, EPA • Exclusive to Rally Design in the UK 4kw model, hand or electric start From £470.80 +VAT
Solar Lighting System 4 x 2w LED Lamps, Polychrystaline Solar Set, BLIT04 RRP £45.75 +VAT (£54.90) SPECIFICATION • 8w x 11v solar panel, ally frame • 7.4v x 5200mah lithium battery • 4 x 2w high lumens LED lamps • 4 x 5mtr battery to lamp wires • USB port phone charging • Overcharge protection on battery • Weight - 2.1kgs • Full battery, (1) Light - 21 hours • Full battery, (4) Lights - 5 hours • CE Certification
RALLY DESIGN LIMITED, UNIT 4, ST. AUGUSTINE’S BUSINESS PARK, ESTUARY WAY, SWALECLIFFE, KENT CT5 2QJ TEL. 01227 792792 Fax. 01227 794888 www.rallydesign.co.uk • During Covid-19 the best means of contact is by email - sales@rallydesign.co.uk
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July 2021 Camping 55
THE KNOWLEDGE
GEAR
KITBAG Camping Accessories OUTDOOR REVOLUTION TUB AND HIGH BACK XL
A round-up of the latest camping and outdoor accessories
• £32.99/£24.99 • outdoor-revolution.com Sitting comfortably is almost as important as a good night’s sleep when you are camping and these are two excellent seating options from Outdoor Revolution. Available in a choice of three colours, the Tub Chair is a compact seat with comfortable padded sides and a supportive backrest. The padded fabric and sturdy steel frame are really comfy and provide excellent support, either around the dining table or relaxing outside your tent. The wide base feet help to prevent the chair from sinking into soft ground or damaging your groundsheet. The XL High Back is a more traditional folding camping chair but is generously proportioned, making it extremely comfortable for the more, ahem, “big-boned” camper. The powdercoated steel frame is sturdy but lightweight and it folds down into its own carry bag, making it easy to pack in the car boot, trailer or roof box.
KELTY FOLDING COOLER • £90 • kelty.com The blurb that accompanied this soft-sided cooler advises that the 45L version holds 70 cans of beer* – which sounds a bit like a challenge to us. Of course, packing it to the brim with tinnies means no space for ice, so if you want a cold drink you’ll need to sacrifice a few of those cans. That said, the insulation keeps ice cold for up to 36 hours, so you should be able to get by! When it’s not in use, the coolbox’s semi-rigid sides can be collapsed for easy storage. And for added convenience, there are carry handles and four cup holders on the lid. *For clarification purposes, you don’t have to fill it with cans of beer. Wine will also work. Always drink responsibly.
BO-CAMP INDUSTRIAL ORVILLE
EASY CAMP MOSQUITO LANTERN
• £69.99 • glamoutdoorleisure.co.uk
• £12.49 • easycamp.com
They say that we eat with our eyes. Not literally, of course, because that would involve some pretty weird science. However, what that means is that yummy food has to look yummy, too. There are some clever campsite chefs out there who can knock up a fivecourse tasting menu with a single gas burner and a knife, but there is an easier way to liven up your food and that’s with pretty plates. It’s been all about the bamboo recently, but this Bo-Camp melamine set, available from Glam Outdoor Leisure, gives it a run for its money. There’s 16 pieces – plates, side plates, bowls and cups for four. They come in striking black with a soft-touch matt effect. They are scratch proof, too, but don’t use scourers when dishwashing. Please also note that the cups are not suitable for use with boiling water, but who wants to drink tea out of melamine anyway? And if you want to up the style stakes, then look for the gold Fairbanks stainless-steel cutlery set priced at £29.99 to complement the black plates.
Don’t be misled by its name. This is not a lamp designed to help mosquitos find their way around after dark. Quite the opposite, in fact. Any poor mosquitos stumbling across this lantern on the campsite will find their night brought to a swift and brutal end. This handy gadget is a lantern and mosquito zapper in one – hang it up around the tent to prevent the bloodsucking pests from spoiling your warm summer evenings under the stars.
56 Camping July 2021
outandaboutlive.co.uk/camping
OUTWELL PARDELAS L • £100 • outwell.com A good night’s sleep is so important when camping, which is why a quality bed is one of the most important pieces of kit you can invest in. Air beds and mats are probably the most popular options, but if you prefer to sleep off the ground, then you should be looking at a camp bed. The Pardelas L is a comfortable, padded bed with a sturdy steel frame and wider and extra-long body. It also features a detachable cushion with soft mesh, ventilation to keep you cool. The bed opens and folds in seconds and a hook and loop strap keeps the frame closed when folded.
BLACKLINE POWEROAK AC50S PLUS SOLAR LIGHTING SYSTEM • £399/£57.30 • rallydesign.co.uk Electric hook-up for tents is fairly commonplace on campsites these days, but there are still some that don’t offer it on every pitch – and some ‘back-tobasics’ sites make a virtue out of being completely off-grid. But what if you find a mains-free site you love but you don’t fancy giving up on your electric-powered essentials, like lighting, coolboxes or phone chargers? Generating your own power is the answer, and this completely silent and clean power station, available from Rally Design, should give you what
you need to stay connected. Think of it like a mini power bank on steroids. You can charge it up at home on the mains, through the 12V socket in your car or via a solar panel. It will then supply enough power to run devices like LED lamps, coolboxes, fans, phones, and even small TVs. Unlike a traditional generator, there is no petrol required so it’s safe to use in a tent. It’s also a handy size to fit in the car. Team it up with a solar lighting kit, also from Rally Design, which includes four LED lamps and a solar panel.
ROBENS SUNSTONE 80
CRESPO AP-237 TEX SUPREME
• £149.99 • robens.de
• £179 • glamoutdoorleisure.co.uk
The Sunstone is a high-spec, self-inflating mat; but, despite Robens’ technical expertise, this is not a bed designed for backpackers looking for ultra-lightweight kit. Comfort is more important than pack size and weight here and at 8cm thick it certainly delivers on that. Saying that, the innovative manufacturing technique used by Robens does make the mat lighter than you’d expect. The grid coring also speeds up inflation/deflation, enhances comfort and eliminates cold spots. It also comes with a carry bag.
Crespo camping furniture originates in Spain, and you can certainly imagine yourself enjoying a campsite siesta in one of these luxurious outdoor chairs. The AP-237 has a seven-position adjustable backrest and that, along with the padded Tex Supreme fabric, makes it super-comfortable. The backrest, seat and armrests are also ergonomically designed to maximise comfort. The fabric is maintenance-friendly; resistant to losing colour from the sun and waterrepellent. The H-frame provides extra stability and strength but the aluminium means it’s light to carry when folded up. Available in the UK from Glam Outdoor Leisure, the chair comes with a six-year parts warranty.
outandaboutlive.co.uk/camping
July 2021 Camping 57
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THE KNOWLEDGE
GEAR
REVIEWS Glamping/luxury Glamping/Luxurytents tents
The Camping team’s verdict on the latest models
Snow Peak Spearhead Pro.L
PRICE £1,806 WEBSITE snowpeak.co.uk KEY FEATURES ղ ղ ղ ղ ղ
Tipi-style design Teflon water-repellent finish Circular interior High and low-level ventilation Optional inner bedroom available
WHO’S IT FOR? Festival-going families or groups of friends looking for a touch of glamour coupled with a good-quality tent
WHAT’S GOOD? Stylish appearance; quality manufacturing and materials; relatively lightweight
Plenty of space for furniture
SPECIFICATIONS Berths 8 max Packed weight 16kg Packed size 87 x 33 x 38cm Pitching time 15 mins Style Tipi Materials Outer Polyester Poles Alloy Waterproof (hydrostatic head) 1,800mm Height 280cm Width 680cm Length 600cm
The front porch
LAYOUT GUIDE
ALL DIMENSIONS IN CM | NOT TO SCALE
600
Snow Peak is an outdoor brand that comes with five decades of Japanese heritage. It hasn’t been in this country for long and we didn’t actually discover it until last year, but we’re certainly glad we did. From its flagship store in London, Snow Peak supplies a large range of camping gear and outdoor clothing that embodies stylish Japanese design combined with practical functionality. The Snow Peak tent range covers all the bases, from family camping and adventure travel to luxury glamping. And the latter is where the Spearhead Pro.L fits in. What we like about this tent is the combination of style and high-end spec. The Spearhead is a stunning looking single-pole tent, designed for families and groups. From the outside it has the appearance of a tipi, with the central pole forming that traditional, tall shape that we all recognise. That single pole makes it really easy to pitch. However, at ground level the curved ‘eyebrow’ poles above the vents and door create more of a bell tent-style profile and increase the usable space inside. The light-coloured fabric sparkles in the sunshine and provides a light, airy interior, while still offering UV protection. And if the weather turns foul, the Spearhead shouldn’t be found wanting, with its Teflon, waterrepellent finish providing protection from rain. Inside the tent, the circular inner floor plan allows for a spacious camping experience, providing space for up to eight adults. The panels in the central peak provide great ventilation. For a communal camping experience you can dock the tent with other Spearheads and although there are no defined bedrooms, you can buy an optional inner that lets you keep the sleeping and living area separate.
׀KEY INFORMATION
OUR VERDICT The Spearhead provides a truly stylish camping experience, but with a technical spec that makes it just as suitable for the campsite as the festival. 680
58 Camping July 2021
Good ventilation in the peak
The central ventilation panel
outandaboutlive.co.uk/camping
Glamping/Luxury Glamping/luxury tents REVIEWS
Karsten Opera Blueline When it comes to luxury camping, you’d be hardpushed to top premium Dutch brand Karsten’s opulent range. We’ve described Karsten as the Rolls-Royce of tents in the past… but with the company’s latest offering, perhaps Tesla would be a better comparison. The Opera Blueline is exactly Inside the Opera Blueline the sort of top-of-the-tree luxury that you’d expect; a stunning poled tent that screams quality. As you would expect from a Karsten, the material, fittings and overall style of the tent are exquisite and if looked after, it should last a lifetime. But where it differs from previous Karsten tents is in the manufacturing process. This is luxury with green credentials – or more accurately, blue. The unique blue colour of these tents is due to the brand-new TenCate BlueCAMP cotton. This is a mix of high-quality cotton and recycled jeans. The old denim is collected, unravelled, spun into new yarn and processed into canvas for the Blueline series. The design of the Blueline tent is based on the Karsten Opera. It’s a spacious tunnel tent, absolutely rock solid and easily pitched in 15 minutes, with plenty of room for two, or even three. It boasts big windows on either side, excellent ventilation, a spacious awning, a fold-out ground sheet and an extensive range of storage options.
Robens Prospector Shack With the Outback range of tents and gear, Robens has tapped into something a bit different. It’s more Ray Mears than Cath Kidston – aimed at campers who want a back-tobasics approach but without having to rough it too much. It’s not exactly glamorous, The Prospector Shack’s chimney port in fact the sort of people who would buy this tent would probably be indignant at the thought of being described as glampers. But equally it’s something that goes beyond simple camping. The inspiration for the whole range is the sepia-tinged images of early American pioneers gathering round the campfire. But the important thing is that it’s not enough for the tent to just look great, it has to work just as well. The Prospector Shack has a sturdy steel A-frame with ridge pole supporting a rugged, technical polycotton flysheet so you can be confident it will be stable and waterproof, whatever the weather. Inside, it’s spacious and airy, with that ‘new tent’ smell that will evoke memories of camping trips in a bygone era. You should consider a Robens stove – the Prospector is fitted with a chimney port and a zip flap at the rear of the sewn-in groundsheet.
׀KEY INFORMATION SPECIFICATIONS
Recycled materials ղ Large windows let in good light and ventilation ղ Zipped-in mosquito netting and bedroom dividers ղ Large windows ղ Aluminium poles are zipped into outer sleeve
Berths 2/3 Packed weight 30.8kg Packed size N/A Pitching time 15 mins Style Tunnel Materials Outer Cotton/recycled denim Poles Aluminium Waterproof (hydrostatic head) N/A Height 190cm Width 240cm Length 570cm
WHO’S IT FOR?
LAYOUT GUIDE
ղ
Couples looking for a ‘forever tent’ with strong eco-friendly credentials
WHAT’S GOOD? High-quality, environmentally friendly materials; easy pitching; lots of features; comes with a five-year guarantee
ALL DIMENSIONS IN CM | NOT TO SCALE
ղ ղ ղ ղ ղ
Cabin-shaped construction Polycotton fabric Reflective guylines Sewn-in groundsheet Stove pipe port
WHO’S IT FOR? Groups of friends or family who want to head to the country for traditional back-to-basics weekends – and stand out from the crowd
SPECIFICATIONS Berths 6 Packed weight 24.6kg Packed size 84 x 34cm Pitching time 20 mins Style Cabin Materials Outer Polycotton Poles Steel Waterproof (hydrostatic head) N/A Height 230cm Width 325cm Length 240cm
LAYOUT GUIDE ALL DIMENSIONS IN CM | NOT TO SCALE
WHAT’S GOOD? Retro camping appearance; breathable technical polycotton fabric; spacious interior; optional inner bedrooms are available to buy separately
240
campingtravelstore.co.uk
KEY FEATURES
PRICE £850 WEBSITE robens.de KEY FEATURES
220 410
240
PRICE £2,350 WEBSITE
׀KEY INFORMATION
325
OUR VERDICT
OUR VERDICT
Karsten tents are among the most luxurious you’ll ever find and the recycled materials used in this stunning model make the Blueline one of the most environmentally friendly.
This is glamping for campers who are more interested in escaping to the wilderness than throws and bunting. The Prospector Shack summons up the old pioneer spirit with a modern-day twist.
outandaboutlive.co.uk/camping
July 2021 Camping 59
THE KNOWLEDGE
GEAR
REVIEWS Glamping/luxury tents
The Camping team’s verdict on the latest models
Easy Camp Moonlight Tipi
Outwell Mountain Lake 5ATC
Camping and festivals are returning this summer and the Easy Camp Moonlight Tipi is designed for outdoor parties. The tent has the classic tipi shape, with a single, central pole supporting the polyester flysheet. Pitching is quick and easy; simply lay the tent out flat, push the central pole into Mesh storage pockets the apex, raise it until it’s fully upright, then peg out the flysheet and guylines. The large entrance has double-slider zippers on the door for flexible opening and a full mesh door behind. One of the big advantages of the Moonlight Tipi is the amount of ventilation around the tent. As well as the mesh-backed door, there’s a covered roof vent under the apex hood and three low vents at ground level. The combination of high and low ventilation creates good airflow. There’s plenty of space inside, with the potential to sleep up to eight people, although perhaps four or five would be more realistic. It also comes with six large storage pockets, a hanging point on the centre pole and a set of bunting flags to attach to the outside and add some glamping colour and style.
Coming in at just a penny short of £2,000, there’s no getting away from the fact that this is an expensive tent. In fact, you won’t find too many mainstream family tents with a bigger price tag. But if it’s luxury camping you’re after then look no further. Quick & Quiet bedroom doors The Mountain Lake 5ATC is ainvestment in future memories. To buy a tent like this, you really need to be serious about camping. It’s also the sort of tent you’ll want to fit out with furniture and accessories to create a home from home under the stars. What makes it so special? Well, for starters, it looks, feels and even smells great thanks to the polycotton fabric. The Gothicshaped air poles are pleasing on the eye, but also create increased headroom and more usable floor space. Access from the porch into the living area is through silent Quick & Quiet Access doors, which use magnets instead of zips. On the side of the tent, the Wing Lounge offers an extra space for relaxing – the perfect place to set up a comfortable sofa. Large tinted windows let you sit and watch campsite life unfold, with zip-up curtains providing privacy.
׀KEY INFORMATION
LAYOUT GUIDE ALL DIMENSIONS IN CM | NOT TO SCALE
WHO’S IT FOR? Ideal for festival-going friends and family
ղ ղ ղ
Wing lounge area Polycotton flysheet Quick & Quiet doors HookTrack hanging system Larger darkened bedrooms
WHO’S IT FOR? Serious campers looking for topof-the-range luxury for their big summer holidays
LAYOUT GUIDE ALL DIMENSIONS IN CM | NOT TO SCALE
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Glamping tents don’t have to be hugely expensive – the Moonlight is a great-value, fun shelter, that is perfect for the return of festival camping or weekends with friends at the campsite .
Berths 5 Packed weight 48.3kg Packed size 80 x 60 x 60cm
730
350 230 140
375
SPECIFICATIONS
OUR VERDICT
60 Camping July 2021
ղ
Quality materials with luxury look and feel; flexible living and sleeping options; loads of special features throughout
SPECIFICATIONS Berths 8 Packed weight 6.8kg
ղ
Pitching time 20 mins Style Tunnel Materials Outer Polycotton Poles Air Waterproof (hydrostatic head) N/A Height 220cm Width 350cm (+140cm side lounge) Length 730cm
WHAT’S GOOD?
WHAT’S GOOD? Quick and easy to pitch; light to carry; plenty of ventilation; great value
PRICE £1,999.99 WEBSITE outwell.com KEY FEATURES
180
Single centre pole for easy and fast pitching ղ High and low-level ventilation ղ Six large storage pockets ղ Hanging point on centre pole ղ Fold-down groundsheet at the front door ղ
Packed size 71 x 18cm Pitching time 15 mins Style Tipi Materials Outer Polyester Poles Steel Waterproof (hydrostatic head) 3,000mm Height 270cm Width 385cm Length 375cm
140
PRICE £166 WEBSITE easycamp.com KEY FEATURES
׀KEY INFORMATION
240
OUR VERDICT This lavish family tent boasts exquisite good looks, top-of-the-range materials and a great array of features.
outandaboutlive.co.uk/camping
CAMPSITE COOKERY
THE KNOWLEDGE
SKILLS
In association with
Top tips and expert advice from the Camping team
SPICY RUBBED SALMON FILLETS WITH POTATO SALAD Fresh salmon is pretty hard to beat, and a simple Cajun-inspired rub makes it fine camping fare. Serve up with a homemade potato salad and some fresh asparagus Ingredients
Method
(serves four)
Start by putting together the mix for your rub. You can do this at home in advance and take it with you in a sealed container. To create the rub, add all the ingredients together in a bowl and mix thoroughly. If you like an added kick, add chilli powder to the mix.
4 salmon fillets 1 kg new potatoes 1 bunch asparagus 3 tbs mayonnaise 1 bunch chives chopped FOR RUB 1 tsp salt 1 tsp white pepper Half tsp ground coriander Half tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp hot paprika Half tsp garlic granules Half tsp dried thyme Half tsp chilli powder (optional)
enough – if not turn the heat up a little.
A couple of hours before eating time, boil the potatoes, cover and leave to completely cool down. Liberally sprinkle the spice mix over the salmon and rub in. The flavour will be enhanced if you leave to sit for around 20 minutes, but it's not essential. Heat oil in a frying pan big enough for four fillets. When the oil is hot, place the four fillets skin side down in the pan. It should sizzle if the oil is hot
Leave the salmon to cook, pour a drizzle of oil in another pan and put on a medium heat on the second hob. Snap the woody ends off the asparagus and place the spears in the hot pan, adding salt and pepper to taste. They should be done in 15–20 minutes. While the salmon and asparagus are cooking, put the potatoes, mayonnaise and chives in a bowl, season generously and mix together until the mayo is evenly distributed and the potatoes are well coated. Check on the salmon, and when the flesh is opaque about two thirds of the way through, flip the fillets over, turn off the heat and leave to cook through for another two or three minutes. Serve up and enjoy.
Cook it on... Outdoor Revolution Twin Burner Gas Stove & Grill The Twin Burner Gas Stove and Grill lets you up your campsite cooking game considerably, offering the perfect blend of high performance, compact size and style. What makes it unique is the way it operates. Unusually for a double burner and grill, it runs off a 450g screw-fitting butane/propane canister – which Outdoor Revolution also supplies – rather than a heavy, refillable gas cylinder, cutting down on space and weight during transportation. You only pay for the gas you need to use when you are away whether, it be for a weekend or an extended trip.
Expect to pay £99.99
outandaboutlive.co.uk/camping
outdoor-revolution.com July 2021 Camping 61
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Cwmdu Campsite Powys Liz Morrell digs deep with a world-renowned cave diver who also owns his own campsite
O
ne of record-breaking exploratory cave diver and campsite owner Martyn Farr’s earliest memories of helping on his parents’ campsite was digging trenches to install water pipes, as well as helping his father shift concrete blocks. “Today you would have a mechanical digger to install facilities but everything we did back then was done by hand,” he laughs. His parents, Olive and Eric Farr, had established Cwmdu campsite, near Crickhowell in the middle of the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales, in 1964 after looking to diversify beyond chicken farming. “They’d always aspired to run a small sustainable business but while they had been raising chickens and poultry it was clear that the writing was on the wall at that time because of the beginning of battery farming,” says Martyn. His parents bought a field in front of the family home and began, as Martyn puts it, to “quietly transform it into a campsite.” The couple were ahead of the curve, with Cwmdu one of the first campsites in the area. When Eric died in 1981, Olive continued to run the site for another 20 years or so until her own ill health meant that Martyn stepped in. “I’ve always been really into outdoor activities so went to university, into teaching, then worked as an outdoor education instructor and would pop along to help if I was required,” he says.
When Olive died in 2011, he joined the site full-time, and with the camping trend beginning to grow, began the task of updating the site and its facilities. One of the first steps was the installation of electricity – a daunting prospect that took a whopping £18,000 at the time simply to get electricity to the gates of the site. This was followed by another £12,000 spend to lay it around the site. “So, I’d spent £30,000 in the first season. There was very little to see for the investment, but it got the ball rolling and set the foundation for real progress.” Development goals are set each season. Terracing and further manicuring of the site was complemented with a new, state-of-the-art ladies toilet block a few years ago which, having led to envy among the men, will be joined shortly by a new male block too. There is also an on-site shop, glamping pods and WiFi throughout the site. For the past three years or so, Martyn’s daughter, Sarah, who had initially also gone into teaching, has become more involved in the site and is now spearheading the rolling programme of future development for Cwmdu. “She is really making progress, so I’ve stepped back,” says Martyn. “I’m there to try and lend a guiding hand and some advice but she’s the real mover and shaker. You cannot stand still in this age. The world has changed completely. Camping is changing rapidly as well so we’ve got all manner of
progressive plans now.” With Sarah taking over leadership, this leaves Martyn to concentrate once again on his caving, as well as his latest book on the subject. He already has eight caving titles to his name, including what many define as the definitive title on the history of cave diving worldwide. “I’ve always lived around the area as it has the best caves in the British Isles and the exploration of them – being the first person to find anything and then document it that’s been my lifelong passion,” he says. That said, he stresses that the campsite will always remain close to his heart and he’s on hand for his daughter at any point. For Martyn it’s the joy of sharing the delights of the area with others that he has always adored. “It’s just fantastic seeing visitors coming from urban areas to a site like ours. The peace and tranquillity of the national park is part of our ethos - that’s what we are about. People can walk out of the site in any direction and have a beautiful, peaceful day out.”
y INFORMATION CWMDU CAMPSITE Crickhowell Powys NP8 1RU campingbreconbeacons.com
"The peace and tranquillity of the national park is part of our ethos" outandaboutlive.co.uk/camping
July 2021 Camping 63
Where are we cooking today? Versatile outdoor cooking Introducing the new range of light and portable Campingaz® double burner stoves, powered by CV470 Plus cartridges. • Easy Clic® Plus regulator included, delivering consistent power, even as the cartridge empties • Removable enamelled steel pan supports • Slimline steel body with recessed side grips • 3 models available
NEW
NEW
Camping Cook CV
Camping Kitchen 2 CV
Camping Kitchen 2 CV PZ
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