Welcome to the autumn edition of the Cover4Caravans newsletter
Welcome to the Autumn edition of the Cover4Caravans newsletter.
We have got some great destination inspiration for you as well as tips on winterising your static home. Plus, an important reminder about keeping us up to date if anything changes with your ‘van. Words and images courtesyofVisitBritain.com.
Here are some snippets of what is in store this time …
Get Away and explore … the King Charles III England Coast Path
Wrap up warm, put on those hiking boots and beat those Autumn blues by exploring The King Charles III England Coast Path! This is a new walking route that will follow the entire coast of England. It will go all the way around the coast of England and will be around 2,800 miles long - making it the longest coastal walking path in the world when completed.
Visitors are welcome to walk the 36 sections that are open to the publichere we share some of the highlights enroute …
Did you know… how important it is to keep us up to date?
Once you have renewed your caravan insurance, you may not give it another thought until the renewal time comes round again. And while you are quite right in feeling very confident that your caravan has all round protection with one of our policies, there may be times when you need to get in touch with us to ensure your cover remains appropriate.
Here we share some examples of when you need to give us a call …
Chasing the sun in Autumn: great getaway ideas
Autumn is upon us, and Winter isn’t far ahead. So, if you are craving some sunshine, the good news is that there are still some lovely, warm, destinations on continental Europe where you can catch some rays.
Europe offers a plethora of picturesque and climate-friendly spots perfect for autumn caravanning. We appreciate that some of these destinations are quite a drive away, so recommend you make overnight stop-offs enroute to further add to your adventures!
We hope you enjoy this newsletter.
Sam
Samuel Fisk, Cert CII Cover4 Manager
Email: samuelf@cover4.co.uk
Get away and explore...
The King Charles III England Coast Path
Wrap up warm, put on those hiking boots and beat those Autumn blues by exploring The King Charles III England Coast Path! This is a new walking route that will follow the entire coast of England. It will go all the way around the coast of England and will be around 2,800 miles long - making it the longest coastal walking path in the world when completed.
Visitors are welcome to walk the 36 sections that are open to the public - here we share some of the highlights enroute.
Words and images courtesyofVisitBritain.com
King Charles III England Coast Path –
North East
Sections open to the public:
Skegness to Mablethorpe
Bridlington to Filey Brigg
Filey Brigg to Newport Bridge
Newport Bridge to North Gare
North Gare to South Bents
South Bents to Amble
Amble to Bamburgh
Bamburgh to the Scottish Border
Key highlights:
Robin Hood’s Bay, situated on the Heritage Coast of the North York Moors, is a captivating historic fishing village offering something for everyone. Its sandy beach, ideal for families and pets, boasts rock pools filled with marine life and ancient fossils waiting to be discovered. Walking through its narrow, winding streets, one can easily imagine the bustling maritime life of centuries past. Today, the village buzzes with life, offering a number of charming cafes, pubs, restaurants, and quaint shops, as well as picturesque coastal and countryside walks, cycle paths, and bridleways right at your doorstep.
Saltburn-by-the-Sea, a delightful coastal town, is a haven for enthusiasts of old-world charm and seaside adventures. Home to the iconic water-balanced cliff lifts and the last remaining pier in Yorkshire, Saltburn promises visitors an authentic seaside experience.
The Cliff Lift, a marvel of engineering, operates as the oldest of its kind still in use. Gravity-powered cars traverse parallel tracks, with water tanks beneath, providing a thrilling journey down the 71% incline. Controlled by a brake man from a quaint cabin at the top, the lift offers a unique glimpse into the town’s rich maritime history.
Filey Brigg, a prominent headland extending into Filey Bay, offers a haven for both geologists and birdwatchers alike. Its rocky terrain, capped with glacial clays, showcases fossil-rich limestone and grits, while providing a habitat for a diverse array of seabirds and waders. The sculpted stone marker at the Brigg’s tip signifies the terminus of two National Trails, the Cleveland Way and the Yorkshire Wolds Way, and features intricate carvings depicting the routes’ landmarks, including the iconic National Trail acorn symbol.
King Charles III England Coast PathNorth West
Sections open to the public:
Gretna to Kirkandrews-on-Eden
Brownrigg to Allonby
Allonby to Whitehaven
Whitehaven to Silecroft
Silecroft to Green Road
Walney Island
Tarleton Lock near Preston to Pier Head Ferry Terminal, Liverpool
Key Highlights:
The Rum Story, known as “The Dark Spirit of Whitehaven,” is housed within the original shop, courtyards, cellars, and bonded warehouses of the Jefferson family business, situated in the Georgian town of Whitehaven. This award-winning visitor
attraction offers insight into the UK rum heritage, which historically revolved around the port of Whitehaven. Visitors can explore the museum and its exhibits, learning about the town’s involvement in the slave trade and its connection to the production of cane sugar and Jefferson Rum. The experience culminates with a tasting of the renowned rum, providing a flavourful conclusion to the journey through history.
St Bees Head Nature Reserve offers invigorating clifftop walks with breathtaking views across to the Isle of Man and Scotland on clear days. During spring and summer, visitors can view the region›s largest seabird colony from the RSPB›s three viewpoints. Guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars, and razorbills soar overhead, accompanied by sightings of ravens and peregrines along the cliffs. Offshore, lucky observers may even catch a glimpse of dolphins and porpoises, adding to the reserve›s natural splendour.
Whitehaven Harbour’s development dates back to the beginning of the Irish coal trade. Constructed in 1634 by Sir Christopher Lowther, the stone jetty known as the Old Quay remains one of Britain’s oldest remaining coal wharves. Over the centuries, the harbour expanded, with additions such as the Sugar Tongue Quay, later the Fish Quay, and the Lime Tongue, which facilitated the export of lime in the 19th century. Notable structures include the North Pier and West Pier, designed by renowned civil engineer John Rennie.
Get away and explore...
King Charles III England Coast PathSouth East
Sections open to the public:
Calshot to Gosport
Gosport to Portsmouth
East Head to Shoreham
Shoreham-by-Sea to Eastbourne
Camber to Folkestone
Folkestone to Ramsgate
Ramsgate to Whitstable
Whitstable to Iwade
Stoke Marshes to Otterham Creek (Medway, Kent)
Grain to Woolwich
Key highlights:
The iconic White Cliffs of Dover stand as a testament to the natural beauty of Britain. Offering spectacular views of the English Channel and the French coast, these cliffs have rightfully earned their status as one of the country›s most breath-taking landmarks. Visitors can appreciate their splendour year-round by embarking on dramatic cliff-top walks that showcase their unique appeal through every season.
Samphire Hoe is a remarkable addition to England›s landscape, created from 4.9 million cubic meters of chalk marl excavated during the
construction of the Channel Tunnel. Owned by Eurotunnel and managed in collaboration with the White Cliffs Countryside Partnership, Samphire Hoe provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.
Folkestone Harbour Arm stands as a vibrant hub of activity and a catalyst for regeneration in Folkestone. Originally serving as the railway terminal for the Folkestone to Boulogne ferry and a departure point for soldiers during World War I, the restored arm now overlooks the town›s fishing harbour. Featuring a picturesque promenade offering panoramic views of the English Channel, the harbour arm is home to a diverse array of independent food and drink businesses, including a bakery, brewery, coffee shop, tapas bar, and champagne lounge. Seasonal events, including an artisan market, drive-in cinema, Christmas market, and live music performances make it a must-visit destination for tourists.
King Charles III England Coast PathSouth West
Sections open to the public:
Old Passage, Aust to Wain’s Hill, Clevedon
Sand Bay to Brean Down
Brean Down to Minehead
Rufus Castle on Portland to Lulworth Cove
Key highlights:
The Minack Theatre, perched at the top the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is a renowned open-air venue in Cornwall. Its history dates back from Rowena Cade’s times, who, residing in Minack House wanted to establish a space for local drama enthusiasts to stage Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Visitors can now watch a range of performances at the Minack from Shakespearean plays to musicals, operas from all over the world to experience the
theatre in this breath-taking natural setting.
The Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing the Dorset and East Devon coastline, stands as England’s first natural World Heritage Site. Stretching 95 miles, this stunning coastline bears witness to 185 million years of Earth’s history, with its rocks preserving a captivating narrative of geological evolution. Carved by millennia of ice ages and fluctuations in sea level, the coast boasts a spectacular landscape. The Coast offers a variety of activities from boat trips, alpaca walking to coasteering and a walking challenge exploring the West Dorset Three Peaks.
Exmoor National Park, home to the Coast Path tracing its entire coastline, offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes. From towering cliffs to woodlands and expansive moorlands, the park provides plenty of opportunities for scenic walks. Visitors to Exmoor can experience moments of peace amidst the rugged beauty, encountering wild red deer, marvelling at the star-filled night skies, and exploring charming villages steeped in character.
King Charles III England Coast Path –East
Sections open to the public:
Tilbury to Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea to Wallasea Island
Burnham-on-Crouch to Maldon
Maldon to Salcott
Hopton-on-Sea to Sea Palling
Sea Palling to Weybourne
Hunstanton to Sutton Bridge
Key highlights:
Hunstanton Cliffs, known for its famous red and white striped cliffs, are a captivating sight in Hunstanton. These colourful layers result from varying rock compositions, creating an ideal
setting for fossil hunting, exploring rock pools, and admiring historic cliff-top buildings. Visitors can experience a variety of activities suitable for all ages. From family-friendly attractions like Crazy Golf and Pitch-and-Putt to the serene Esplanade Gardens, there’s something to delight every traveller. The town’s lush gardens bloom especially beautifully in the spring and summer months, with a self-guided Horticultural Trail allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the floral splendour. The Mo, also known as the Sheringham Museum, is located along the scenic North Norfolk coast, boasting a rich history spanning over a millennium. Visitors can explore stunning galleries housing a remarkable collection of photographs, social history artifacts, and a fleet of historic lifeboats and fishing boats. With over 20 public events annually, including major exhibitions and cultural initiatives, The Mo offers a diverse range of activities, from family fun during to engaging local history talks and craft demonstrations.
You can find out more about each of these sections on the VisitBritain.com Route Description page and view the map of King Charles III England Coast Path National Trail Stretch Progress.
Meet The Team
Now you can put a face to the name! Also, we would like to welcome Kacey Banks and Catherine Wright back to Cover4 after both being on extended leave. We are so glad to see the return of two excellent team members.
Sam Fisk Cover4Manager
Catherine Wright New Business
Karen Hierons Renewals
Tom McIntosh New Business
Emily Waters New Business
Mark Searcy Director
Kacey Banks New Business
Olivia Garcia New Business
Did you know...
how important it is to keep us up to date?
Once you have renewed your caravan insurance, you may not give it another thought until the renewal time comes round again. And while you are quite right in feeling very confident that your caravan has all round protection with one of our policies, there may be times when you need to get in touch with us to ensure your cover remains appropriate.
Here are some examples of when you need to give us a call … if you:
change where your caravan is stored or change your home address. This could affect the premiums you pay based on the new location – to find out why, see our Caravan Storage and Insurance video.
make changes to the value of your ‘van. For example, if you refurbish it, meaning you may need to increase the amounts of insurance you have.
are pitched up on holiday somewhere and decide to head off to a hotel for a couple of nights, leaving your touring caravan set up at its pitch. This is because your insurance premiums are calculated on the caravan being stored at a storage site / at home or being lived in while pitched up.
As touring caravan sites are less secure and more easily accessed, your caravan, particularly if left unattended, is at more risk of being stolen, damaged, or broken in to.
sell your caravan during the year. Many caravanners forget to cancel their caravan insurance when they sell their ‘van, waiting until renewal to notify their insurance company.
Even though your premium might be low, most insurers offer a pro-rata refund so it is worth telling them.
Here at Cover4Caravans, we always allow a pro-rata refund (unless you have had a claim) and apply just a £10.00 admin fee to a cancellation. It’s just a shame people miss out on these refunds, so please don’t forget to notify us as soon as you sell your caravan.
Let us know!
It really is important that you notify us of any changes to your circumstances or to your ‘van – this could not only affect how much your policy costs but the amount of cover you have.
Letting us know of any changes - or checking your existing cover - is easy, simply contact us on 01702 606301 and your dedicated Account Handler will help. It would be useful, if you contact us, that you have your policy number or broker reference handy.
Where’s Relle the Rabbit in the picture above
What our customers are saying!
At Cover4Caravans, our aim is not only to find you the most suitable and costeffective cover for your ‘van, but to provide a first-class service. Following is some genuine feedback via Feefo from some of our customers.
As always, we are thrilled to receive such continued positive feedback!
The weather in the UK has certainly been temperamental this year, and this autumn season is no exception. What is your favourite season and why?
Sarah
My favourite season of the year is summer. I enjoy having barbecues and drinks in the garden with friends and family.
Sam
My favourite season is autumn. The colours are amazing! It is chilly but not too cold and there is normally a lot of sun still which I think is a great combination.
Kacey
I like summer and winter; I find it hard to choose between them! I like summer because of the warm weather, I love being outside. I love winter because it is cold and cosy, and there are all the events of the season such as: Bonfire Night, Christmas, and the New Year.
Thomas
Olivia
My favourite season is spring as you start to get excited about summer being around the corner. The weather begins to get warmer, but it is not unbearably hot yet!
Catherine:
My favourite season is spring as you start to get excited about summer being around the corner. The weather begins to get warmer, but it is not unbearably hot yet!
Tamzin
My favourite season is summer. In my opinion, any time the temperature in England is above 12 degrees it calls for a BBQ!
Karen
My favourite season is winter. I love to stay in at night with the lamps turned on, a blanket over me, holding a hot chocolate with cream on top ready to watch a good chick flick.
My favourite season is spring as you start to get excited about summer being around the corner. The weather begins to get warmer, but it is not unbearably hot yet!
Emily
My favourite season is spring because I love seeing the sun, the flowers and the bees finally come back out after months of cold and grey. As soon as it starts to get warmer, I love to go out for walks through the forest behind my house and picnics in the park. I wish the weather could be like that all year round
Chasing the sun in Autumn: great
Autumn is upon us, and Winter isn’t far ahead. So, if you are craving some sunshine, the good news is that there are still some lovely, warm, destinations on continental Europe where you can catch some rays. Europe offers a plethora of picturesque and climate-friendly spots perfect for autumn caravanning. We appreciate that some of these destinations are quite a drive away, so recommend you make overnight stop offs enroute to further add to your adventure!
Here are some of the best places to consider …
1. Andalusia, Spain
Andalusia in southern Spain is known for its warm climate, even in autumn.
Temperatures in cities like Seville, Granada, and Málaga often remain around 20-25°C (68-77°F), making it an ideal destination for caravanning.
Seville, the region’s capital, is famous for its stunning architecture, including the Alcázar and the Seville Cathedral.
Granada offers the breath taking Alhambra Palace, while Málaga boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Camping Cabopino near Marbella is a well-equipped site close to the beach. Alhambra in Granada offers a stunning day trip to explore Moorish architecture.
2. The Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve in Portugal is another prime destination for warm autumn caravanning. With temperatures often lingering around 23°C (73°F), the region is ideal for beach activities, golfing, and exploring charming towns like Lagos, Faro, and Albufeira. The Algarve is also known for its stunning cliffs, golden beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Camping Turiscampo near Lagos provides excellent facilities and easy access to local attractions.
Ponta da Piedade is a must-visit for its dramatic cliffs and scenic views.
3. Provence, France
Provence in south eastern France is known for its warm autumn weather, stunning landscapes, and charming villages. Temperatures often stay around 20°C (68°F). The region is famous for its lavender fields, vineyards, and historic towns such as Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Arles.
Camping Domaine de la Garenne near Avignon offers great facilities and proximity to historic sites.
Palais des Papes in Avignon is a historic Gothic palace worth exploring.
Chasing the sun in Autumn: great
4. Sicily, Italy
Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, offers warm autumn temperatures averaging around 22°C (72°F). This Italian island is renowned for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes. Visit the ancient ruins of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the vibrant city of Palermo, or the picturesque town of Taormina.
Camping Valle dei Templi is located near Agrigento’s famous archaeological site.
Taormina offers beautiful views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.
5. The French Riviera, France
The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, remains warm during autumn with temperatures around 20°C (68°F). This glamorous region is known for its stunning coastline, luxurious resorts, and charming towns like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
Camping La Vieille Ferme near Antibes provides a comfortable stay close to major attractions.
The famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice offers beautiful seaside walks.
6. Costa del Azahar, Spain
Costa del Azahar, located in the Valencia region of Spain, boasts warm autumn temperatures, often around 20-24°C (6875°F). Known as the “Orange Blossom Coast,” this area offers beautiful beaches, historic towns, and vibrant cities like Valencia and Castellón de la Plana.
Camping Torre La Sal 2 near Oropesa del Mar offers a family-friendly atmosphere with modern facilities. City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a futuristic complex worth visiting.
Exploring these destinations in your caravan allows you to enjoy the beauty of Europe while basking in warm autumn weather. Each of these spots offers unique experiences, from historical sites and cultural landmarks to stunning natural scenery and vibrant local life.
Happy caravanning!
Tips for winterising your static home
Closing down your static home for the winter is a crucial task to prevent damage from cold weather and ensure everything is in top condition when you return.
Whether you’re a seasoned owner or new to the process, taking the time to winterise your static home properly can save you from costly repairs and give you peace of mind.
Here, we’ve gathered some practical reminders to help you prepare your static home for the cold months ahead. Please also check your policy documentation to see what your obligations are when overwintering your static home – or please feel free to contact us!
Preparing the interior
First things first, it’s essential to clean and declutter your static home. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about preventing pests and making the reopening process much easier.
Start by thoroughly cleaning every surface, the fridge and cupboards, ensuring that there are no food remnants that could attract rodents or insects.
Inspecting and repairing any damages should be next on your list. Look for any signs of wear and tear, particularly around windows, doors, and plumbing. Fixing these issues now will prevent them from worsening over the winter months.
Managing utilities
One of the most critical steps in winterising your static home is managing the utilities.
Turn off your water supply from the drain down valve (stopcock) and run all taps to ensure that the pipes and tanks are completely empty. Remove the shower head and hose to ensure they don’t have any water left in them which could freeze. Put plugs in the sinks and close the toilet lid to stop any opportunistic wildlife from entering.
Check your handbook to see how to drain down your water heater.
Next, turn off the electricity at the main circuit breaker to avoid any electrical hazards. If your static home uses gas, make sure to turn off the gas supply and disconnect any appliances that use it. This reduces the risk of gas leaks and ensures safety.
Protecting against damp and mould
Damp and mould can cause significant damage to your static home if not managed correctly. Using dehumidifiers can help reduce moisture levels inside the home. Additionally, ensure that there’s adequate ventilation throughout the house by leaving internal doors and cabinets open.
Removing soft furnishings like curtains, cushions, bedding and rugs can also help prevent mould growth. Store these items in a dry place to keep them fresh and ready for use when you return.
When you are removing any soft furnishings, don’t forget to also take home any valuable items such as the TV etc.
Securing windows and doors
Ensuring that your windows and doors are well-sealed is vital for keeping the cold out and preventing dampness. Check all seals and locks to ensure they’re in good condition. If necessary, replace weather stripping to provide an extra layer of protection against drafts.
Tips for winterising your static home
Exterior maintenance
The exterior of your static home also needs attention. Start by inspecting the roof for any damage or loose tiles that could let in water. Cleaning the gutters is equally important to prevent blockages that could cause water damage.
Check the exterior walls for any cracks or gaps and repair them to keep out pests and moisture. Make sure the ventilation bricks are clear.
Taking care of these tasks will protect your home’s structure and integrity throughout the winter.
Grounds and surroundings
Don’t forget to clear your garden/decking and secure any outdoor furniture or items. Leaving these items unsecured can result in damage from winter storms and make your home more attractive to pests. Store garden furniture and tools in a secure location.
Pest prevention
Pests can be a significant problem in static homes over the winter. Seal any entry points where rodents or insects might get in and consider using deterrents like repellents. Regularly checking these deterrents throughout the winter can help keep your home pestfree.
Final checks
Before you leave your static home for the winter, conduct a final check of all systems. Ensure that everything is turned off, sealed, and secure. Make sure the cupboard doors and the fridge door are left open. Any larger items, such as sofa backs, should be removed from against the inside of the static home’s walls, to allow air to freely circulate.
Leaving a checklist for reopening can be helpful to remind you of any tasks you’ll need to address when you return.
Conclusion
Winterising your static home might seem like a daunting task, but by following these tips, you can ensure that your home remains in excellent condition throughout the colder months.
Regular maintenance and careful preparation are key to avoiding damage and making the reopening process smooth and stress-free.
What’s on?
Here are some caravan shows and events coming up in the next few months that you may be interested in. All details are correct at time of going to press - but obviously do check that an event is still running before you leave as things can change very quickly!
17-19 January 2025 - Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2LG
The January Motorhome Campervan Sale
While, at the time of writing, details are still to be finalised, their website says that local and national dealers will be in attendance, showcasing new and used vehicles, many with exclusive show offers.
You can view the exhibitors attending the show here. This page will be updated as more dealers get added.6-9
February 2025 - Scottish Event Campus, Glasgow G3 8YW
Scottish Caravan Motorhome and Holiday Home Show
With caravans, motorhomes, campervans, holiday homes, lodges, tents, boats and accessories all in one destination – make the Scottish, Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show part of your holiday plans!
With over 170 exhibitors, you’ll find the biggest brands, latest models and widest selection of caravans and motorhomes from the country’s leading manufacturers and dealers so that you can compare models, layouts and specifications before choosing which one’s for you.
18-23 February 2025 - Birmingham NEC, North Ave, Marston Green, Birmingham, B40 1NT
Caravan Camping & Motorhome Show 2025
The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show has everything you need for your next adventure. With more than 400 leading exhibitors offering their latest and most innovative products and services across almost 20 acres of the NEC - it’s the UK’s biggest start of year leisure vehicle and camping showcase!
Not only will you be able to research, step inside and compare the latest interior layouts, furnishings and specifications of new for 2025 motorhomes, campervans, touring caravans and caravan holiday homes, but you’ll also find a whole new hall bursting with tents, trailer tents and camping equipment, great-value UK and European campsites and holiday parks. Plus, show only offers on thousands of accessories and gadgets to help make your touring and camping holidays even more enjoyable.
