Chairman: Grenville Chamberlain OBE Director General: Nick Lomas
WELCOME
John Thynne says:
Following four days of extensive testing by our experienced team of judges, we are proud to announce the overall winner of the 40th Towcar of the Year competition: the Škoda Karoq Sportline 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG 4x4 SCR.
“ The Škoda was a worthy victor ”
Praised for its four-wheel drive system, an engine that provides ‘useful mid-range punch’ and a large boot capable of swallowing all your electric models, were well represented this year. While such models might still be limited to relatively short-range towing, it may only be a matter of time before one picks up the overall title... Turn to page 63 to find out about all 24 of our entries and discover which vehicles topped the podium.
essential caravanning kit, the Škoda was a worthy victor.
This year’s competition was split into six classes based on the entrants’ towing limits, and each car was put through its paces at the famous Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. Special prizes were also presented for best ‘family towcar’ and ‘large family towcar’ as well as ‘electric vehicle’ and ‘plug-in hybrid’.
In fact, vehicles using alternative power sources, in the form of mild, full and plug-in hybrids, as well as fully-
COVER IMAGE: Christopher Marchant
We would like to thank image libraries Alamy, Getty Images/iStock and Shutterstock for supplying a number of images used in this magazine.
about shiny new towcars, be sure to the magnificent west of Scotland eyes. Meanwhile, Karla Baker gives an insight into accessible touring in the Loire Valley (pages 50-52) and Jonathan Manning uses a Club pigeon shooting (pages 90-93). Enjoy the issue!
Editions of your Club magazine – with lots of extra content – are also available via an app on iPhone/iPad and Android tablets and phones.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
TOURING
26 UK SITES
A ndrew Ditton explores the rugged scenery of west Scotland on a seven-stop tour
41 DIRECTORY UPDATES
Updates to your Sites Directory & Handbook
50 FOREIGN TOURING
Karla Baker experiences the beauty of the Loire Valley in France
90 ACTIVITY BREAKS
Jonathan Manning tries clay pigeon shooting in Norfolk
15 HEADLINES
Club and industry updates 20 SITES
The latest from around the network
55 OVERSEAS
Take a look at our worldwide an d European break ideas
101 CENTRE LINES
News from local groups
SPECIALS
25 GREEN MATTERS
Update on the Club’s involvement in the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative
63 TOWCAR OF THE YEAR
Results from the 40th staging of our prestigious competition
102 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Reports and agenda ahead of the Club’s AGM
MEMBER BENEFITS
23 GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE
Offers at five fantastic attractions
58 MEMBER OFFERS
Save money on a range of touring products
REGULARS
9 DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW
Nick Lomas reports on the late Duke of Edinburgh’s much-loved caravan
10 YOUR PHOTOS
Great pictures from your days out and touring adventures
12 CLUB MATTERS
How the Club can help you save money at home and away
44 LETTERS
Your comments and views
79 PRACTICAL
Protect your leisure vehicle from the elements with a cover
89 PRODUCT SHOWCASE
Outdoor clothing and products to help you get ready for autumn
95 COUNTRY MATTERS
David Chapman explains how to tune into the sounds of nature
114 CROSSWORD
A chance to win Club vouchers
115 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS
To advertise, call 01342 336817
130 TAIL LIGHTS
The weird, wacky and wonderful world of touring
132 CYCLE ROUTE
Jonathan Manning rides from Great Yarmouth Racecourse Club campsite
camc.com/contact
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367,796 Circulation: Jan-Dec 2021
by Mohn Media, Gütersloh, Germany
OPINION
Nick Lomas says:
In April 2018 the Club received a very unexpected call from the Curator of the Club’s archive at Beaulieu’s National Motor Museum. The Royal Mews at Windsor Castle had been on the line asking for advice on finding a new owner for The Duke Of Edinburgh’s caravan. They wondered whether the Club could help. Details about the caravan, and how it was used by the Duke, were somewhat brief, but we were able to get in touch with Windsor and the conversation revealed a fascinating story.
“ The van was much loved and well used
”
Having reviewed the vehicles in the Mews, His Royal Highness decided the caravan was no longer needed and that it ought to have a new home. What was the van? A Fleetwood Garland 165-5 from 1993, ordinary and original in every respect. The obvious answer, it seemed to me, was that we should take care of it and the Executive Committee agreed. The Duke had been our Patron since 1952 and so the Fleetwood’s story, along with his, are tied to the Club’s own history.
The next challenge was transporting the van from Windsor to its new home; quite a logistical exercise, with safe transport and secure storage required. The van and accompanying paperwork, including CRIS registration document and signed 1998 bill of sale from the supplying dealer, exited the gates of Windsor Castle on 20 August 2018 to be stowed on a Club storage site.
In the meantime we began learning about the vehicle and how it had been used by Prince Philip. As a passionate carriage driver, he used the Fleetwood when taking part in the pastime. According to the team at Windsor, the van was much loved and well used over many years. It provided shelter and an inconspicuous base when the Duke of Edinburgh took part in carriage driving events all over the British countryside.
Way back in 2008, the Club’s other prize caravan, the grandfather of them all, the-first-for-leisure 1884/85 Wanderer, had been found safe harbour at the Club’s campsite at Broadway, in the Cotswolds, following displays at the NEC Caravan Show, the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, and as part of a feature on the BBC’s Countryfile in celebration of the Club’s centenary. Now it is joined by Prince Philip’s caravan, which is on display to members along with items from the Duke’s seven decades as Club Patron. It’s our quirky tribute to a unique man who shared our passion for the great outdoors.
You can see the display when staying at Broadway Club Campsite, which is open all year. Enjoy your visit.
Printing
YOUR PHOTOS
Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera
FINE IMPRESSION
The Claude Monet-inspired National Plant Collection of Water Lilies at Bennetts Water Gardens, Weymouth. (Nearest Club campsite: East Fleet Farm AS.) Mark Hobson
LIGHT SHOW
A stormy sky – hopefully one that passed quickly – at Exebridge Lakeside Club Campsite.
Peter and Brenda Scott
VIEW FINDER
Taken during a week’s stay at the Cowdale Hall Farm CL, Buxton –this view shows fields adjacent to the site.
Bob Rudge
A glimpse of daily life on the cliffs near Bridlington Club Campsite.
John Trewhitt
HUFFIN AND PUFFIN
Dorset
East Riding of Yorkshire
Devon
Derbyshire
DRINK IT IN
Looking over Loch Cluanie, near Morvich Club Campsite. Christopher Macgowan
Send your images to camc. com/inspiring adventures or tag us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #inspiringadventures
STAR LINE-UP
This row of colourful, painted beach huts can be found at Avon Beach in Christchurch, just to the south-west of the New Forest. (Nearest Club campsite: New Forest Centenary.)
Adrian Lovell
The Old Water Mill at Coombe Gill, near Borrowdale Club Campsite in the Lake District. Chris Baldock
Another day ends peacefully at St David’s Lleithyr Meadow Club Campsite in south Wales. David Goacher
GILL MILL
Highlands
Pembrokeshire
Cumbria Dorset
RED SKY AT NIGHT
Helping you get more from the great outdoors
How your membership can help you enjoy the touring lifestyle for less...
We are all living through incredibly challenging times. We continue to see the cost of everyday items rising and the outlook for the next 12 months looks bumpy. It’s tough and we know it’s likely to get harder before it gets easier. As the UK’s number-one-rated touring club, we will do all we can to help you make the most of your membership and save you money, both when you are touring and when you are at home.
We have more than 50 fantastic member offers covering a wide range of interests and activities, enabling you to save money every day of the week. So far this year, members have saved in excess of £1.3 million! We are also working with a number of partners to bring you new, exciting offers to help your money go even further in the future. To find out more visit camc.com/offers.
View near Leek in Staffordshire near Blackshaw Moor Club Campsite
Photo by member Chris Marchant
SAVINGS ON TOURING ESSENTIALS
Club Shop: You can save up to 10% on more than 3,000 touring essentials when you visit our Club Shop. With discounts on items like awnings, solar panel systems, sat-navs, televisions, cleaning and maintenance products, and parts and fittings, check shop.camc.com
Caravan Cover: This is provided directly by the Club for the benefit of our members. Currently if you switch to us, we’ll refund your cancellation fees up to a maximum of £50 (terms and conditions apply – see camc.com/ caravancover for details).
Motorhome and Campervan Insurance:
This is provided by the Club through our partner broker, Devitt Insurance Services. It uses a panel of well-known insurers to secure the best price for the cover you need. Currently we’ll beat your renewal price by at least £25 when you switch to us (terms and conditions apply – see camc.com/insurance
LEISURE AND FAMILY-TIME SAVINGS
UK Club Campsites: Every time you stay at one of our quality Club campsites that is open to non-members, you save £13 per night just by being a member. And that’s not all – dog-owners can bring their four-legged friends on holiday
Overseas holidays: If you choose to stay on one of our 300-plus Club-approved campsites across Europe, you can rest easy with our lowest price guarantee. If you do find the same holiday cheaper, let us know and we’ll match the price (terms and conditions apply – see camc.com/ pricematch for details). Book your holiday online and you automatically save the £10 booking fee – and remember members can also save up to 10% on ferry and Eurotunnel crossings (see camc.com/ overseas).
Experience Freedom: member wanting to try something new, an avid tourer looking for on-site accommodation for friends and family, or
are new to the Club entirely, you can save 10% on glamping holidays.
We have a selection of pods, yurts, safari tents and cabins available at eight
See camc.com/experiencefreedom find out more.
Great Savings Guide: You can save up to 50% on leisure activities, adventures and new experiences, as well as visits to historic properties, botanic gardens, heritage
teamed up with hundreds of attractions across the country – see camc.com/ greatsavingsguide
Partners: We work with some fantastic outdoor brands to support you in your hobbies and pastimes, including UK Cycling (50% off membership), English Surfing (20% off membership and surf/SUP lessons), National Trust (10% off membership) and British Canoeing (10% off membership). You’ll save even more on accessories with
DID YOU KNOW?
Members who booked a stay at one of our Experience Freedom locations have saved on average more than
In 2021, members saved more than £3.8 million on their favourite products, services and activities. So far this year, members have saved
Members saved more than £140,000 in 2021 by purchasing touring essentials through Club Shop, in partnership with PRIMA Leisure.
We have paid out on 94%* of claims through our Caravan Cover, making sure our
of pocket and can continue to enjoy the great outdoors.
*Based on claims data for the period 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022.
Glamping at Abbey Wood
Photo by member Alex Morton
Safari tent at Southland
Photo by Claire Levis
Cordless High-Pressure Cleaning
Power Clean can use water from a tap as well as from any other source you choosea bowl or bucket, a swimming pool or even a river. Power Clean has up to ten times the power of a regular garden hose and an impressive running-time of up to 60 minutes* from a single charge. Power Clean comes ready to use with a detachable 2.0Ah or 4.0Ah Li-ion rechargeable battery pack and all the handy accessories you’ll ever need. Now you really can use a pressure washer anywhere you want - even
Be the envy of other motorhome and caravan owners, order your Cordless Pressure Washer today & we’ll deliver it the next working day for FREE!
Power Clean comes complete with: 2.0Ah Li-ion rechargeable battery or *4.0Ah Li-ion rechargeable battery for increased power & longer run time. Battery charger, 2 Pressure Wands, Soap Gun, 6m hose & Filter, 2 Variable Spray Heads. Weighs only 1.6kg. P20 pressure up to 320psi. P40 Max pressure up to 650psi. 12 Month Warranty.
The Škoda Karoq Sportline 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG 4x4 SCR has been named overall Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2023 following a week of rigorous testing at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire.
The Club’s prestigious Towcar competition is held annually to help members make an informed choice about future purchases.
During the testing period, our judges studied and drove 24 vehicles which were split across a range of different classes and categories. As well as receiving the overall award, the Karoq triumphed in its Class (Caravan Weight 1,400-1500kg) and in the Family Towcars Category.
An excellent year for the manufacturer also saw a stablemate of the Karoq – the
Škoda Enyaq iV 80X Sportline –secure top spot in the Caravan Weight 1,200-1,300kg Class. Other class and category winners included models from Volkswagen, Volvo, Porsche and Polestar. You can read about all the entrants in the report included with this issue of the magazine and on our dedicated page at camc.com/towcar
MEMBER SAVING
If your vehicle has won any Towcar of the Year class or category since 2015 (except discount on new or renewing car insurance through the Club. Visit camc.com/towcar and camc.com/ insurance/car-insurance for more information and terms and conditions.
Crystal Palace /Baltic Wharf
Following discussions between Bromley London Borough Council and the Club, we have been granted an extended lease for Crystal Palace Club Campsite, which enables us to keep the site open for bookings up to and including Sunday 18 December 2022. Bookings can be made now. As London is a such a popular destination, we are pleased that members have more time to enjoy one of our most popular sites.
At Baltic Wharf Club Campsite in Bristol we are now welcoming arrivals up to and including Sunday
18 December 2022, departing no later than noon on Monday 19 December 2022. Please note: although not expected, November-December bookings could be subject to cancellation if notice is received from the landlord. The Club has been operating Baltic Wharf campsite for several years on a renewable, short-term lease while the Council planned for redevelopment of the site into up to 190 new homes. After the departure date above the Club will sadly vacate the site.
MS VISITS PENRHOS
Sam Rowlands, MS for North Wales, was met by Caravan and Motorhome Club Head of Governance Emma McQuillan at our Penrhos campsite on Anglesey in August. Mr Rowlands is Chair of the Senedd’s Tourism Cross Party Group, which looks at the challenges faced by the tourism sector in Wales and explores how tourism can contribute to the social and economic well-being of Wales. It is important for the Club to be able to represent the membership by inviting elected representatives of devolved governments to visit our sites. Emma was able to showcase what the Club does and discuss matters of concern with Mr Rowlands that may arise in the future.
One of the Crystal Palace Park sphinxes
NEC SHOW COMPETITION: WIN AN AUSTRALIAN MOTORHOME TOUR
Visit the Club’s stand at the Motorhome and Caravan Show (National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, 18-23 October) and you could win an incredible holiday in Australia.
The prize – which is worth more than £8,000 – is for two adults to experience our ‘Australia’s Southern Delights’ 31-day independent motorhome tour. This trip gives you the chance to explore the stunning stretch of coastline from Sydney to Adelaide via Melbourne and discover Australia’s amazing flora and fauna along the way.
The competition is open to anyone attending the October NEC Show, and terms and conditions will be available when entering. Full details of the tour can be found at camc.com/worldwide. Good luck!
WHAT’S ON AT THE SHOW?
The Motorhome and Caravan Show – the UK’s largest leisure vehicle show – will feature the latest
Extra content in the Digital Magazine
The digital version of the Club Magazine contains extra content each month – simply download it for free from the App Store or Google Play by searching for ‘CAMC Magazine’. The October Digital Magazine includes an array of wildlife sound recordings to bring this month’s Country Matters piece to life, while a video accompanies our test of the Volkswagen Caddy California (see pages 84-87). There’s also a cycle ride from Great Yarmouth Club Campsite, interactive puzzles and an extra page of Tail Lights.
caravans, campervans, motorhomes, trailer tents and accessories. If you are attending please stop by at the Club’s stand to say ‘hello’ – our staff will be on hand to answer any queries. Meanwhile, the Club will be offering motorhome manoeuvring taster sessions (a full, valid UK driving licence card is required, and please book early to avoid disappointment).
‘Club Day’ at the show is Tuesday 18 October. Members of the Caravan and Motorhome Club attending on Club Day will be able to take advantage of discounted tickets (pre-booking is required; please see pages 4 and 5 of this issue for information, terms and conditions and a code to apply the discount).
We’re delighted to report that TV presenter, keen campervanner and Club member Matt Allwright will be chatting on our stage about his love of the great outdoors, while we also welcome TV presenter and former tennis ace Annabel Croft – who
recently renovated her own campervan – for the first time.
Full details about the show can be found at mcshow.co.uk. We look forward to seeing you there!
TEMPORARY NEC CAMPSITE
The Club will be running a temporary campsite at the NEC in Birmingham from Monday 17 October-Sunday 23 October 2022 (inclusive). Coinciding with the show, this is a great opportunity to stay a stone’s throw from the exhibition halls –
You recommend...
particularly convenient if you are planning to attend across a number of days, or if you have a long drive either side of your visit.
Located in the NEC’s North Car Parks 10 and 10a, the campsite will include EHU and toilets, and a bar and restaurants will be available within a short distance. Pitch prices start from £37 per night – to find out more and to book please see camc.com/neccampsiteoct. Please note that entry to the show is not included in the pitch fee.
Cheltenham Racecourse
Place your bets before exploring the impressive Gloucestershire spa town
“Make sure if you get the park and ride into Cheltenham you venture to the Montpellier area
a bite to eat and John Gordons for a nice glass of something, both in Montpellier area.” (July 2022)
“Having attended the races at Cheltenham for nearly 40 years, this was our first time staying at the site and absolutely loved our time here. The wonderful wardens... the fantastic views across the racecourse towards Cleeve Hill from our pitch, the spotlessly clean toilet, shower and washing
facilities, the walk around the racecourse itself, Prestbury village a 10 min walk away, the Gloucester and Warwickshire Heritage Railway a 5 min walk away – the list goes on.” (June 2022)
“We walk into town from the site through Pittville Park, about a mile. The views across the Cotswolds are fabulous... Makes it a bit special to be on one of the most iconic racecourses in the country.” (September 2021)
Cheltenham Racecourse Photo by Peter Kelly
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Find out more at baileyofbristol.co.uk or speak to your local Retailer.
BRANDON FORD CL
Our recent touring article on
CLEAN AIR ZONES
GRAND OPENING
The Caravan and Motorhome Club Singers are looking to find a rehearsal pianist – if you are interested please contact Singers Chairman Viv Doveston via chairmancamcsingers @gmail.com.
camc.com/redevelopments
OCTOBER 18-23 Birmingham: 28-30 Aberdeenshire:
NOVEMBER 11-13 Devon:
Note:
VOLUNTEER CL ADVISER VACANCY
WE’RE OPEN ALL YEAR!
Did you know that over 45 Club and Affiliated campsites, as well as many Certificated Locations, are open all year? Or that more than 20 Club and Affiliated campsites have extended opening dates, with several remaining open until January 2023? This means it’s easy to find a fantastic touring destination during the late autumn and winter months – great news if you are a fan of walks among crunchy, fallen leaves, enjoy trips to
Get more from your Club membership with great value breaks this autumn and winter
Christmas markets or simply want to get away over the festive period.
Off-season touring is a much more comfortable experience than it was in the past. Modern caravans, motorhomes and campervans can cope with the cooler temperatures, while most campsites benefit from heated washrooms, hot showers and electric hook-ups, so you’ll be able to stay warm and enjoy touring whatever the weather.
PEAK DISTRICT PICK:
CASTLETON CLUB CAMPSITE
Enjoy a variety of fantastic walks and visit cosy, welcoming country pubs while staying at this popular spot in the heart of the national park.
Sample price: from £27.50 per night for two adults and a standard pitch for stays in October, November and December 2022.
LAKE DISTRICT PICK:
MEATHOP FELL CLUB CAMPSITE
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy spectacular scenery when you pitch up at this pretty site – and with fewer tourists around you might have some spots all to yourself!
Sample price: from £23.90 per night for two adults and a standard pitch for stays in November 2022.
CITY PICK:
ABBEY WOOD CLUB CAMPSITE
How about a relatively cheap break in London, where a whole host of festive pop-up markets will give you chances to pick up special gifts? Journey times into the centre are even shorter than before thanks to the new Elizabeth Line.
Sample price: from £28 for two adults per night and a standard pitch for stays between 31 October and 15 December 2022.
We’re always trying to help you get away for less – remember that kids aged under 5 go free on all of our campsites, and you can find great, money saving offers at attractions across the country in our Great Savings Guide (camc.com/greatsavingsguide).
The full list of sites that are open all year can be found by visiting camc.com/oay. For now, check out the following great-value break suggestions... *Under 5s stay for free at all UK Club campsites.
SCOTLAND PICK:
EDINBURGH CLUB CAMPSITE
Edinburgh’s Christmas market is always a highlight – but take a look at whatsoninedinburgh.co.uk and you’ll see an array of concerts, exhibitions and festivals planned for the coming months.
Sample price: from £26.50 per night for two adults and a standard pitch for stays in November and December 2022.
Sites with extended opening dates
Over 20 Club and Affiliated sites have extended opening dates throughout November and December – some even open into January –allowing you to tour for longer. Closing dates vary; see the full list at camc.com/oay
The number of open campsites, their availability and prices are correct at time of publication. Please see camc.com/oay for the most up to date information.
Hathersage Moor near Castleton Club Campsite
Photo by David Watson
Kelly Hall Tarn near Meathop Fell Club Campsite
Photo by member John Peat
Edinburgh Castle near Edinburgh Club Campsite
Photo by member Maxine Shergold
Picture perfect
We love to show off your fantastic, inspirational images – they appear in emails, on our website, on social media and in the Sites Directory & Handbook, to give just a few examples – and we are excited to report that they are now also being used as wall murals on Club campsites.
If you have visited the refurbished Winchester Morn Hill Club Campsite since it reopened in August, then you may have already seen the initial murals. They have been installed in communal areas, such as the bathroom facility blocks, dishwashing and laundry areas, and the pictures – all of which were taken by members and shared with the Club – showcase local sights and amazing scenery. You can find out more about Andy Pattenden and Adrian Buckenham, the two talented photographers who kindly provided their pictures for Winchester Morn Hill, in the panel on the right.
Our preference is to use photos by members instead of images by professional photographers,
By Adrian Buckenham
where possible. We believe that it is important to put you at the heart of everything we do; using your pictures in this way helps to strengthen the sense of community that has been key to the Club’s success for more than a century. We also hope we have managed to ‘bring the outdoors indoors’ and enhance the on-site experience for guests.
At the time of going to press, murals have also been installed at Clumber Park and Scarborough West Ayton Club campsites, and we’re currently introducing some more at Lady Margaret’s Park. Be sure to check them out when you next visit!
Do you have a fantastic picture that could be considered for a wall mural in the future? We would love to hear from you – you could be in with a chance of receiving a complimentary three-night stay at any of our Club campsites. Head to camc.com/murals to find out more, including terms and conditions.
By Adrian Buckenham
IN FOCUS
Meet the photographers behind the wall murals at Winchester Morn Hill Club Campsite...
ANDY PATTENDEN
“I have always loved Winchester. I set off early one morning before sunrise to find the streets deserted and all to myself! I set about taking shots of different locations and I sent my favourites to the Club. I do contribute regularly as I travel around the country. Being a member of the Club allows me to get inspiration from articles in the magazines and hearing of others’ experiences. How exciting and what a great reward for my efforts – also allowing visitors at [Winchester] Morn Hill to see the beautiful city of Winchester!”
ADRIAN BUCKENHAM
“I have only been a member since 2017, which was when we got our first van. We have found the Club campsites to be so good, we rarely use commercial ones. I am now retired and we aim to go away in our van at least once a month all year round. I have virtually always got my camera with me when we are out and about and just enjoy taking (proper) photos of where we have been and what we have done. Getting involved with the [Winchester] Morn Hill murals has been great fun and I find the idea of sharing some of my pictures with the members, letting them know what is out there and near their campsites really exciting.”
Images by members Andy Pattenden (main) and Adrian Buckenham (inset)
LASTING ADVENTURE
We’re here to help you make the right choice, so you can keep on exploring the places you love. Buy right, buy better, and buy to last with our expert advice, unrivalled services and the best brands. Make the right choice with our experts.
15% discount in-store and online for Caravan and Motorhome Club members with code AF-CAMC-M1 Expires: 31.03.2023. Please visit camc.com/cotswoldoutdoor for details.
DAYS OUT FOR LESS
MEMBERS RECEIVE DISCOUNTS AT HUNDREDS OF ATTRACTIONS ACROSS THE COUNTRY THANKS TO OUR GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE. HERE ARE FIVE FANTASTIC VENUES TO CONSIDER...
WHITEHOUSE FARM CENTRE, NORTHUMBERLAND
Club members can claim a 10% discount on admission to this fun farm attraction near Morpeth. It is home to domestic and exotic animals (some of which you can meet and feed) as well as several indoor and outdoor play areas, tractor rides, a cafe and more.
Nearest Club campsites: Old Hartley, Nunnykirk, River Breamish
PECORAMA, DEVON
Our new offer saves members 10% on admission. Situated near Beer, Pecorama offers award-winning gardens, steam locomotives on a mile-long, 7 1/4in gauge railway, sea views, outdoor play areas, home-made food and refreshments. Dogs are welcome and motorhome parking is available (please contact venue for details).
Nearest Club campsites: Putts Corner; Wood Farm AS
HOLKHAM, NORFOLK
Magnificent Holkham offers a great day out – and as a Club member you get 20% off the price of admission. Explore the magnificent Hall, enjoy the Holkham Stories Experience, relax at the cafe or indulge in outdoor activities (extra charges are applicable in some cases). Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times in the park. Motorhome parking is available; please contact venue for details.
Nearest Club campsites: Sandringham Estate, Incleborough Fields, Seacroft
10% OFF
BRIGHTON TOY AND MODEL MUSEUM, EAST SUSSEX
This new offer entitles members to a 10% discount on admission. See a host of toys and models of yesteryear in curated displays drawn from a huge collection. Nearest Club campsite: Brighton
PEAK DISTRICT MINING MUSEUM, DERBYSHIRE
Get a glimpse into the life of a hard-working miner at this attraction in Matlock Bath – you can even clamber through recreated mine tunnels before donning a helmet for a guided tour of a real mine, with the chance to pan for minerals (additional fee applies). Members receive £1 off adult tickets or £3 off family tickets. Nearest Club campsites: Carsington Water; Chatsworth Park
Please visit camc.com/greatsavingsguide for vouchers, discount codes and pre-booking where relevant, as well as terms and conditions for all offers. Check opening dates and times before visiting.
Royal occasions
Mark Feast, Sustainability Advisor at the Club, brings us up to date on
Back in March, we announced the Club’s intention to get involved in the Queen’s Green Canopy scheme, a tree-planting initiative that recognises Her Majesty’s 70 years of service to the nation.
The celebration spans two official tree planting seasons and at the end of the first, in March 2022, more than one million extra trees were growing across the UK. A truly fantastic accomplishment so far – for more information visit queensgreencanopy.org.
The Club has committed to planting 2022 trees this year in support of the initiative and we are proud to share with you some of the projects that have taken place so far, as well
as others that are planned from October onwards across our site network.
In February the first six trees were ceremonially planted at Chapel Lane Club Campsite, in Wythall, near Birmingham. Three wild cherry and three silver birch trees were planted by television presenter, journalist and Club member Matt Allwright; singer, TV presenter and farmer JB Gill; Club Chairman Grenville Chamberlain OBE; Club Director General Nick Lomas, and Club Director of Marketing and Membership Services Harvey Alexander.
At Winchester Morn Hill Club Campsite, 151 new trees will be planted as part of the site’s redevelopment and we hope members will enjoy watching the wide variety of species as they mature.
In Cornwall, Carnon Downs Club Campsite, a recently acquired site on the network, will be planting 250 trees, including small-leaved lime, common beech and sessile oak.
Moving north, Cayton Village Club Campsite will supplement its wildflower planting with an additional 400 trees.
We would love to hear from you too – if you have been part of ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’ send your pictures to magazine@camc.com.
This magazine went to press prior to the sad news of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. We hope our continued involvement in the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative will serve as a fitting tribute to her 70 years of service to the nation.
Carnon Downs Club Campsite
Winchester Morn Hill
Planting at Chapel Lane Club Campsite
New growth at Cayton Village
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
See camc.com for the latest site information and follow official Covid guidelines at all times. We also recommend that you check with businesses/attractions that are listed regarding opening dates/ restrictions.
SIDE story
Rugged scenery, picturesque pitches, and one of the best steam train journeys in the country –Andrew Ditton takes a leisurely tour of the Scottish west
Dramatic mountainscape near Crieff
Lochlane
Certificated Location
Offers stunning views from its terraced, hardstanding pitches, each of which has its own water supply and EHU. Sites Directory & Handbook p517
“Our friendly CL is run as a family affair – we all muck in to ensure it’s kept neat and tidy. Members enjoy seeing wildlife such as deer and red kites, as well as our own cows.”
Laura
Food & drink
The Steading Courtyard, Broich Road, Crieff PH7 3SD
“If you’re lucky you’ll see red kites hovering above ”
Looking across Loch Earn to St Fillans village
Inset from left: Drummond Castle Gardens near Crieff; Moodnight Meadow lucky you’ll spot amazing wildlife
Holidays to Scotland should come with a warning: if you’re not careful, the country will seduce you and take up residence in your heart. Don’t attempt to resist its rugged charm – I tried to do so for many years before giving in, dismantling my life in south-east England and taking up residence north of the border.
Despite calling Scotland my home all year round, I can’t think of anywhere I’d rather go on holiday. This tour presents the
best of what the country has to offer: walks for all abilities; nature that will leave you open-mouthed; Club campsites with stunning views; exemplary local food and drink; and unforgettable days out. Above all, this break invites you to slow
Site view
down. Take your time and spend a little longer than usual at each site to enjoy everything on offer, and plan to spend twice as long as you normally would on the connecting drives. You’ll need to stop frequently to absorb Scotland’s beauty lest you become overwhelmed by the sheer rugged grandeur of it all.
GOOD CRIEFF!
Approaching from England and the Central Belt of Scotland, we start this tour at Lochlane Certificated Location (CL) near the charming market town of Crieff. Lochlane opened in 2018, and is the perfect place to power down if you’ve had a long journey. Glorious sweeping views are on offer from each of the tiered hardstanding pitches and, if you’re lucky, you’ll see red kites hovering above as deer daintily pick
2
Clachan Club
Campsite
Quiet, shaded site nestled among trees in a rural location. Be aware that there’s no facilities block or children’s play area.
Pitches: 32
Max outfit length: 9m
Member view
“We find these sites without facilities suit us as they are so quiet and laid-back. We really love the wildlife here and enjoy photographing the birds and red squirrels.”
Sue and Mike
Site
view
“We love it here! It’s a quiet site with a lovely ambience. We find most visitors are regulars who come back year after year. The village of Kenmore is well worth visiting.”
Andrew and Janet
Food & drink
Shutters Restaurant, Main Street, Killin FK21 8UN Contact: 01567 820314
Culture
Blair Castle and Gardens, Blair Athol, Pitlochry PH18 5TL
Contact: atholl-estates.co.uk, 01796 481207
Outdoor fun
Highland Safaris, Aberfeldy PH15 2JQ
Contact: highlandsafaris.net, 01887 820071
Member offer available: camc.com/greatsavingsguide
For the family
Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, Killin FK21 8TY
Contact: nts.org.uk, 01567 820988
Scan here to book a pitch at Clachan
A great system to
Same day installation
Self-Levelling
Easy tyre replacement
No ovalisation of tyres in storage
Facilitated roof washing
Sleeping in the same position
Trim of the camper always levelled
Wireless remote control
Facilitated waste water discharge
E ective alarm
their way across the fields. A 10-minute walk takes you to the secluded banks of the River Earn, which slowly meanders from Loch Earn to the River Tay in Perth.
“We attract lots of hillwalkers,” says Laura, one of the family members who takes care of the site. “Ben Chonzie and Ben Vorlich are popular mountain walks, while Lady Mary’s Walk offers a more sedate option along the River Earn.”
If you prefer your off-road explorations to feature knobbly tyres rather than walking boots, you’ll find blue, red and black mountain bike trails at nearby Comrie Croft.
BOOKING INFO
For the latest details and opening information for all our sites, please see camc.com
All this seemed too much like hard work to me. I chose instead to visit Caithness Glass and watch the craftsmen turn molten blobs into outstanding glass creations, before enjoying a walk with the dog through the delightful MacRosty Park in Crieff.
Onward to our next destination, Killin. While the distance might be short, the journey cannot be rushed. Much of the road follows the shores of Loch Earn, which twinkles seductively as you drive. Take my advice, and don’t fight the urge to stop. There are laybys a-plenty where you can pull in, brew up, and soak in the view before carrying on. Killin spoils members with its offer of two very different Club campsites. Last
3
Maragowan
Club Campsite
Full-facility site within easy walking distance of Killin on the banks of the River Lochay. 99 9m
Member view
“We’re here for the mountain biking! This site makes a great base – it’s well-kept and the views are beautiful.”
Site view
“This site attracts a variety of members looking to enjoy the great outdoors, from walkers to canoeists. We’re also in a good position to reach Stirling, Glencoe and Fort William.”
Part of the site network since 1962 – offers sweeping sea views from every pitch and a full facility block.
Pitches: 120
Member view
“The views from the pitch are spectacular! It’s a very dog-friendly site, and we enjoy the railway walks to Connel and Benderloch.”
Alan and Joyce
Site view
“We used to come here on holiday, and loved it so much we bought the site! We’re active Club members ourselves.”
Peter and Katy
Food & drink
Ben Lora Cafe & Bookshop, Benderloch, PA37 1QP
Contact: 01631 720296
Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds, Oban PA34 5TT
Contact: dunollie. org, 01631 570550
Outdoor fun Culture
Seafari Adventures, Easdale, Oban
Contact: seafari.co.uk, 01852 300003
For the family
Sea Kayak Oban, 6-8 Argyll Street, Oban PA34 5SG
Contact: seakayakoban.com, 01631 565310
“ I managed to bag a pitch right on the banks ”
year we opted for Clachan, a mile or so beyond the town and nestled quietly among the trees. Though it lacks a toilet block, Clachan benefits from a relaxed ambience that lures members back time and time again. (Make sure you check the site’s page at camc.com before you visit as the Club was trialling a new automatic barrier system as this issue went to press –see page 15 of the September magazine for more information. )
This year, though, I opted to stay at the full-facility Club campsite on the edge of town – Maragowan. Lucky me – I managed to bag a pitch right on the banks of the River Lochay, which attracts anglers, paddleboarders and kayakers. Kayaks and mountain bikes can be hired from the Outdoor Centre in Killin, where the staff can also advise you on the extensive network of cycle trails in the area.
One such trail, which is also accessible on foot, follows the former Killin Branch of
Lismore is accessible from Oban
the Callander and Oban Railway, which closed in 1965. From the site, it’s a pleasant walk to Loch Tay, where you can still spy the occasional wooden sleeper in the ballast of the path bed.
Alternatively, you can follow the line into town, admire the cascading Falls of Dochart on your way through, then pick up the line again at Acharn Forest. Walkers can take the four-mile trail through the forest, while those on two wheels normally head to the stunning Glen Ogle viaduct just over half an hour’s ride away.
5
Bunree Club Campsite
Full-facility site on the banks of Loch Linnhe, a short walk from Glenrigh Forest.
Pitches: 99
Max outfit length: 9m
Member view
“The views from our pitch are fantastic! There are nice walks for the dog, and as motorhomers we appreciate the on-site shop selling essentials – and cake!”
Tony and Judith
Site view
“This site attracts all ages of member, from the very young to the very old! Our new play area is being built, and the majority of pitches have a loch view.”
Jean and Brian
Food & drink
Highland Cinema, Cameron Square, Fort William PH33 6AJ Contact: highlandcinema.co.uk, 01397 609696
Culture
Glencoe Visitor Centre, near Glencoe village
Contact: nts.org.uk, 01855 811307
Outdoor fun
Cruise Loch Linnhe, Fort William Town Pier PH33 6DZ
Contact: cruiselochlinnhe. co.uk, 07367 436088
Member offer available: camc.com/greatsavingsguide
For the family
Vertical Descents, Onich, Fort William PH33 6SE
Contact: verticaldescents.com, 01397 747111
Scan here to book a pitch at Bunree
Falls of Dochart
Photo by Alison Kelly
GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE
Lochearnhead
Photo by member Alan Ingram
Loch Tay
Photo by member Katie Dudley
Tobermory, Isle of Mull
Mountain biker near Crieff
Left: the River Lochay, near Killin
Traigh Farm
Certificated Location
Grass pitches without EHU overlooking a stunning white sandy beach across to Skye. Sites Directory & Handbook p513
Member view
“We’ve been coming here for over 20 years. It doesn’t change, and we love that. We return for the golf, the beach, and the peace and quiet.”
Andrew and Jan
Site view
“Some of our regular visitors have been coming here for 40 years. We offer a small, intimate site that appeals to kayakers, cyclists, and those who simply enjoy the view.”
Eilidh
MULL IT OVER
Sound Bites, Main Street, Arisaig PH39 4NH
Contact: 01687 450386
Culture Food & drink
Arisaig Land Sea & Islands Centre, Arisaig, PH39 4NJ
Contact: armadalecastle.com, 01471 844305 For the family
It’s now time to leave the forest behind and head to the coast and the bustling town of Oban. Day trips to the Isle of Mull or Lismore are straightforward from Oban thanks to its comprehensive ferry links, or you can go further afield to the Inner, or even the Outer, Hebrides. Today, though, we are escaping the hubbub of Oban and settling a few miles outside town at North Ledaig Affiliated Site (AS).
The fame of North Ledaig (which has been affiliated with the Club for 60 years) is widespread thanks to its immaculate facility blocks, spacious pitches, and sweeping sea views across Ardmucknish Bay toward Lismore, and Mull beyond.
Bordering the site is a sandy beach, while running through it is the former Oban to Ballachulish Railway. Now part of Sustrans Route 78, this pathway, known as the Caledonia Way, links Oban with Fort William on mostly traffic-free routes. You can cycle or walk along it, most conveniently to the nearby village of Benderloch, where you can head up the hill to Beinn Lora. From the elevated viewpoint you can look down over the campsite (“I can see my house from here!”) as well as admire the views across the Firth of Lorne to the mountains of Mull. Reward yourself on the way back to the site with a
refreshing cuppa and slice of something decadent at the Ben Lora Cafe and Bookshop. There’s a wealth of things to do in Oban, from castles to boat trips to a spot of retail therapy, but for my wildlife fix I hitched up the caravan and headed to the Scottish poster boy of Club campsites, Bunree.
EVER-CHANGING
You’ll no doubt have seen pictures of Bunree in Club literature, because it’s just so ridiculously pretty. Loch Linnhe laps at the edge of the site, while the moody mountains across the water add a jaw-dropping backdrop that transforms every minute thanks to the ever-changing light and cloud cover.
A short walk away is the forest at Glen Righ, where you’ll find the 45-minute circular footpath that takes in the dramatic Inchree Falls. From the viewing platforms you might see brave families canyoning alongside the falls with the company Vertical Descents. My cousin and her son were brave enough to join them and absolutely loved it. Of course, I would have loved to have had a go (or so I pretended), but someone needed to look after the dog. Instead, I made use of the Club’s Great Savings Guide and took Dougal on a wildlife
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Photo by Linda Burgess
Outdoor fun
Right: stranded old fishing boat, Fort William
Walking App
You can use the Outdooractive app to enjoy a variety of walking routes in the region. The basic app is free to use, but Club members benefit from a €10 discount on Pro or Pro+ first-year subscriptions. With the Pro version you receive features such as access to topographical maps and special activity networks, while Pro+ gives you 3D maps and more. To find out more and to see a collection of routes near Club sites, see camc.com/outdooractive
“ The highlight of the trip was doubtlessly the seals ”
cruise with Cruise Loch Linnhe from the nearby town of Fort William. Quite simply, it was two of the most enjoyable hours I have ever spent in the area.
From the comfort of the cabin and clutching a warming cuppa, I listened to the fascinating commentary from our skipper, Karl, who brought to life everything around us, whether social, historical, geological, environmental or just plain quirky. The highlight of the trip was doubtlessly the seals. Karl skilfully manoeuvred the boat to within photo range
from the open deck, but remained far enough away so as not to upset them. It was magical.
Magic of the Harry Potter kind came the next day as I ticked another item off my bucket list and travelled on board The Jacobite steam train. My top tip is to allow plenty of time to park. We ended up having to walk 15 minutes from the motorhomefriendly West End Car Park to Fort William station, as all other car parks were full.
Riding in a classic Mark 1 carriage, we enjoyed stunning views en route to Mallaig as the train puffed and panted its way through the jaw-dropping landscape. Everybody wants to see Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous in the Harry Potter films, and the guard thoughtfully announced our approach in advance.
Upon arrival in Mallaig, there was enough time to take a wee boat trip, wander the harbour, or just do as we did and find a dog-friendly cafe (The Tea Garden at Mallaig Backpackers) for an enormous leisurely lunch before staggering the 50 yards or so back to the train.
If you prefer to visit Mallaig under your own steam, consider staying at Traigh Farm CL in Arisaig. As I was unhitching, a
Castle Stalker on Loch Laich, an inlet off Linnhe
Morvich Club Campsite
Morvich is a walker’s paradise. It is a full-facility site offering all hardstanding pitches and grass tent pitches.
Pitches: 77
Max outfit length: 9.2m
Member view
“Good access for motorhomes, and the views are spectacular! We’re using Morvich as an extended stopover on our way from the Western Isles.”
Paul and Jenn
Site view
“We have to keep pinching ourselves because the views are just unbelievable. There are 22 walks to choose from in the area, most starting from the site.”
Simon, Judith, Keith and Sarah
Food & drink
Kintail Lodge Hotel, Glenshiel Bridge, Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8HL
Contact: kintaillodgehotel.co.uk, 01599 511275
Culture
Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie, Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8DX
Contact: eileandonancastle. com, 01599 555202
Outdoor fun
Attadale Gardens, Strathcarron (see website for directions)
Contact: attadalegardens. com, 01520 722603
For the family
Calum’s Seal Trips, 32 Harbour Street, Plockton IV52 8TN
Contact: calums-sealtrips.com, 01599 544306
Scan here to book a pitch at Morvich Club Campsite
dejected-looking couple engaged me in conversation. They were staying elsewhere, but had tried unsuccessfully to reserve a pitch here. Boasting incredible views, it’s a very popular site, so booking way in advance if you want to stay more than a few days would appear to be essential.
Mallaig is about 10 minutes’ drive in one direction (or 45-60 minutes’ cycle ride if you’re feeling fit), while Arisaig is half that distance in the other direction. It was in Arisaig that I stumbled upon the dog-friendly Sound Bites Cafe, a vibrant place that offers good food, good music and good conversation with the staff. It’s serendipitous little finds like this that make a holiday memorable.
From Mallaig you can take a ferry as a foot passenger to Armadale on the Isle of Skye, and visit the nearby Armadale Castle for the day. Alternatively, you can board the ferry with your touring outfit (book in advance – see calmac.co.uk), enjoying the short hop over the Sound of Sleat as the most efficient means of getting to the final site on our tour.
COME BACK FOR MOR
A personal favourite of mine, Morvich Club Campsite, is nestled in a location that might realistically be described as awesome. The mountains surrounding the site emit a calming presence, casting visitors under their powerful spell.
If you have use of a car, then the circular route to the Isle of Skye taking the Glenelg ferry in one direction is a great day out. Built in 1969, this ferry is the last in the world to feature a manually operated turntable. Other recommended attractions include Attadale Gardens and Eilean Donan Castle.
However, there is actually no need to use the car or ’van at all. My vehicle remained stationary for the entire stay as I picked
off a couple of the 22 walks on offer in the area. One of the more straightforward options, which offered sightings of deer along the way, is the relaxed three-to-fourmile circular route from the site. Taking in open countryside, wooded areas and the adjacent River Croe, it’s a delightful way to spend a couple of hours.
It was my intention to tackle the 12-mile all-day round trip to the Falls of Glomach (which has a drop of 113m, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Britain), but we just didn’t manage it this time.
However, when you visit a corner of the country as attractive and as magical as the west of Scotland, you don’t really want to do everything on your first visit. Leave a few plans in reserve, so you have an excuse to go back.
Just be careful you don’t fall completely in love with the region and end up doing what we did and moving there. If our experience is anything to go by, you’re in serious danger of improving your quality of life beyond measure. You have been warned!
Mallaig harbour
Right: Neist Point Lighthouse, Isle of Skye
The Raleigh Motus ebike - many things to many people. What will yours be to you? Visit camc.com/raleigh to nd out about our exclusive member o er. Terms and conditions apply.
Model shown: Motus GT Hub
CL SITES UPDATES
CL SITES
Also see the CL section of the Club website (camc.com) for the most up-to-date details on all CLs. Pitch fees may be subject to variation –please check with the CL owner before booking. New CLs are also listed at camc.com/newcls.
NOTE: CL entries are identified by a reference/map number in the 2021/22 Sites Directory & Handbook They are listed here using the same number, unless otherwise specified.
NEW CLS
CHESHIRE
CHESTER (8.5m WSW) – Oak Tree Farm, Clive and Louise Terry, Penymynydd, Chester CH4 0EP. 01244 550092; 07753 840663; cths@btinternet.com. 117:SJ296623; 53.1536, -3.0529. Open 1 Apr-31 Oct; 1 acre; dogs; grass; 16A; max o’fit length: 9mtrs; price fr £22 (pitch + 2 ad).
CHELMSFORD (7.8m N) – Longlands Farm, Mr Glyn and Mrs Sara Watts, Boreham Road, Great Leighs CM3 1PR. 01245 808691; 07935 352589; glyn@longlandscamping.co.uk; stayatlonglands.co.uk. 167:TL733170; 51.824866, 0.513813. Open 1 Apr-
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
See camc.com for the latest site and CL information and follow official guidelines at all times. Please note: routes provided by autoroutes or satellite navigation systems may include roads unsuitable for vehicles towing trailers or caravans. For caravan-friendly local routes to sites we advise using directions published in the Sites Directory & Handbook and on our website.
31 Oct; 0.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; MH drive over waste disp; unfenced water; grass; max o’fit length: 8mtrs; ideal for families; wc (exc); shwr (exc); dog walk fr site; fr £15 (pitch + all occ).
IMPORTANT: Nightly fees may differ from those published in the Directory due to a change of facilities or ownership. It is therefore essential to confirm current fees when enquiring or making a booking. Not all CLs accompanied by a pub symbol in the Directory are located on the site of a public house – some are near to a pub (up to three miles away), so please check with the owner before visiting.
544 SOUTHEND-ON-SEA – Shopland Hall Equestrian Centre. New tel: 07855 772868; new email: jennymurrell46@gmail.com.
1545 SOLIHULL – Gate Farm. New tel: 01676 545494.
February 2021 Magazine STIRLING – Underwood Caravan Park. New email: sandy_blair @live.co.uk.
ENGLAND
WALES
Conwy By member Martin Peat
Your chance to have your say. The writer of our Star Letter will receive a £30 National Trust Gift Card
STAR LETTER
ABBEY DAYS
We recently had the pleasure of staying at the Abbey Wood Club Campsite. My son and daughter-in-law stayed in a glamping pod, and the site staff were very helpful in finding us a pitch for our motorhome straight opposite.
We had a concert at the Albert Hall booked, and after a 10-minute walk and half-an-hour ride on the new Elizabeth Line train we were there! The site is beautiful and you would never guess you were so near to the capital. There was lots of wildlife around – foxes, birds and this cheeky chappy who made me burst out laughing.
Proud pooch
Send your letters to: magazine@camc.com
Members can save 8% on National Trust Gift Cards, which can be redeemed in National Trust cafés and shops, in the Trust’s online shop and towards gift membership packs. See camc.com/nationaltrust for more information.
PERFECT PREP
For 30 odd years I have sat in the passenger seat – my job, navigation. Recently, it crossed my mind – “What would happen if I had to drive and tow?”
We were sorry to leave and will most certainly be back. Linda Monaghan, via email
Editor’s note: Glad you had such an enjoyable trip. Members and their friends and family can save 10% on glamping breaks – find out more at camc.com/experiencefreedom.
A fond farewell
Reluctantly, my wife and I are having to say goodbye to the Club
fortunate we feel to have met so many, many lovely people along the way. This truly has been a hobby of our lifetime that has enhanced so many avenues we
would not have explored otherwise. A special reason for writing today is to once again thank Mandy at Trewethett Farm for coming to help in our hour of need.
George and Audrey Dunk, West Midlands
Just wanted to say a big thank you for publishing (Hearing Dog in training) Pasha’s photo in the August edition of the Club magazine. Thought you might like to see a picture of him checking it out !
June Scatchard, via email
I booked myself onto our local Caravan and Motorhome Club caravan manoeuvring course and towed the course caravan through fiendishly placed cones, attempted reversing alongside the kerb and round a corner. (These latter skills – room for improvement).
Little did I know that in less than four weeks after attending the course, I would have to tow our van home – my husband was unwell and unable to safely drive. Extra pressure – we had just changed our towcar and it was its first time of towing!
My grateful thanks to our course tutor, Kevin, for his patience in guiding me through the day. New car, caravan, hubby and myself, all safe at home.
Lesley Lagden, via email
Editor’s note: Well done Lesley – I hope your husband is feeling better. Members interested in attending one of our caravan or motorhome training courses should visit camc.com/training.
High Power Monocular Telescope
Pressplay is proud to o er this magni cent high powered precision telescope representing excellent value for money at the introductory price of just £29.95. Enter a world of discovery that none of us thought possible - being only served by Nasa, International Space Stations and Jodrell Bank. The ability to magnify up to 300 times may only have been possible with a telescope but now you can take photographs of what you are viewing , save them to your smart phone library and share with family and friends. The quality of our telescope is impressive with soft touch feel and a focusing dial that is positioned so you can easily view and focus with one hand. The pure optical precision lens is fully coated for maximum performance. Spectacle wearers will be pleased to use the spiral eye mask designed for comfortable viewing.
The Pressplay Telescope comes complete with viewing and eyepiece covers, lens cleaning cloth, a soft protective pouch and a neck lanyard. The telescope is very light and takes up minimum space when travelling or out and about. Connect the Smart Phone adapter and see and photograph things so far away and be amazed!
WILDLIFE
SUNDANCE SOJOURNS
We are still camping while celebrating our 62nd wedding anniversary!
Husband Pete’s first camp was with his scout group in 1949. In the mid to late 1950s we had family holidays with our parents in an ex-army bell tent, then a pre-war ridge tent and a home-built caravan.
After having our own family we bought a spacious family tent and camped in Kent and Norfolk. When Pete retired in 1998 we bought a second-hand Compass Drifter motorhome, and in 2009 we replaced it with our lovely new Swift Sundance 590RS. In both we have used
Club sites in all four corners of the UK, and many sites inland. Our four older grandchildren have enjoyed holidays with us in the Sundance – not all at the same time! – and our fifth grandchild, a girl of three, loves to pay us a visit for dinners, and to investigate all the interesting ‘things’ we have accumulated over the years!
Beryl Graves, via email
Editor’s note: Many congratulations Beryl and Pete. Glad the younger generation is getting the chance to explore the country with you too!
The middle of everywhere
I have just returned from a stay at Modbury Club Campsite and was surprised to see how quiet it was for the time of year – third week of July.
This shocked me as it is an extremely well kept site with facilities for all. So I was wondering why this site may have been so quiet
We wanted to explore local coves, smaller beaches, coastal walks, Dartmoor and follow and swim in the River Dart. All of which are within a short distance of the site. If you want the more popular destinations of Salcombe, Dartmouth or Plymouth these are also not too far away. So I say to all members, have a look at Modbury site, it has lots to offer on site and all around it.
Ian and Jackie Woodvine
BREAM DREAM
I very much enjoyed reading the article by Jonathan Manning in the August issue on England’s North-East. My wife and I have just returned from one of the sites mentioned – River Breamish – and I am pleased to say we were able to visit many of the places recommended. A wonderful area and well worth spending time there.
One place Jonathan didn’t mention in his wide-ranging, whirlwind tour, was the National Trust property and estate at Wallington near Morpeth.
A very interesting house and beautiful gardens and could easily be added to the list of
places of interest. I attach a few photos from our visit, a couple of which David Chapman may approve of after his informative article also in this month’s magazine [about photographing gardens]. Thanks to all for your work on the magazine –something to look forward to at the end of each month. Eric Ness , via email
To the rescue
My wife and I have just returned from a visit to Brittany. When we attempted to start our car one day, the display greeted us with numerous warning lights and no response from the engine. We were stuck miles from any garage.
I rang the Club’s Red Pennant breakdown service and what followed was support of the highest level. The predicament was immediately taken from me. Initially, no garage was available to diagnose the problem so a hire car was organised and a taxi to take me to collect it.
A week passed before a garage was available but I was able to retain the hire vehicle.
Our car was taken to a dealer in Carhaix where it was repaired after two days. A taxi was again booked to enable me to return the hire vehicle and then go on to the garage to collect our car. The service and kind support was exemplary and although the people in the department modestly told me that it was their job, such help is to be commended.
Malcolm C Wright MBE, via email
Your mag needs you!
We would love to hear about your previous adventures and plans for the future!
Please email us at magazine@camc.com .
CAPITAL IDEAS
Having lived in Edinburgh a number of years ago, we wanted to catch up with old friends. We booked the Club site for three nights and were so impressed we extended our stay.
shops and gardens.
The site is lovely, of the usual high standards, and offers free, lockable storage for bikes which we thought was excellent. It is difficult to believe you’re in a city. There is a local bus service, which is extremely efficient. Also available is a minibus service from the site at a small cost.
Consequently we did not need to move our motorhome for the entire stay and easily visited local tourist attractions including: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, the
Just a short walk/cycle away is a super shared coastal path along the Firth of the Forth, offering great views of the Forth Road and Rail bridges.
In one direction it meets the River Almond at Cramond; an old fishing village with a nice pub and a beach.
There is a walk along a causeway to a small island but this is subject to the tides. In the other direction you reach the city.
Thank you to all the staff at the Edinburgh Club Site. We enjoyed our stay and will certainly be back.
Lynda
Marenghi, via email
DREAM COME TRUE
I am writing to thank the Caravan and Motorhome Club for helping me to make a dream come true this summer.
Like many keen cyclists, I have long wanted to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats, and after suffering with antenatal depression during my second pregnancy last year, I decided to set myself the challenge of completing the ride before the end of my maternity leave.
However, 14 days away from home was not really an option for a mummy of a baby and three-year-old. I was ready to abandon the idea but my husband suggested renting a campervan and following me across the country with the two little ones – a huge commitment given that neither of us had ever really camped before.
Joining the Club allowed us to book friendly, accessible and convenient campsites the whole length of the country, providing peace of mind and support for us novice caravanners. Without your Club I don’t think we would have managed the logistics! We raised a whopping £1,700 for Wellbeing of Women, I cycled 960 miles in 14 days and we also enjoyed the family adventure of a lifetime. Thank you so much! Miranda and Tim Fowler, via email
Behind us all the way...
Caravan and motorhome manufacturer Bailey is extremely proud of its long association with the Club’s Towcar of the Year competition
As the UK’s premier event of its type, this competition not only supplies caravan owners with important information on potential new towcars, but also provides a practical examination of Bailey’s product performance.
In addition to supplying the caravans used in the competition, the Bristol-based manufacturer fields a technical support team, which includes representatives from chassis manufacturer Al-Ko Kober, to work at the event.
During the exhaustive four-day test, the caravans are taken on several hundred circuits of
the Millbrook Proving Ground, consisting of many laps of the high-speed circular track and demanding hill route. Throughout this period, Bailey ensures that its caravans remain in a road-safe condition and that each unit is correctly matched to the relevant tow vehicle.
Working at Millbrook, Bailey has first-hand experience of the lengths to which the Caravan and Motorhome Club goes to ensure that each car entered in the competition is examined thoroughly and fairly. From the initial scrutineering, through the outfit preparation
stages, assessment of ‘caravanability’ and on to the actual driving/towing itself, every aspect of performance is tested rigorously to arrive at the final result.
Simon Howard, Marketing Director of Bailey of Bristol, said: “We have really enjoyed playing our part in this prestigious event over the past two decades. The collective effort which goes into ensuring every entrant is tested both thoroughly and fairly during the competition makes this the definitive guide for a potential new towcar purchase.”
Royal Botanic Garden, Princes Street
Edinburgh Club Site
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RULES
1
L’Isle Verte (Club ref: L34)
Perched on the banks of the Loire, this campsite offers lovely views and a peaceful stay for people of all ages and abilities.
Pitches: 116
Accessibility
Good smooth paths, sloping ramps and dedicated facilities make this site easy for people with reduced mobility to navigate. There is direct access onto the cycle path that runs along the river, which provides a great wheelchair-accessible stroll.
Nearby
The village of Montsoreau boasts a selection of cafes and bakeries, and hosts a muchloved flea market every second Sunday of the month. Saumur – which straddles the Loire and is home to the Château de Saumur – is a short drive or ride along the cycle path away.
Scan here to book a pitch
Soon enough, we arrived at L’Isle Verte, a relaxed site nestled on the south shore of the Loire river. We made the most of the warm evening with a stroll around the site, and found a gate that led us straight down to the water. At 634 miles, the Loire is the longest river PLEASE
Lure of the Loire
From magnificent châteaux to spellbinding river views and atmospheric caves, Karla Baker experiences the beauty of the Loire Valley
Famous for its castles, vineyards and picturesque cities, it’s easy to see why the Loire Valley attracts visitors from all over the world. Located in the heart of France and steeped in history and culture, it’s a particularly great area for caravanners and motorhomers to explore, and the region’s mostly flat landscape makes it perfect for wheelchair users too. After a few years without a foreign holiday, my partner Stephen and I couldn’t wait to go and explore it for ourselves. The excitement began with the planning stages. The Club’s overseas travel service made booking a breeze, helping us choose campsites with the best accessibility ratings, arranging our crossing, and ensuring that we had suitable Red Pennant European
breakdown and travel insurance should anything untoward happen during our trip. Everything was taken care of, so all that was left to do was hitch up our caravan and go.
Having spent the night at Black Horse Farm Club Campsite, we had a short drive to the Eurotunnel terminal at Folkestone. This proved to be a very quick and easy way to cross the Channel, and a mere 35 minutes after departure (and without having to leave the car), we were cruising down the open French motorways towards our first campsite.
Château de Chenonceau
solely in France, its towpaths providing endless opportunities for scenic (and accessible!) walks and bike rides. Although the sun was beginning to set, we couldn’t resist exploring just a small section of the path, looking out to Château de Montsoreau, which was lit with a golden glow. Just what we needed after the long drive!
Awoken by birdsong the next day, we spent the morning recuperating on site and catching up on errands before heading to the town of Saumur, a short drive away. Featuring white stone and dark, pointed turrets, the fairytalelike Château de Saumur popped against the bright blue sky, standing tall above the Loire
and reflecting in its gleaming surface. We knew this would be the first of many such moments in this spellbinding region.
Following the river east, the next day we took a leisurely drive to our next stop, L’Orangerie de Beauregard. We made our way onto the campsite down a long driveway neatly lined with trees, and pitched ourselves under nature’s own parasol – a gigantic 160-year-old oak tree – for which we would be thankful during the heatwave that was to come.
As it was still early in the day, we headed to the grand Château de Villandry. The uneven cobblestones on the entrance path made it a
L’Orangerie de Beauregard (Club ref: L33)
A friendly campsite, boasting a wide range of amenities, including the unique Orangerie poolside bar. Weekly wine tasting in high season.
Pitches: 150
Accessibility
Accessibility is excellent. There’s level access to all areas, and dedicated shower and toilet facilities for guests with mobility needs. The swimming pool has been thoughtfully designed with ramped entry, and a wheelchair is available for use. A holiday cottage, equipped with a hoist, profiling bed and wet room, is also available to rent.
Nearby
The village of Villedômer is within walking distance, and the historic city of Tours just a short drive away. Here you will find the gothic Cathedral of Saint Gatianus, with its vibrant stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
Scan here to book a pitch at
Château de Chambord
A home carved from stone
Aboard on the Cher
3
Les Saules (Club ref: L01)
This family-run site has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the plentiful trees giving it a very natural feel.
Pitches: 164
Accessibility
Accessibility is excellent. This campsite goes the extra mile, with level access to all areas, dedicated spacious shower cubicles and a separate entrance for wheelchair users (avoiding the foot bath) to the swimming pool. The pool also has a chair lift.
Nearby
This campsite is within easy reach of many of the Loire’s magnificent châteaux, including the world-renowned Château de Chambord. You can also explore the picturesque city of Blois and take a mouthwatering tour of the Chocolaterie Max Vauché.
Scan here to book a pitch at Camping Les Saules
bumpy ride as a wheelchair user, but once inside we were able to easily explore the luxurious rooms on the ground floor, before making our way outside for the pièce de resistance: the gardens! They were set out in perfectly manicured squares, with each section home to an array of plants, from brightly-hued blooms to subdued greens, to a banquet of fruits, vegetables and herbs fit for royalty. There was so much to see, with magenta climbing roses adding to the romance.
GOING UNDERGROUND
As fascinating as it was to see how the richest in society lived, a visit to the Loire Valley isn’t complete without experiencing the opposite end of the spectrum too. The Troglodytic Valley of Goupillières showcases exactly what life would have been like for 90% of the population up until the 19th century. While lords and ladies could afford the luxury of a château, the majority lived communally as peasants in underground worlds.
As we wandered around a series of restored farms, we felt like we’d been transported back 500 years. Possessing little more than their physical strength, people carved their homes into the limestone that was dug out to build the many châteaus surrounding the area. Every blow from their pickaxes is still etched into the walls. It was such a contrast to the grandeur that we had witnessed just 24 hours earlier, but very poignant, and no less fascinating. Crossing the Loire once more, we made our way to our final campsite, Les Saules, and pitched up in the woodland. From there, we made the 25-minute drive to one of the most well-known châteaus in the world, Chambord, famous for its renaissance architecture and double helix staircase inspired by Leonardo
da Vinci. Despite the scaffolding that had been erected around the towers, the magnificence of Chambord was still unquestionable. We spent a while just absorbing the views, in awe of the immaculately preserved stonework, before making our way inside. With smooth ramps between levels, we could freely explore the ground floor, the scent of ancient wood fires lingering in the great hall.
As the sun began to set on our trip, we had one last château to visit – but this time, from a different perspective. Boarding the wheelchairaccessible L’Ambacia boat, we sailed peacefully down the Cher River, watching the reeds being gently tugged by the water. The Château de Chenonceau soon came into view, and we gracefully drifted underneath its elegant stone arches – a magical end to a memorable trip.
If Karla has inspired you to visit this region, head to camc.com/overseas to book these campsites and more. Remember, if you book an overseas site, Eurotunnel or ferry crossing through the Club you’ll get the best price –guaranteed! To find out more see camc.com/ pricematch. And if you combine your crossing with a campsite stay you benefit from package travel protection – see camc.com/ overseaspackages.
Note: at the time of going to press, most French regions were under some level of drought warning and members should check the local restrictions with their campsite on arrival.
ROCKY ROADS
Why not treat yourself to an escorted motorhome adventure in spellbinding Canada?
THE CANADIAN ROCKIES
Pristine lakes, icy peaks and mesmerising wildlife await you on the Club’s escorted tours of the Canadian Rockies in 2023.
Your epic adventure (overseen by experienced local tour leaders) begins in Calgary, where you’ll find cool restaurants, a vibrant music scene and the iconic Calgary Tower. After picking up your motorhome you’ll set off for beautiful Banff National Park in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Here you can see Lake Minnewanka and Johnston Canyon, where the creek has cut through the limestone to form impressive pools, waterfalls and tunnels. Another option is a gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Days 6 and 7 are filled with magnificent views of lakes, glaciers, forests and hills on your journey along the famed Icefields Parkway towards Jasper – keep an eye out for deer and black bears along the way! Be sure to take in the famous Peyto Lake – and what about embarking on a glacier tour on the Columbia Icefield?
More wildlife-spotting is in store as you leave the province of Alberta for
Wells Gray Provincial Park in British Columbia – renowned for its black bears, grizzlies, moose, wolves and cougars.
We recommend visits to Dawson Falls and Helmcken Falls, both of which plunge into beautiful, mist-filled gorges.
Next up is Sun Peaks. Famous as a ski area, it is equally impressive in summer, boasting opportunities for go-karting, mountain biking, horse riding and more.
As you approach the mid-point of this magical road trip you reach Cache Creek, where a visit to Historic Hat Creek Ranch gives you a flavour of life during the late 19th-century Gold Rush.
Next, we suggest a stop in the remarkable Joffre Lakes Provincial Park (where minerals in the water give the lakes a remarkable turquoise hue) on your way to Whistler. Here, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola offers beguiling views, while you could also opt for a ride in a seaplane.
It’s then on to Vancouver, pausing to admire Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. You’ll have a full day to explore this extraordinary coastal city, where a trip to Stanley Park should be high on the agenda.
Heading once again for Alberta, you can visit the wineries or orchards of the glorious Okanagan Valley, before Mount Revelstoke, Glacier and Kootenay
National Parks offer further feasts for the senses. As you return the keys in Calgary, take a moment to reflect on this most magical of adventures.
Wherever you want to visit we'll support you every mile of the way. We offer free cancellations* if the FCDO advise against travel to your destination and have ABTA and ATOL bonded financial protection, all from the Club that cares. Find out more at camc.com/ wwconfidence
* Covers holiday cancellations in line with FCDO advice. T&Cs apply.
Duration/type: 25 days/escorted motorhome tour
Departures: 23 May 2023 and 5 September 2023
Price: from £4,999pp (for 23 May departure, based on two sharing)
Price includes: outfit hire, return flights, tour leaders, transfers, two nights in a centrally located Calgary hotel, welcome dinner, 21 campsites, barbecue dinner, Fraserway Full preparation fee, and CDW, plus a Discovery Pass.
Moraine Lake
Black bear
British tourists can stay in Europe for 90 days within a 180-day period without the need for a visa. To find
gov.uk, and type
the search box.
WINTER VALUE
Escape the UK cold season and enjoy a great European deal
Whether you fancy travelling independently or as part of a group, the Club can help you enjoy a fantastic overseas break this winter. By booking a site and ferry or Eurotunnel crossing with us, you will benefit from great deals and package travel protection (see camc.com/overseaspackages to find out more).
£12 per night*
Set on the Mar Menor lagoon, in Murcia, Spain, this large, resort-style site is perfect for active holiday lovers.
hosted holidays offer you the chance to unwind in the company of like-minded holidaymakers. Offering great value, you can spend between two and 11 weeks at these campsites between 14 January and 1 April 2023 (stay at just the one site or take a leisurely tour of all three!).
Experienced hosts are on hand with support and guidance, helping you to enjoy a totally stress-free break. Numerous activities will be arranged – you can join in as much or as little as you wish (previous holidays have included barbecues, quiz nights, group meals and boules/mini-golf competitions).
Why not use your break to get fit or learn a new skill? The three sites boast a schedule of classes, which may include yoga, pilates or Spanish lessons, as well as excellent facilities such as indoor pools and gyms, bars and restaurants. Your options are:
A great base for exploring the Costa Blanca, this friendly site near to Alicante offers great facilities and year-round entertainment.
£18 per night^
Boasting a beautiful Algarve location, this site has fantastic facilities (limited availability remaining in March; hosted holiday sold out in January and February). A few pitches are available for independent travellers without access to the hosted activities.
We have over 70 campsites across Europe ready to welcome you this winter, including 40 in Spain and Portugal. Whether you want to pitch up near the Spanish Costas or enjoy a city break in Europe, our choice of campsites offers something for everyone. Remember we also have en-route options in Spain and France to
help you break up your journey. Here is one example of a great winter site (with special rates for long holidays):
Cabopino, Spain (Club ref: E21) from £14.24 per night^^
Visit camc.com/wintersun to see the full list of campsites that are open all year.
*Price based on stays of 61 nights or more, two people and electricity up to 6kw/day.
**Price based on stays of 61 nights or more for two people, electricity not included.
^Price based on 31 nights or more, two people and 10A electricity included.
^^Price based on stays of 30 nights or more, two people and electricity from 11 Sep-31 Dec 2022.
For terms and conditions please visit camc.com/overseas-holidays/ holiday-ideas/winter-holidays
If you book an overseas site, Eurotunnel or ferry crossing through the Club you’ll get the best price –guaranteed! To see camc.com/ pricematch And your crossing travel protection – see camc.com/ overseaspackages Red Pennant emergency assistance protects you and your vehicle while touring Europe. See camc.com/ redpennant
Christmas Markets –Escorted Tour
Explore the magical Christmas markets of Cologne and Aachen in Germany and Valkenburg in the Netherlands. These world-famous markets are full to the brim with fantastic gifts and festive delights. The tour departs on 12 December 2022, with prices from £579 for an outfit plus two people. Visit camc.com/ overseas
Cabopino, Spain Club ref: E21
Mrs Petty
Judith Blackhurst
Mrs Petty
YOUR CLUB SAVINGS
MEMBERS SAVED MORE THAN £3.8 MILLION DURING 2021
October is traditionally Tyre Safety Month (find out more at tyresafe.org) – so now is the perfect time to check that the wheels on your car, caravan or motorhome are up to scratch. This month we present a selection of member offers and Club Shop discounts related to tyres, safety and keeping your vehicle in top condition...
National Tyres and Autocare – which boasts more than 235 centres across the UK – is offering members a 5% discount on all online tyre prices from top brands including Bridgestone, Pirelli, Dunlop, Continental, Goodyear and Michelin.
National Tyres and Autocare also provides customers with the following benefits:
Save £14.86* on an MOT Class 4 car and van tests undertaken by highly trained testers are available at more than 100 participating branches.
COVER AND INSURANCE
Save up to £34.85** on a combined service and MOT Book an interim or full service along with an MOT for a Class 4 car or van and save up to £34.85. Available at over 100 participating branches.
Find out more by visiting camc.com/nationaltyres
*MOT saving based on standard DVSA price of £54.85.
**Combi service discount based on the DVSA MOT price of £54.85.
If you complete one of our caravan or motorhome training courses, you’ll automatically qualify for a 5% discount on Club cover or insurance*. Covering everything from basic safety checks to more complicated manoeuvring, our expert-run courses are designed for newcomers to the pastime as well as seasoned tourers. Find out more at camc.com/courses
*Available on the Club’s Caravan Cover when completing the Accredited Trailer Training Course; and on Caravan Cover, Motorhome, Campervan and Car Insurance when taking all other courses. Valid for new policies/cover or at next renewal of an existing policy/cover, upon proof of completion of the course.
TyrePal tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) continuously check your tyres while you are driving and give clear visual and audible alerts should anything start to go wrong. What’s more a TPMS enables you to check your tyres are correctly inflated before you set off – helping you to reduce wear and improve fuel economy. Club members can save 20% (up to £55!) on the cost of a TyrePal system. See camc.com/tyrepal
YOUR MEMBER OFFER STORY...
“We were travelling on a busy single carriageway in County Roscommon, Ireland. The [TyrePal] alarm suddenly went off so I pulled over to investigate. Immediately I could hear air escaping the rear offside and the monitor told me the pressure had dropped from 65 to 40 psi. As there was heavy traffic we made ground to the safety of a parking space in front of a pub. Within minutes the tyre was completely flat... The bottom line is, the device certainly saved us from having to deal with a flat in the middle of the road or worse maybe, a shredded tyre.”
J D Wilson, Club member
If you have saved via our offers we would love to hear from you! Please send us your story and/or image to memberoffers@camc.com
Terms and conditions apply to all Member Offers and Club Shop purchases – see camc.com/ memberoffers and shop.camc.com for details
WSL TORQUE WRENCH
Caravanners know the importance of correctly tightened wheel bolts. The WSL Torque Wrench is designed to deliver a precise amount of torque and help prevent dangerous wheel detachments. Member save 10% on the full price of £63.99 at Club Shop (shop.camc.com).
RESQ FLAT TYRE REPAIR KIT FOR MOTORHOMES
Comprising a 12V tyre compressor and 450ml particle gel tyre sealant bottle, this kit is designed to get you off the verge or hard shoulder as quickly as possible and to the nearest garage. Ideal for repairing punctures on all makes of small to medium-size vehicles. See shop.camc.com
RING DIGITAL TYRE AND TREAD GAUGE
Designed to help you keep your car and caravan road-legal, this device from Ring Automotive measures tyre pressures and tread depths. It features a rotating nozzle for easy access, an LED light for finding valves (and dropped dust caps!) in the dark, and an easy-to-read illuminated LCD screen. See shop.camc.com information.
The highly visible directional arrows on these caravan wheel nut indicators (10 x 19mm) help you see immediately if a wheel bolt has worked loose. Especially designed for alloy wheels. Fit all Al-Ko or BPW standard wheel bolts. See shop.camc.com
MILENCO STACKA TYRE SAVERS TWIN PACK
Prolong the life of your tyres and prevent sinking on soft ground with a pair of Milenco Tyre Savers. The Tyre Savers’ curved surfaces cup your wheels to stop your tyres from settling into a flattened shape, helping prevent hazardous flat spots from developing. Suitable for all motorhomes and caravans. Capacity 1,500kg per wheel. See shop.camc.com for more information.
*Members can save up to 10% on over 3,000 products at Club Shop – from touring essentials to parts and accessories. Visit shop.camc.com and use promo code CS-0218-PRIMA.
IMPORTANT
Tyres and wheels are safety-critical. Please ensure any tyre related products are correctly fitted and, if in doubt, consult with your local certified and accredited workshop.
Members have saved over £11 million via Member Offers and Club Shop since 2018. Here are just a few examples of the fantastic deals available to you. Visit camc.com/memberoffers and shop.camc.com to find out more...
Savings and offers correct at time of publication and are subject to change
CARS RATED INSIDE
Our experts assess entries in six weight classes
KAROQ STAR
Škoda’s revamped SUV secures trio of victories
40th staging of the industry’s premier towcar competition Supplement sponsored by Bailey of Bristol
KAROQ STAR
The all-singing, all-dancing Skoda Karoq emerged from the shadows to take the overall Towcar of the Year crown
SPONSOR MESSAGE
BEHIND US ALL THE WAY...
Caravan and motorhome manufacturer Bailey is extremely proud of its long association with the Club’s Towcar of the Year competition
As the UK’s premier event of its type, this competition not only supplies caravan owners with important information on potential new towcars, but also provides a practical examination of Bailey’s product performance.
In addition to supplying the caravans used in the competition, the Bristol-based manufacturer fields a technical support team, which includes representatives from chassis manufacturer Al-Ko Kober, to work at the event.
During the exhaustive four-day test, the caravans are taken on several hundred circuits of
the Millbrook Proving Ground, consisting of many laps of the high-speed circular track and demanding hill route. Throughout this period, Bailey ensures that its caravans remain in a road-safe condition and that each unit is correctly matched to the relevant tow vehicle.
Working at Millbrook, Bailey has first-hand experience of the lengths to which the Caravan and Motorhome Club goes to ensure that each car entered in the competition is examined thoroughly and fairly. From the initial scrutineering, through the outfit preparation
stages, assessment of ‘caravanability’ and on to the actual driving/towing itself, every aspect of performance is tested rigorously to arrive at the final result.
Simon Howard, Marketing Director of Bailey of Bristol, said: “We have really enjoyed playing our part in this prestigious event over the past two decades. The collective effort which goes into ensuring every entrant is tested both thoroughly and fairly during the competition makes this the definitive guide for a potential new towcar purchase.”
The Škoda Karoq has long been a favourite with families looking for a practical and capable SUV, yet it had never registered significant success in the Club’s Towcar of the Year competition. However, in the 2023 edition, the recently refreshed model – complete with new styling and technology, and a 2.0-litre diesel engine with four-wheel drive – claimed Class and Category victories as well as the overall title. This year’s event was notable for the number of electric cars competing, and the EVs performed well against established petrol and diesel offerings. Meanwhile, SUVs lined
up against estates and pick-ups, and even a traditional MPV was fielded.
As always, awards testing took place at the gruelling Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, with 24 cars assessed in weight ‘Classes’ depending on their towing limits. Each caravan was ballasted to 85% of the towcar’s kerbweight (or in accordance with the car’s maximum braked towing limit if that figure was lower) and put through its paces on a circuit that included an alpine-like hill route, five-lane high-speed bowl and braking/acceleration test. The entrants were also rated for visibility
when reversing and practicality in our ‘caravanability’ tests.
Prizes were also presented in the following ‘Categories’: Family Towcars, Large Family Towcars, Plug-in Hybrids and Electric Vehicles. Every one of the cars featured over the following pages has been extensively evaluated. For more information about each model, including technical data, please visit camc.com/towcar.
Note: Due to ongoing supply issues, members are encouraged to check with their local dealer for latest prices and availability of their chosen vehicle prior to visiting.
CLASS 1
Caravan Weight
Under 1,200kg – page 4
CLASS 2
Caravan Weight
1,200-1,300kg – page 5
CLASS 3
Caravan Weight
1,300-1,400kg – page 6
CLASS 4
Caravan Weight
1,400-1,500kg – page 10
CLASS 5
Caravan Weight
1,500-1,700kg – page 12
CLASS 6
Caravan Weight over 1,700kg – page 14
KEY INFORMATION
*Price as assessed including towing equipment and options beneficial to towing.
**Standard model price range.
Class Winner
VOLKSWAGEN
ID.5 STYLE 77 KWH PRO PERFORMANCE 204PS
£52,100*
MODEL RANGE**: £49,735-£58,260
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,000KG
The brand-new ID.5, the coupe version of Volkswagen’s ID.4 SUV,
“ Super-smooth power delivery and effortless torque ”
impressed the judges with its super-smooth power delivery, effortless torque, composed road manners and good stability on slow and fast roads. Despite the car’s sloping roofline, interior space was good and the ID.5’s boot easily accommodated the caravanability judges’ kit.
The car’s published 327-mile range will be more than good enough for most when driving unhitched, but this will drop significantly when towing. Meanwhile, the ID.5’s slightly cheap-feeling interior and clunky infotainment system disappointed a little.
recommended towing towing limit – whichever figure is lower. SEAT
Last year’s winner of both this class and the overall Towcar of the Year gong disappointed in the 2023 competition. Despite having well-placed ratios, the gearbox felt clunky and the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine lacked torque in fourth and fifth gears. Nonetheless, the Leon’s large boot, sharp steering and an agile chassis impressed.
Class Winner
ŠKODA
ENYAQ IV 80X SPORTLINE
£48,375*
MODEL RANGE**: £38,480-£51,275
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,200KG
This was one of the most interesting classes this year, boasting mild-hybrid petrol, full-hybrid, diesel and fully electric competitors – and it was the EV that triumphed. The Enyaq iV offers a masterclass in current EV
technology, exhibiting a smooth and ultra-refined character when towing. An additional electric motor on the front axle makes the 80x four-wheel drive, and the extra traction while hitched helped both on twistier roads and the hill start. At high speeds the Enyaq iV 80x is unflustered, there’s a massive boot and the interior quality is top-notch. The published 318-mile range will drop considerably when towing, though.
FORD
FOCUS ACTIVE VIGNALE
ESTATE 1.0L ECOBOOST
155PS MHEV
£33,450*
MODEL RANGE**: £25,910 -£37,710
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,233KG
Refreshed for 2022, the latest Ford Focus Estate showed it still had plenty of life in it. Judges across the board were bowled over by the breadth of ability, the caravanability judges remarking that the car’s
HYUNDAI
KONA HYBRID ULTIMATE 1.6
GDI 141PS 6 SPEED DCT
£29,210*
MODEL RANGE**: £24,315-£29,615
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,233KG
The Hyundai KONA Hybrid has all the qualities required of a decent small towcar – efficient hybrid powertrain, punchy performance, smooth six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, and a higher driving position
than a traditional supermini. It makes for a relatively relaxed experience when driving unhitched, with good fuel economy, but it’s a different story when hitched. The KONA seemed overwhelmed on the steep sections of our test course, with signs of strain on the DCT gearbox and engine – it felt rather frantic at times. The additional electric power from the hybrid system made light work of the hill start, though.
VOLKSWAGEN
T-ROC STYLE 2.0 -LITRE TDI
150PS 7SPD DSG
£35,325*
MODEL RANGE**: £24,810 -£41,750
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,237KG
Following a recent refresh of style and technology, Volkswagen’s popular T-Roc was expected to perform strongly in this class. Despite having the same mechanical set-up as many of the cars in this year’s competition, the T-Roc felt decidedly sporty,
with firm suspension and an agile chassis, which makes for a pretty fun-to-drive SUV when unhitched. The 2.0-litre TDI diesel is still a top performer, but that firm suspension made handling when towing on the twistier parts of the test route slightly skittish. Four-wheel drive would be desirable too, as the T-Roc’s wheels spun on the hill start. Interior refinement was disappointing, with high levels of road noise evident.
boot was so large there was room to spare. It was in the driving department where the Focus really shone, though, with the tiny 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine impressing. Punchy performance was on tap throughout the rev range, and the car was a good match for the caravan, showing off tremendous stability at all speeds. The trademark agile chassis and sharp, communicative steering was merely the icing on the cake.
Class Winner
VOLKSWAGEN
GOLF ESTATE ALLTRACK
2.0 -LITRE TDI 4MOTION 200PS
7SPD DSG
£39,425*
MODEL RANGE**: £26,690 -£44,535
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,359KG
The Mk8 Golf continues its strong performance in Towcar of the Year. Last time around it was the hatchback in R-Line 2.0-litre TDI form that triumphed in the 1,200-1,300kg class; this year its larger sibling took the spoils in a higher weight class. Judges across the board were impressed by the car’s practical boot, great rear visibility and competent driving manners. The 2.0 TDI, here with 197bhp, is a great engine for towing, with bundles of torque, and the seven-speed DSG automatic box shifts smoothly. The Alltrack gets a 15mm increase in ride height, chunkier bumpers and four-wheel drive as standard which makes for comfortable and relaxed progress. The only gripes revolved around build quality, a slightly clunky infotainment system and a lack of physical heating controls.
“ Combined petrol and electric power gave strong acceleration ”
HYUNDAI
TUCSON PREMIUM 1.6 T- GDI
265PS PLUG -IN HYBRID 6
SPD AUTO
£41,680*
MODEL RANGE**:
£29,140 -£43,880
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,350KG
One of the newest family-sized SUVs in this year’s competition, and it wears its sharp styling and minimalist interior well. This is the plug-in hybrid version, which has a combined 261bhp, four-wheel drive and can travel up to 38 miles on electricity alone. It made for a
decent towcar, with judges feeling the combined petrol and electric power gave strong acceleration. Stability was good and, when ‘Sport’ mode was selected, the Tucson felt pretty entertaining to drive; in ‘Eco’ mode the car neatly prioritises EV power, too. Negative marks were for a hesitant gearbox in ‘Eco’ mode and longer brake pedal travel than expected under heavier braking. Once the batteries were drained of electric, the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol felt a little bereft of punch when hitched.
“ The CVT gearbox is surprisingly polished ”
MEET THE TEAM
Selected from the world of motoring and caravanning journalism, our experienced judges put the towcar entries through their paces at the
Lee Davey – a road tester for numerous motoring titles, Lee raced nationally before switching to caravanning. He has towed in over 30 countries.
Technical judges –Greg Potter and Deborah Black from the Club’s Events Committee measured the cars’ acceleration and braking capabilities using specialised apparatus
QASHQAI TEKNA+
£36,856* MODEL RANGE**: £26,045-£40,980 CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,329KG
A caravanning favourite, the Nissan Qashqai won this class last year, however competition was fierce this time round. When it first arrived in 2007, the Qashqai essentially created the blueprint that all other family SUVs have followed; this latest iteration is still a good, all-round towcar. We liked the large boot (which took all of our kit with ease) and the interior is finished to a high standard with plenty of soft leathers and plastics. It’s also much quieter and more refined than the previous model and the CVT gearbox with its fake ‘steps’ is surprisingly polished. Other cars in this class this year highlighted some of the Qashqai’s weaker points, namely sluggish motorway acceleration, floaty body control when hitched and firm suspension.
Caroline and Keith Rogers spend hours checking whether each car will accommodate a typical caravanner’s kit, as well as access to such things as spare wheels, towing electrics and technical information.
Mark Sutcliffe – a regular Towcar judge and former editor of Which Caravan
James Batchelor – freelance journalist, experienced road tester and presenter; James was previously on Auto Express
Chris Rosamond –representing Auto Express, Chris is an experienced national motoring journalist.
Dan Cartwright – a passionate caravan advocate since 1989, Dan founded Caravan Times in 2010 and is its chief car tester.
Behind the scenes
Towcar of the Year is a tightly run operation – here’s a taster of what goes on during the course of four gruelling days...
Clockwise from right: the cars are delivered; each caravan is ballasted correctly; judges Keith and Caroline Rogers at work; checking noseweights; out on the Millbrook circuit
Power points
Club Technical Manager
Martin Spencer comments on trends in the towing and general car markets
We had a really diverse entry list this year – petrol, diesel, mild, full and plug-in hybrids plus fully electric towcars. The fantastic news is that all are viable towcars; the challenge is they all have pros and cons. The pace of improvement in EVs is impressive. While even the best are still most suited to relatively short-range towing (100-150 miles perhaps), their towing capability is tremendous. Arguably, the biggest issue now is the charging infrastructure when towing, not the capabilities of the best cars
themselves. Around 14% of new cars sold this year have been EVs – I can foresee an electric overall Towcar of the Year winner before too long... Hybrids in their various forms can make a good petrol or diesel towcar better still, improving efficiency and/or performance. They’re a compromise, though, adding complexity and
weight, with even the best only offering modest electric-only range. As a transitional choice before the arrival of an EV that you’re confident will fully meet your needs, however, they’re great. It's perhaps not surprising that over a third of new cars sold this year have been hybrids of some form.
In the mainstream car market, petrol cars (44% of new sales) now vastly outsell diesels (under 6% of new sales). Our sector’s not the mainstream, though, and for towing, diesel still offers desirable characteristics in terms of performance and economy. How much longer diesel will continue to be a viable choice for a new car is questionable, however. From 2024 on, the Government plans to force manufacturers to sell an increasing proportion of cars with ‘significant zero-emission capability’, until new cars with only conventional petrol or diesel engines are banned from 2030. The demise of diesel is coming, but it’s not (quite) here yet, especially in terms of towing the heaviest caravans or coping with the longest of holiday journeys.
The electric Hyundai Ionic 5 made its Towcar debut
“ When hitched the Karoq is composed and well-mannered ”
ŠKODA
KAROQ SPORTLINE 2.0 TDI
150PS DSG 4X4 SCR
£39,860*
MODEL RANGE**: £26,255-£38,515
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,408KG
The Škoda Karoq wowed our judges, claiming victories not only in this class and the Family Towcar category, but also clinching the overall title of Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2023. Škoda has given the Karoq a makeover for 2022 with more modern
styling, and the list of standard equipment has been overhauled (all models get a digital display for the dials, for instance), helping to keep the family SUV remarkably fresh. When hitched the Karoq is composed and well-mannered. The 2.0-litre diesel engine gives useful
mid-range punch to maintain swift progress, and the four-wheel drive system means there’s plenty of traction at all times. Arguably just as importantly, with its big boot, quality cabin and roomy rear space, this car makes for an excellent unhitched daily driver.
FORD
KUGA ST-LINE X ED 2.5
DURATEC 190PS FHEV CVT
£38,936*
MODEL RANGE**: £29,755-£40,155
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,446KG
The Ford Kuga FHEV (full hybrid electric vehicle) proved a solid performer. The Kuga now only comes in petrol, full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid guises –interestingly, the diesel was our Family Towcar winner last year, which shows you how quickly things change in the car business. This is a practical SUV with handy sliding and reclining rear seats, a decent-sized boot and easy-to-use tech. What’s more, it handles neatly. However, the 2.5-litre petrol-hybrid powertrain is a little disappointing – it’s a bit bereft of torque, meaning acceleration is slightly sluggish.
MAZDA
CX-5 2.5 194PS GT SPORT AWD
AUTO
£39,726*
MODEL RANGE**: £29,245-£40,505
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,475KG
For the most part the CX-5 is Mazda at its very best – attractive styling and a comfortable, well-made interior that’s boosted by intuitive tech. The fact that the CX-5 has handling that’s more
“ It really steers and drives with aplomb ”
hatchback than high-riding SUV is just the icing on the cake – it really steers and drives with aplomb. Judges also praised the roomy boot and how it coped with steep hill-starts. However, this CX-5 is let down by its engine, which lacked power. The 2.5-litre petrol has sluggish acceleration when hitched – on the test track’s highest and tightest corner, for example, the CX-5 struggled to get around it in second gear.
VOLKSWAGEN
TIGUAN ALLSPACE LIFE 2.0 TDI
150PS 6SPD MANUAL
£37,740*
MODEL RANGE**: £25,830 -£46,220
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,465KG
While commended for being a decent family car that can double as a tow vehicle, the Tiguan Allspace was criticised for its bouncy ride and notchy six-speed manual gearbox, while the lack of four-wheel drive
A Citroën BX 16 TRS, similar to the first overall Towcar winner, made a visit to Millbrook this year, kindly driven to the event by proud owners Mr and Mrs Bowen.
made the hill starts tricky. The 148bhp (150PS) 2.0-litre diesel was slow to accelerate, the car feeling very sluggish from the entry slip onto the high-speed bowl – a neat scenario of a motorway environment. The Tiguan was marked down last year for its boot, which couldn’t accommodate all our judges’ equipment. But the longer-wheelbase, seven-seater Tiguan Allspace tested this year impressed (in five-seat mode).
PREVIOUS WINNERS
1984 Citroën BX 16 TRS
1985 Volvo 360 GLE
1986 Ford Sierra XR 4x4
1987 Renault 21 GTS
1988 Vauxhall Senator 3.0i CD
1989 Vauxhall Cavalier SRi
1990 Vauxhall Cavalier 4x4 2.0i
1991 Rover 416 GTi 16v
1992 Volvo 940 SE Turbo
1993 Vauxhall Calibra Turbo 4x4
1994 Citroën Xantia 1.9 TD VSX
1995 Renault Laguna RT 2.0
1996 Vauxhall Vectra 2.0i 16v
1997 Peugeot 406 GLX Dt 2.1
1998 Citroën Xantia V6 Exclusive
1999 Audi A6 Avant 2.5 TDi
2000 SEAT Toledo V5
ŠKODA SUPERB ESTATE
SPORTLINE PLUS 2.0 TDI
150PS DSG
£45,220*
MODEL RANGE**:
£29,585-£45,855
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,411KG
The Škoda Superb Estate – a previous Towcar of the Year winner – may have missed out on top spot this time round but it’s a very compelling car, with an enormous boot, plenty of room for passengers, simple-to-use tech, a
comfortable and very well-made interior, and, in this Sportline Plus trim in particular, stylish good looks. Its credentials are boostedby excellent rear visibility when manoeuvring a caravan, easy access to caravan electrics and the fact it remained level when hitched. What let the Superb down was loss of traction on a hill-start – there was plenty of wheel spin on a 17% incline. And the Superb is showing its age perhaps when it comes to handling, feeling just a little loose and floaty.
2021 Škoda Superb Estate SE L Executive 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG
2022 SEAT Leon Estate FR 1.5TSI 150PS
“ An 80% recharge takes just 40 minutes ”
HYUNDAI
IONIQ 5 ULTIMATE 73 KWH
RWD
£47,150*
MODEL RANGE**: £41,650-£56,150
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,600KG
One of the most talked about electric cars to have launched in the past 12 months made its Towcar of the Year debut. Boasting plenty of
interior space, the ultra-cool, sharply-styled Ioniq 5 made for a fine towcar, coping admirably with its caravan. Super smooth and plush driving manners added up to a refined experience. The only niggles were restricted rear visibility (that wedgy styling is to blame) and a handbrake that felt a little weak on the downhill hill-start.
Class Winner
VOLVO
XC40 RECHARGE TWIN
£58,250*
MODEL RANGE**: £45,750-£60,300
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,500KG
The pure-electric XC40 dazzled us last year… and the Swedish SUV has repeated the trick in this year’s competition. Here in dual-motor, all-wheel drive ‘Twin’ form, the XC40 immediately scores well for being an EV with a high towing weight capability. Factor in sparkling acceleration – 0-60mph took just 7.6 seconds when hitched, while 40-60mph took 3.4 seconds – tidy driving dynamics, a roomy and well-laid out interior and a spacious boot, and you can see why it took the class win. An 80% recharge takes just 40 minutes but, just like any other EV, that claimed 259-mile range will fall substantially when towing.
HYUNDAI
SANTA FE ULTIMATE
HYBRID 1.6 T- GDI 6 SPEED
AUTOMATIC 4WD
£48,760*
MODEL RANGE**: £41,445-£49,910
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,650KG
Boasting loads of interior space and plenty of standard equipment, Hyundai’s poshest SUV got off to a flying start. Our caravanability judges noted that access to the spare wheel and tools was a doddle – and luggage
didn’t need to be removed (something that can’t be said for most of the cars in the competition). However, the Santa Fe really fell down in the driving tests with poor acceleration when hitched (despite the hybrid’s extra electric assistance, it took 15.4 seconds to get from 0-60mph) and a gearbox that couldn’t make up its mind at motorway speeds. The ride was particularly hard at low speeds while body control was wallowy at higher velocities.
KIA
SPORTAGE 1.6 T- GDI ‘GT-LINE S’
HEV AUTO AWD
£42,707*
MODEL RANGE**: £27,250 -£44,550
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,522KG
With its all round appeal, the Kia Sportage has long been a caravanner’s favourite. This new, fourth-generation Sportage is the classiest of the lot, with daring styling and an interior that’s packed with the latest technology. And it’s still a great
towcar. It’s easy to get into a good driving position, the front seats are tremendously supportive, there’s decent rear space and the boot is very spacious. It’s not the sportiest of SUVs to drive but it offers good stability at all speeds when hitched. The ride is a touch firm but the car’s hybrid batteries play their part here. The car prioritises EV driving when in ‘Eco’ mode and this works well –notably on the hill start as the electric motor 'fills in' the gap between the vehicle rolling and engine pulling.
“ Astonishingly quick, even when hitched ”
Electric Vehicles Winner
POLESTAR 2
LONG RANGE DUAL MOTOR
£56,800*
MODEL RANGE**: £43,150-£60,700
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,500KG
Polestar impressed during its first ever appearance at Towcar of the Year. Born out of Volvo, Polestar is a standalone Swedish electric performance brand. Under the sleek, hatchback body lies the same platform and components as the all-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge. Its interior
is a delight to sit in, while the Google-based infotainment system is simple to use. With 400bhp, the Polestar 2 is astonishingly quick even when hitched – as evidenced by 7.5 seconds from 0-60mph and 3.3 seconds from 40-60mph – and it’s composed, quiet and razor sharp to drive. The only criticisms were slightly poor rear visibility and the fact that frameless door mirrors meant stick-on towing mirrors had to be used.
SEAT
TARRACO 2.0 TDI FR 200PS
4DRIVE DSG
£43,055*
MODEL RANGE**: £30,785-£44,090
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,612KG
Peel away the SEAT bodywork and underneath you’ll find essentially the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace. Like the Volkswagen, the Tarraco is starting to feel its age just a little. It’s still hugely competent, though, with space for seven in a solidly-built interior – and the combination of the Volkswagen Group’s 197bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel and seven-speed DSG gearbox is just as impressive here as it is in all other applications. For the most part, it’s smooth and refined, but the firm suspension struggled to maintain composure through twisty bends and at motorway speeds.
“ It scored high marks in virtually every area ”
Class Winner
PORSCHE
CAYENNE E-HYBRID 8-SPEED
TIPTRONIC S
£78,713*
MODEL RANGE**: £63,700-£150,500
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,951KG
Porsche entered Towcar of the Year for the first time last year with the Cayenne E-Hybrid 8-speed Tiptronic S and promptly paraded off with a Class win – and it has repeated the feat this year. It scored high marks in virtually every area (including interior comfort,
technology, practicality and boot space), with only rear visibility letting the side down a little. In the driving department there are no surprises as it’s practically flawless. The E-Hybrid uses a 335bhp 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 mated to a 100kW (134bhp) electric motor to give stunning performance. Leave the Cayenne in ‘Hybrid’ mode, and the car smoothly flits between petrol and electric power, while the sharp, well-weighted steering means the big Porsche is never unwieldy.
Large Family Towcar Winner
FORD
RANGER WILDTRAK 2.0 213PS 10 SPEED AUTO
£46,210*
MODEL RANGE**: £30,640£54,940
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,909KG
Despite the advancing years there’s still much to like about the Ranger. Its 2.0-litre 210bhp (213PS) diesel engine feels powerful enough and the 10-speed gearbox is wellmatched. While it has a workmanlike feel, the Ranger is
VOLKSWAGEN
MULTIVAN STYLE
2.0 -LITRE TSI 204PS 7SPD DSG
£59,153*
MODEL RANGE**: £43,720-
£55,510
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,805KG
You might think multi-purpose vehicles – or MPVs – are mightily unfashionable these days. However, Volkswagen still
nicely refined and feels sure-footed at all times – in fact, when hitched, it has better ride comfort and composure than many premium SUVs. The big Ford felt completely in charge of our large twin-axle caravan, and was as adept at being driven around Millbrook’s hill route as it was at cruising around the high-speed bowl. The only gripes were a slightly ‘spongy’ brake pedal feel and the fact the manual handbrake needed a hefty yank to prevent the outfit from rolling backwards on the hill-start.
believes in these most versatile of vehicles and the Multivan is proof of their worth. It replaces both the Sharan and Caravelle and offers van-like space with a car-like driving experience. Our judges all agreed that, for those who simply need bags of space in a towcar, the Multivan can’t be beaten. On the road and hitched-up, the front-wheel drive Multivan was impressively well-mannered.
Plug-in Hybrid Winner
VOLVO
V90 RECHARGE PLUG -IN
HYBRID T6
£63,525*
MODEL RANGE**: £44,725-£68,525
CARAVAN WEIGHT***: 1,782KG
Volvo’s largest estate car was shown up by its smaller V60 sibling last year, but there’s much to like about the V90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid. The big Volvo exhibits some traits shared by its predecessors, such as a slightly
floaty, wallowy ride when hitched, but there’s no doubt it is a supremely comfortable towcar, and therefore primed for long journeys. Performance, thanks to the petrol-electric hybrid set-up, is impressive in a straight-line, and the interior is a masterpiece in style, comfort and intuition; the updated Google-based tech is also very welcome. The V90 gets our Plug-in Hybrid category award on account of its impressive 53-mile pure electric range and polished power system.
Improve your skills with the Club
Lee Davey outlines the towing courses available to newcomers as well as more experienced caravanners
Whether you’ve just bought your first caravan or you’re an experienced tourer looking to improve your towing skills, the Caravan and Motorhome Club has a training course to suit your needs.
Aimed at first-time caravanners, the Practical Caravanning Course shows you how to hitch up and tow safely. Areas covered include easy and confident manoeuvring, curved reversing, loading, routine safety checks and the laws relating to caravanning. The course lasts 10 hours, over 1½ days. At the time of writing, the cost is £194 per person.
Aimed at more experienced caravanners, the shorter Caravan Manoeuvring Course (6½ hours, over a single day) concentrates on straight-line and curved reversing, as well as how to level a caravan. This course costs £164 per person.
I attended an event that included manoeuvring taster sessions from Club course instructors. As the cones were being laid out, Bernie, one of the instructors, asked my wife Helen if she’d like to be a ‘guinea pig’ on the temporary course. My wife had never towed our caravan and had zero experience, but with some useful pointers, she was soon reversing a caravan accurately. Knowledge is power, and although Helen spent less than an hour with the team, it showed how the correct instruction could give you skills that last a lifetime.
WHAT DO YOU NEED?
A driver’s licence. Since 16 December 2021, everyone with a car licence (category B) also has entitlement to drive heavier vehicle and trailer/caravan combinations (category BE) as well. That means you can tow any car/caravan combination that’s legal for use on UK roads with just a standard car licence. If you passed your car test before 1997, you already had this right.
A car fitted with a towball and functional electrics.
Insurance cover for your towing vehicle. You may need to advise your insurer that you intend to tow a caravan. Towing mirrors.
The Club has a training course to suit your needs
WHAT DOES THE CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB PROVIDE?
You don’t need to bring a caravan as one will be provided. The maximum weight of the supplied caravan is 650kg. If you don’t know the allowable towing capacity of your car, the Club’s Technical Advice service can help.
A copy of the Essential Guide to Touring, programme and information sheet about the training centre (advising on local accommodation and caravan sites). Plus, your booking confirmation.
A certificate will be presented when you complete the course.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Further details can be found at camc.com/training
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COVER TO COVER
Left: full covers are ideal for caravans that are stored for long periods of time
Below: leave a caravan out too long and it will turn green!
Using a cover is a great way to keep your leisure vehicle clean and protect it from the elements. Sammy Faircloth helps you choose one...
Each season brings its fair share of problems for our leisure vehicles: sap, pollen and bird mess in spring; dust in summer; leaves in autumn; and leaf rot, moss and algae in winter. That’s without even mentioning the dirt, grime and windscreen-bombarding bugs you accumulate while actually towing. A cover will protect your leisure vehicle from the worst that can be thrown at it, and provide reassurance that, when you next need it, everything will be spick and span.
MATERIAL MATTERS
The cover you choose will depend on your budget and exactly what you need it to do. Basic polythene rooftop covers are great for keeping the rain out. However, polythene is non-breathable and traps in moisture, creating condensation. This could eventually lead to
mould growth inside the caravan. Additionally, the straps that keep such covers attached can rip the polythene in strong winds, potentially leading to exterior scratches. Covers made from a breathable, waterproof, non-abrasive material are a far superior option, but are inevitably more expensive.
TOWING COVERS
Caravans often become spattered with innumerable dead insects during journeys in the spring and summer months while, in winter, salt and dirt are a curse. Of course, loose stone chips and other debris are capable of causing damage at any time of year. A towing cover is easy to fit and protects against most of the above. It simply feeds into the awning rails on either side of the caravan and zips up securely. It is important to make sure that it is a snug fit to reduce the risk of damage.
Manufacturers such as Protec Covers and Specialised Covers sell bespoke products that allow road lights to remain visible and permit easy access to grab handles and front lockers.
MOTORHOME CAB COVERS
The first time I came across motorhome cab covers was in Spain – they can be a great way of protecting the cab from dust, dirt and UV rays in the summer, provide insulation in winter and also offer a bit of extra privacy. Look out for products from companies such as Hindermann and Fiamma.
STORAGE COVERS
If you don't plan to tour all year round, it is important to think about winter protection for your pride and joy. Common irritations when storing a vehicle during the colder months include tree sap, leaf mould and bird
“ Irritations include tree sap and
mould
mess, and vehicles that are stored for long periods of time outside without a cover can start to turn green!
Storage covers offer a solution and ‘full covers’ are the most popular option. With the aid of extendable poles, these pull over the top of the leisure vehicle (you may need two people to do this). It’s really important to make sure that the cover is properly strapped down.
Universal covers are available from companies such as Kampa, Towsure and Maypole. For a more bespoke tailored cover for your specific make and model of caravan, you could consider consulting companies such as Protec Covers and Specialised Covers.
Full covers can sometimes be a nuisance to deal with. Specialised Covers has designed a product that fits only the roof and simply threads into the awning rails on either side of the caravan. Using a step ladder, the cover is carefully pulled over the roof, ensuring that it doesn’t snag on skylights, aerials or solar panels, and is zipped up like a coat. Extra straps attach to the corner steadies and A-frame to offer a secure fit. One thing to bear in mind – some commercial yards do not allow vehicles to be stored with a cover.
FINAL THOUGHTS …
It is such a joy to remove my storage or towing cover and find a shiny, clean caravan underneath. Anything to reduce the amount of time I spend washing and polishing...
”
1. A towing cover helps prevent grime build-up and protects your vehicle from loose stone chippings 2. A plastic sheet may keep the rain out – but look out for condensation
road lights remain visible through a towing cover
4. This Protec Covers towing cover offers access to the front locker box
5. Motorhome cab covers are ideal for all-year-round touring
6. Extendable poles help lift this full cover up and over the caravan
7. New for 2022 is a roof cover from Specialised Covers
8. Leg-steady straps keep this cover secure
SPECIALISED COVERS
Members receive a £25 discount off full roof covers from Specialised Covers. Visit camc.com/ specialisedcovers for details and terms and conditions.
What could be better than a caravan or motorhome in seconds?
Automatic levelling systems have fast become THE ‘must have’ caravan and motorhome accessory.
We provide the high quality HPC Hydraulic Self-Levelling System at a competitive price.
This system works to provide the convenience of a level and stable caravan or motorhome in less than 90 seconds, leaving you free to do anything else.
• Level in just 90 seconds
• Lightweight just 40Kgs
• Aluminium anodised jacks will not rust
•
• Smart phone app control
• Modern touch screen operation panel
• 4 different level settings (level 1, level 2, tank drain, stabilise)
• No rocking on the suspension
• 12V or 24V
• Intelligent diagnostic history logging
• Take the weight off the wheels
• Doesn’t get stuck in the mud
• Lift up to 30 tonnes
• Maintenance free for 5 years (oil change)
Having a level caravan or motorhome means you won’t have any more shower drainage issues, uneven cooking surfaces, and no rocking if windy or from walking around inside.
ramps and sinking the driven wheels into the mud.
Through this system, you can choose from four different levelling
touch-screen control panel, as well as manual adjustments to extend and retract. You can even download a special smart phone app to control it through a touch of a button.
The HPC automatic levelling system is extremely light weight, featuring jacks made from anodised aluminium. It also features an emergency pump handle, so you can be situation with your motorhome.
6.21
from outside for any other reasons.
For more information or to arrange to see our demonstration vehicle, simply contact a member of our team directly. We will be pleased to motorhome levelling system.
1151-1152 Aztec West Business Park, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4TF
TWO FOR
ONE
Volkswagen’s California family is growing. Alongside the original, Transporter-based California, we now have the Crafter-based Grand variants and this, the smallest sibling.
The Caddy California is based on – you’ve guessed it – the Caddy van, itself derived from the ever-popular Golf car. Which makes it more of a car-camper, I’d say.
Despite its pedigree, assessing it is very tricky: it lacks many of the facilities you’d expect to find in a campervan, let alone a full motorhome, but that misses the point. I can imagine folk wanting to make the most of a very sophisticated daily driver that’s kitted out for occasional camping, and hitching up a trailer tent/folding camper or even a small caravan for extra functionality.
Prices start at £32,909 for the short-wheelbase version and £35,665 for the longer Maxi, as featured
Nick Harding switches the diminutive, car-like Caddy into camper mode
here (it's £33,565 if you're happy with the manual). Extras fitted to this example include: California Plus Package (£1,002 for a 230V inverter; rear tinted glass; front heat-insulating glass; front centre armrest with two cup-holders; LED rear combination lights; and power-latching for the side sliding doors and tailgate), Discover Media DAB+ Navigation system (£1,170 for 10in colour touchscreen and six speakers); panoramic glass roof (£990); front and rear parking sensors (£558), and metallic Indium Grey paint with Palladium/ Titanium upholstery (£636).
BUILD QUALITY
Volkswagen is synonymous with well-built cars and vans, so it’s no surprise that the Caddy California is made with the same sense of purpose.
The conversion work is carried out by Volkswagen itself, starting beyond the rear trio of travel seats. There’s a sturdy folding framework for
Clockwise from top left: car-like driving performance; with tailgate open... the kitchen slides out; handy cutlery tray; with double bed made up; there is an option to add a tent at the back with the tailgate open
a double bed, a slide-out kitchen unit for use when the tailgate is open, and some clever clothes storage in the form of fabric, zipped holdalls that clip into the rearmost side windows either side.
You don’t get an elevating roof, but there’s that fixed glass roof option – great for stargazing in bed.
DRIVING
Quite simply, the Caddy California is as car-like as they come. There’s a positively lively 1.5-litre petrol engine under the bonnet, allied in this example to a super-smooth automatic transmission. That’s a £2,100 option, but I think lots of buyers will deem it worth having. Two-litre diesel engines are also available, but I suspect petrol will prove more popular here.
It’s impressively quiet at all speeds, and highly economical. Steering and brakes are great, and the suspension is definitely more forgiving than any larger motorhome. It certainly has the makings of a
good towcar, too – Volkswagen puts a towing limit of 1,400kg on this particular Caddy California. As for height barriers – don’t even worry yourself about them.
DAYTIME
This is a tricky one. Those non-swivelling seats are pretty much strictly for travel – although the small flip-up tabletops on the backs of the cab chairs could come in handy.
(instantly recognisable from the Transporter-based California, though not as cleverly stowed) take up a fair chunk of boot space, but allow for alfresco dining. Just bring additional chairs if there are more than two of you.
Volkswagen also offers a £412 tent option. It attaches to the back, with the tailgate up. However, I can’t help wondering whether a decent-quality standalone tent would be preferable.
NIGHT-TIME
Full marks to the designers for coming up with a full-size double bed that’s fairly straightforward to make up – but you will need to be organised. It’s easier to assemble from the outside via the sliding side doors – fold down the rear seat backrests then pull out the hinged bed sections and two support legs that give absolute stability to the mattress area. The bed measures some 6ft 6in x 3ft 6in and is supportive and comfortable.
After a fortnight of testing I still couldn’t decide whether it’s better to fit the curtains before or after getting the bed ready. They’re elasticated, attaching internally to the bodywork via magnets. It’s definitely easier to open each door in turn to fit them. There’s also a single black-out panel for the windscreen, which hooks onto the sun visors.
You sleep with your heads towards the front of the vehicle. The only floor space is just inside the tailgate, but you can’t open this door from the inside. So, if you want to make a dash to the toilet block at night, your best exit is through either of the sliding side doors. Finding a place to stow your bedding could be a bit of a challenge.
KITCHEN
It’s back to basics in the kitchen. The slide-out section just inside the tailgate is home to a single gas ring for cooking (using a cylinder), with an adjacent metal tray. There’s also a cutlery tray, which slides across to reveal storage space for small tins, packets, etc. You’ll have to provide your own cool box. There’s a 12V socket, but no facilities for electric hook-up.
WASHROOM
A big ‘N/A’ here, of course: there’s no shower fitting because there’s no water supply. And unless you decide to use a supplementary tent, the only space to house a portable toilet is just inside the tailgate.
Backs of cab seats feature handy flip-up table tops
Most Club sites have excellent amenities blocks. My advice would be to pitch close to one of them and take advantage of the facilities.
DETAILS
There’s a good scattering of interior LED lights, including units in the tailgate that act as downlighters when it’s open.
Should you require extra ventilation, there are a couple of a handy flyscreen net panels that slot into the partially opened cab windows.
If you fancy tweaking the California to suit your needs/budget, there’s a great configurator on the Volkswagen website that allows you to play around with options to your heart’s content, including a choice of 12 exterior colours and six alloy wheel designs.
VERDICT
It’s small, clever and very well puttogether, but camping facilities are limited. It drives like a dream, carrying up to five in the kind of comfort you don’t normally associate with a motorhome. The ultimate camping-car? You bet.
You can insure this motorhome with the Club for £285.33 per year. Please see camc.com/ insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for further details.
Quote (correct as of 26 August 2022) is for the model tested worth £40,021 with a working tracker fitted. Based on a 57-year-old male living in Kent, with a maximum no claims bonus (unprotected) coming from a vehicle of similar value/experience, who has no accidents, claims or convictions and keeps the vehicle on a drive, driving 3,000 miles a year, with a £300 damage, fire and theft excess. Subject to underwriting. The Club’s Motorhome Insurance is arranged for the Club by Devitt Insurance Services Limited, Insurance Brokers. Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited. The Caravan Club Limited and Devitt Insurance Services Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
To see a video of this test, download the Digital Magazine from the App Store or Google Play. Remember to Magazine’.
LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL YOUR VEHICLE?
From brand new models to used caravans and motorhomes, we display thousands of vehicles at camc. com/classifieds It’s free to post an ad and Club members can receive a 30% discount on a premium ad. See website above for more info and terms and conditions.
All change
As we welcome a new season, and the temperatures begin to drop, Jane McGowan looks at a range of outdoor kit
M&Co Dinosaur Wellies
Who wouldn’t want to splash about in these light, bright and fun boots from M&Co? Made from a durable outer, these wellies feature a softer shell drawstring top that is designed to ensure little legs and feet stay as dry as possible no matter what the conditions. Featuring an eye-catching, multi-coloured dinosaur design, these boots are perfect for trips to the beach or an autumn amble where puddles are plentiful.
RRP: £12.99-£14.99
Size: child 6-13
Contact: mandco.com
Regatta Chillguard Dog Coat
It’s not just humans who feel the change in the seasons, and this dog coat from Regatta is ideal for warding off the cold on those long evening walks. Made from a shower-resistant fabric, it also features a lightweight fleece lining for comfort and warmth. Available in three sizes, the coat can be easily secured using a hook-and-loop fastening.
The Circadia shoe boats a leather upper with waterproof, breathable membrane to help keep your feet dry as well as a ‘heel capture’ system designed to provide added stability. Other features include a grippy rubber outsole, lightweight foam cushioning, a ‘speed-lace webbing system’ to aid fit and a natural odour control system. This is a greatlooking everyday hiking shoe –perfect for those autumn getaways.
RRP: £104.99
Sizes: 6-14
Contact: keenfootwear.com
RRP: £15.70 (available for £14.13 through Club Shop; see shop.camc.com for details and terms and conditions)
Size: small, medium, large
Contact: primaleisure.com
Osprey Tempest 20 Rucksack
Although it may be time to pack away the picnic bag, walkers, hikers and holidaymakers are always in need of a sensible carrier to stash essential kit, drinks and snacks. This beautifully produced pack from Osprey has been especially designed to fit women and features a ‘continuous wrap harness’, hip belt and moulded back panel. It comes complete with useful attachment loops and is made from recycled materials. The Osprey is available in several arresting colours, but I think this striking Bell Orange option is perfectly suited to some autumn adventuring.
RRP: £130
Sizes: WXS/S, WM/L
Contact: ospreyeurope.com
Snowdon Melange Womens FullZip Fleece
This fleece from Mountain Warehouse can be worn as an outer on early autumn days or as an additional layer in winter. It is made from a lightweight and breathable ‘anti-pill’ fabric, and the high-neck provides additional protection from draughts. Available in a fabulous range of colours and sizes, it features a coordinating trim around the cuffs and hips.
RRP : £29.99
Member offer : save 15% (see camc.com/ mountainwarehouse for details and terms and conditions)
Size: 4-28
Contact: mountain warehouse.com
Give it a shot!
Jonathan Manning has a go at clay pigeon shooting –
The first four clay pigeons –neither made of clay nor pigeon-shaped – shatter into shards then evaporate into clouds of dust. It seems as though hitting a moving disc target is actually a relatively straightforward exercise... The next six clays sail by unscathed, breaking only on impact with the ground. It turns out that hitting a moving target is not straightforward at all! Fortunately, I have a coach on hand to guide me through a practice session at Mid Norfolk Shooting Ground, as a phalanx of launchers fling projectiles past me.
Cyril William-Fisher has the air of someone who has seen and heard it all. No question catches him by surprise; no action prompts him even to raise an eyebrow. It’s hugely reassuring, especially when clay after clay serenely glides past the volley of shot I fire, landing like tiny UFOs in the grass.
The only lesson Cyril imparts sternly is about safety – shotguns are lethal weapons. I’m to break the gun (ie open the barrels at their hinge) whenever I carry it; and I’m never to peer down the end of the barrels or point them at anyone. These precautions sound like common sense but, later, when adrenaline starts coursing through
my veins, it’s easy to see how I might unthinkingly swing around in frustration or delight. I’m also wearing mandatory ear protectors and glasses to guard against all eventualities.
Truth be told, I have fired a shotgun before, albeit more than a quarter of a century ago. My first paid job in journalism was on a clay pigeon shooting magazine called Pull! – the command shouted by shooters when they want the next clay to be released.
I was never a successful shot back then, and Cyril suggests this may be down to my eye ‘dominance’. With clay pigeon or game shooting, the ideal is to keep both eyes open to maximise peripheral vision, but when hand and eye dominance don’t match, the eye peering down the barrel is not the eye taking aim. I’m right-handed, but a quick eye test reveals that my left eye is dominant.
(To check your eye dominance, keep both eyes open and point your right hand at a distant chimney pot. Now close your left eye. If your finger is still pointing at the chimney, you’re right-eye dominant. But if you only point at the chimney when your right eye is closed and left eye open, you are left-eye dominant – this causes an issue if you’re right-handed.)
Cyril tells me the easiest solution is to shoot left-handed, but a lifetime of racket sports
10%
GREATEST HITS
Three more shooting grounds Club members can enjoy a 10% discount at these locations using the Club’s Great Savings Guide. Pre-book by calling The Big Shoot and using the discount code provided at camc.com/ greatsavingsguide
CLAY SHOOTING EXETER
Choose between traditional clay pigeon shooting (£38.50 for 30 clays with one-to-one tuition) or laser clay shooting (£25pp for one hour, based on a minimum of four people).
Info: exeterclayshooting.co.uk/ thebigshoot.co.uk
Stay: Exeter Racecourse Club Campsite
HAZEL BANK, KNARESBOROUGH
This multi-award-winning shooting ground offers taster sessions for beginners, with tuition, equipment hire and 30 clays costing £44 per person.
Info: hazelbankshooting.co.uk/ thebigshoot.co.uk
Stay: Knaresborough Club Campsite
BISLEY AT BRAIDWOOD, SELKIRK
Test your aim at Scotland’s largest clay pigeon shooting ground. A 50-shot lesson, including gun hire, clays, cartridges and instruction, costs £69.
Info: bisleyshooting.co.uk/ thebigshoot.co.uk
Stay: Melrose Gibson Park Club Campsite
Clockwise from main image: Jonathan straightens his left leg and leans forward a little; with shotgun in
Cyril William-Fisher
means I’m more comfortable letting my right side take control, and with no pirate eye patch to hand I simply close my left eye and shoot.
BIRDS, TRAPS AND KILLS
The shooting of live pigeons was outlawed more than a century ago, but the lingo of clay shooting still references the original form of the sport: clays are often referred to as ‘birds’; launchers are called ‘traps’; and a successful shot is a ‘kill’.
And if I don’t hold the gun properly, I’m going to ‘kill’ my shoulder. The recoil from a shotgun can be punishing if it’s not held correctly, so I pull the butt close in, rest my cheekbone on the wooden stock, and gaze along the top of the barrel as Cyril micro-adjusts the angle of my head.
He’s more concerned about my body position, telling me to point my feet towards where the clay will be when I pull the trigger, and encouraging me to lean forward like a tennis player about to serve – left leg straight, right heel slightly raised.
Then he loads a single cartridge into one of the barrels of the Beretta shotgun I’ve borrowed from the shooting ground, and presses a button on a giant remote control. I hear a spring release, and suddenly a four-inch disc of limestone and pitch flies towards me. As it stalls, high in the air, I pull the trigger, the clay bursts into a star, and I grin like a toddler on Christmas morning. Three more kills follow before we change trap, and the trajectory of the next clay changes completely.
“ It’s intoxicating; a visceral, real world thrill”
The flights of the clays are designed to replicate different game birds – high pheasants; fast, low partridge and grouse; teal, with their apparently vertical take-off. It soon becomes apparent that the longer I have to think before pulling the trigger, the worse my accuracy. Shooting should be a fluid, instinctive movement, says Cyril – let the clay overtake the end of the barrels before smoothly swinging through its trajectory and shooting ahead of the target, not at it.
“Imagine the clay is a bird with a stick in its mouth and there’s a balloon at the far end of the stick,” says Cyril. “Aim at the balloon.”
The length of this imaginary stick varies depending on my distance to the launcher, and as soon as I have the hang of one set of targets, Cyril changes to the next trap, which propels clays at a different angle, creating a whole new challenge. It’s intoxicating; a visceral, real-world thrill that’s more engrossing than any computer game.
Before I know it, my one-hour session is over. I’ve lost count of how many shots I’ve fired but there’s still time for a quick tour of the 50-acre shooting ground, which boasts a pleasant clubhouse and well-stocked shop. Already I want to have another go – firing a shotgun can quickly become addictive.
SAVE 10%
AIM FOR ANGLIA
A 60-minute one-toone coaching session at Mid Norfolk Shooting Ground costs £70 (or £100 for two people) –cartridges not included. Club members enjoy a 10% discount courtesy of the Great Savings Guide (camc.com/ greatsavingsguide). Info: norfolkshooting. co.uk/thebigshoot.co.uk Stay: Norfolk Broads Club Campsite
Jonathan lines up the target... and then fires ahead of it
Above from top: a red grouse will tell you to ‘go-back’! ; the beaver splashes its flattened tail to warn of danger; the skylark usually sings while in flight; the nightjar has the
ALL EARS
Nature expert David Chapman urges you to stop and listen during your country walks – you just never know what you might discover...
My list of things to pack whenever we go away in the ’van has been subject to some notable changes over the years. My latest list began with ‘knee supports’ and ‘back support’, which were followed by ‘heat pads, spare spectacles, lightweight binoculars and walking poles’. I won’t go on, but you get the idea: age is starting to make its presence felt.
But despite a few moans and groans, I keep pretty fit, my eyesight is good – providing I can remember where I left my specs – and, critically, I have a keen sense of hearing. When it comes to finding wildlife, particularly birds, listening is more important than looking. I estimate that about 70% of the birds I find on casual countryside walks are located first by hearing.
I know many people who find it difficult to hear birds. It’s as if they are tuned into the wrong station, and sadly sometimes this is because their range of hearing has diminished. But I know others who miss out because they never stop talking, and some who listen to music through earphones on their walks. Don’t they know what they’re missing? It isn’t only birdsong; the sound of wind blowing through the trees, the rustling of reeds or the bubbling of water in a stream
are the very things that turn a countryside walk into an enriching experience. Be sure to stop every so often: stop talking, stop walking, and just stand still and listen for at least a minute. If you hear something distant but struggle to make it out, try cupping your hands behind your ears. This focuses the sound like an ‘acoustic mirror’
yellowhammer
The song of the corn bunting is like the jangling of keys
SOUND STAGE
Listening to wildlife isn’t all about locating things to see – sound can be the headline act. Nightingale song is truly incredible, while the appearance of the bird itself is far less exciting. Nightjars are well camouflaged and quite drably coloured – but it is worth going out on night-time walks, getting bitten to pieces by
mozzies, just to hear them. One of the most astonishing spectacles I ever witnessed was the return of Manx shearwaters – which I wouldn’t describe as attractive birds – to their nest sites on the island of Skomer in the dead of night, their ghostly calls filling the air. Birds and other wild animals make sounds for a range of reasons. Mating is a key one.
STAY AT
To listen to rutting deer, head to Chatsworth Park Club Campsite (top); for curlew, anywhere near an estuary will do, for example Wirral Country Park Club Campsite (middle). The coast near Southport Club Campsite (bottom) is also good for curlew, as well as flocks of pink-footed geese.
The lapwing is also known distinctive call
Sometimes animals make sounds to warn others of danger, using various parts of their bodies. The beaver splashes its flattened tail loudly on water, rabbits thump their feet on the ground, and water voles make a distinctive ‘plopping’ sound when they enter the water in a rush.
NAME-CALLING
Natural sounds have always captured the imagination – think of the many literary references to the singing of the skylark or song thrush. Indeed, we often name birds in reference to their songs, for example the stonechat and grasshopper warbler. To others we have given onomatopoeic names (words that sound like the birds’ calls) – such as the cuckoo, kittiwake, hoopoe, crow and chiffchaff.
To listen to a selection of incredible sounds taken from nature (including the calls of the black grouse, marsh frog, natterjack toad and nightingale), download the Digital Magazine from the App Store or Google Play. Remember to search for ‘CAMC Magazine’.
Here are a few creatures to listen for during October:
In autumn red deer stags bellow to dominate a harem and proclaim their territory. The fieldfare is a large thrush that arrives in flocks in Britain during October; they are rarely silent and have a distinctive, rather lovely, chuckling chatter. In autumn and winter adult tawny owls are at their loudest as they tell their youngsters to sling their hooks; listen out for the female’s ‘too-whit’ and the male’s ‘too-whoo’.
In October we see the mass arrival of several species of geese (including the pinkfooted goose); their honking flight calls are strongly evocative of winter.
The black grouse, for example, makes a beautiful and bizarre bubbling noise in its desire to pair off, and both natterjack toads and marsh frogs have weirdly wonderful calls (rasping and cackling, respectively), which are loud enough to attract females through dense vegetation. Meanwhile, the distinctive ‘drumming’ sound of a snipe during its display flight is created by the vibration of its tail feathers as it swoops downwards, just as we can whistle by positioning a taut blade of grass between our thumbs and blowing across it.
For other species, the reference to a call lives on only in the dialect of the areas they inhabit. For example, the capercaillie is also known as ‘the horse of the woods’ because it makes a clip-clopping sound, and the lapwing is referred to as a ‘peewit’.
We also use mnemonics – memory tools – to identify birds from their calls. One of the most famous is related to the yellowhammer’s, which sounds like ‘a little bit of bread and no cheese’, while one of my favourites is the red grouse’s ‘go-back, go-back’.
I hope I’ll always be able to find time to stop, listen and enjoy being immersed in the always uplifting, and often astonishing, sounds of the natural world.
MEMBER
SINCE. .. Motorhomer David Chapman joined the Club in 2000
Red deer Fieldfare
Tawny owl
Pink-footed goose
Ashley Sansom - Club member
Centre Lines
The latest news from across the country
Party time
July saw the long-awaited Upper Thames Centre 70th birthday celebrations get underway after a delay of two years due to the pandemic.
An impressive 95 outfits and 200 people attended the special, five-day rally in Witney, Oxfordshire.
On the Saturday, a fete, organised by Chairlady Lisa Dymock, raised a staggering £1,200 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (Oxfordshire branch), with more donations still coming in.
A decorated blue and white marquee was used to host the entertainment each
evening, with one of the highlights being a splendid hog roast. Members from several different Centres around the UK were in attendance, including 28 previous chairmen and women. Club Chairman, Grenville Chamberlain, was an honorary guest.
North Essex plan trip to France
An overseas trip to rural France from 8-22 July 2023 is being organised by the North Essex Centre. The rally will take place at Camping Le Moulin, in Chef Boutonne. Visit northessex caravanclub.org. uk for further details.
BIRTHDAY BEERS
Chairpersons past and present helped Bedfordshire Centre celebrate at its 55th birthday rally. Friday evening’s entertainment was provided by Lee and some welcome bacon rolls were offered for all to enjoy.
Saturday highlights included sampling craft beers from a local brewery and an exhibition of hobbies and handicrafts in the marquee, with cream teas served in the afternoon. More entertainment was provided in the evening, with attendees treated to a hog roast dinner and dessert. The special birthday cake was cut on the Sunday.
GOLDEN COUPLE
Durham Centre chairman Barry Dodd and his wife Angela celebrated their Golden Anniversary in July.
Many congratulations from all at the Club!
RALLY ROSTER
A TASTE OF PARADIS
The Suffolk Centre ran a two-week rally in the Dordogne, south-west France, for a small group of 15 outfits. Staying at Le Paradis sur Vezere in St Léon, the fun kicked off with a beetle drive, followed by a quiz night which was helped along with some ‘Suffolk punch’ using the Centre’s own secret recipe!
There was also a cheese and wine evening, while a boules tournament that ran across the entire two weeks resulted in Raymond Herring delivering the winning shot, despite strong
competition from visitors from Buckinghamshire, North Yorkshire, North Lancashire and Wiltshire
A 13km canoe ride down the river was enjoyed in glorious sunshine, with some stopping for lunch or to photograph the lovely châteaux that run along the banks.
Despite a few mishaps, including a couple of blown tyres and a car breakdown , the fortnight proved to be a massive success.
Many thanks to all the marshals who were presented with a lovely gift bag.
Congratulations to the North Essex Centre, which celebrated its 60th birthday at the Museum of Power in Langford, Essex, in August.
Each month we highlight a few rallies taking place within or near the region covered by our main touring feature (p26-38 this month). See centre websites for more information.
13-16 October
Glenearly Caravan Park, Dalbeattie (Dumfries & Galloway Centre, thescottishcaravanclub.com)
14-17 October
Drummohr Holiday Park, Musselburgh (Forth and Clyde Centre, scc-forth-andclyde.co.uk)
SOMETHING IN THE AIR
A total of £270 was raised for East Anglian Air Ambulance during the Suffolk Centre Chairman’s Charity Rally at Trinity Park, Ipswich. Special mention must go to Liz Combes who made excellent scones, Morrisons supermarket in Felixstowe which supplied some of the ingredients for the cream tea afternoon, Farnham Leisure, KM Leisure Supplies, Sharman Caravans and East Anglian Air Ambulance for supplying prizes for the draw. The Chairman would like to thank everyone who made it such a successful weekend.
The Annual General Meeting of The Caravan Club Ltd (trading as the Caravan and Motorhome Club) will be held at 2pm on Saturday 29 October 2022 in the Churchill Suite, Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, Broad Sanctuary, London SW1P 3EE.
As stated in the Notice in the July issue of the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, notices of motion and nominations for office had to be received no later than Saturday 3 September in order to comply with Bye-Laws 16, 17 and 18.
N D J Lomas
Director General
5 September 2022
Due to the successful delivery of a hybrid meeting last year, it is intended that the meeting will be available to view again online for those who are not able to attend in person. Please keep checking our website for the latest information about the event (camc.com/agm) and to see how you can view the meeting online. As in previous years, full members will be able to vote on the motions by proxy, electronically, in advance of the meeting. Proxy voting goes live on 7 October and full members are advised that proxy forms must be lodged by midnight on 26 October
AGENDA
1. Chairman’s Annual Report.
2. Treasurer’s Financial Report: to approve and adopt the Statement of Accounts for 2021 and the Reports of the Executive Committee and the Auditors thereon (summary on pages 110 and 112).
3. Auditors: to approve the re-appointment of Dixon Wilson and agree that the fixing of their remuneration be left to the Executive Committee.
4. Director General’s Report.
5. Elections:
a. President: to re-elect The Earl of Leicester for a one-year term.
b. Chairman: to re-elect Grenville Chamberlain* for a one-year term.
c. Vice-Chairman: to elect Ann Marie Ward* for a three-year term.
d. Treasurer: to re-elect Christopher Macgowan* for a one-year term.
e. Executive Committee: to re-elect Barry Sharratt* for a three-year term.
using the secure online form, details of which will be sent at the end of September to all those full members with a registered email address. The email, with individual voting credentials, will be sent from elections@mi-voice.com. You may wish to save the email address to your contacts to avoid the email ending up in your junk folder. This will be followed by a reminder email on 18 October. Mi-Voice, which is part of Democracy Technology, is the Electoral Services Company running the process on our behalf. Any member information
used by Mi-Voice is being handled in accordance with the Club’s strict data security protocols.
The summary Financial Statements for 2021 are published on pages 110 and 112. The full Statements are available online at camc.com and to full members, free of charge, by emailing governance@camc.com. The account of last year’s AGM was published in the December 2021 Magazine and can also be found, along with the full minutes of the meeting, in the ‘About Us’ area on the Club’s website and by visiting camc.com/agm.
f. Executive Committee: to re-elect Hamish Stuart* for a three-year term.
g. Executive Committee: to re-elect Alison Woodhams* for a three-year term.
h. Executive Committee: to elect Sue Southwell* for a three-year term.
6. Club Council: to approve up to 30 members, nominated by the Executive Committee, to serve on Club Council: Phillip Aldridge, Engineer; Robin Blackford, Training Manager (Retired); David S Brookes, Musician; Ben Canneaux, Police Officer; Rev’d Canon Hazel Charlton, Club Chaplain; Selwyn Cooper, Head of Financial Services (Retired); Brian Condell, Electronic Engineer; Alex Davidson, Sales & Marketing Manager UK & Ireland; Helen Drew, Accountant; Paul Funnell, Business Owner; Lynn George, European Chief Operations Director, Insurance (Retired); Bruce Gibson, Managing Director Stockbroking Company & Caravan Site Owner (Retired); Alastair Greene, Chartered Surveyor; Jill Hardell, Head of HR (Retired) ;
Annette Harris, Category Manager, Procurement; Prof Adrian Hobbs CBE, Transport Safety Adviser; Julia Mark, SENCO Manager & Trampolining Coach; Graeme McKenzie, System Engineer (Retired); Iain McLindon, Police Officer; John Morgan, NHS Manager; Charles Patrick, Motor Industry Manager; Sandy Pattullo, Engineering Service Manager; Dr David Pettinger, System Engineer; James Porter, Teacher (semi-retired); Greg Potter, Police Officer (Retired); Karen Shipper, Mortgage Manager (Retired).
7. Amendment to Articles of Association: to adopt the revised Articles of Association with amended wording that includes provision to allow for partially or fully virtual meetings to be held in the future (full details of which have been circulated by email to all members, are available to read in full at camc.com/agm and are available from governance@camc.com by request).
8. Any other notified business.
*See biographical notes on page 103.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES ON MEMBERS NOMINATED FOR OFFICE AND COMMITTEE
GRENVILLE CHAMBERLAIN
CHAIRMAN TO BE RE-ELECTED FOR A ONE-YEAR PERIOD
(Agenda Item 5b)
Grenville Chamberlain OBE has been proposed by Mark
ANN MARIE WARD
VICE-CHAIRMAN TO BE ELECTED FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD
(Agenda Item 5c)
Ann Marie Ward has been proposed by Grenville
CHRISTOPHER MACGOWAN
TREASURER TO BE RE-ELECTED FOR A ONE-YEAR PERIOD
(Agenda Item 5d)
Christopher Macgowan OBE has been proposed by Edward Baxter and seconded by Ann Marie Ward.
BARRY SHARRATT
MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO BE RE-ELECTED FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD
(Agenda Item 5e)
Barry Sharratt has been proposed by David Turner and seconded by
HAMISH STUART
MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO BE RE-ELECTED FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD
(Agenda Item 5f)
Hamish Stuart has been proposed by Gordon Smart and seconded by
ALISON WOODHAMS
MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO BE RE-ELECTED FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD
(Agenda Item 5g)
Alison Woodhams has been proposed by Graeme McKenzie
SUE SOUTHWELL
MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO BE ELECTED FOR A THREE-YEAR PERIOD
(Agenda Item 5h)
Sue Southwell has been proposed by John Lefley and seconded by Edward
Sinclair-Watson and seconded by Christopher Macgowan. Grenville was appointed Chairman of the Club in 2007 and chairs the Executive Committee. Grenville loves his motorhome and sees touring as a way of life for his
Chamberlain and seconded by Greg Potter. Ann Marie joined the Club in 2013 and is a keen caravanner who enjoys visiting both Club campsites and CL sites. She is keen that the Club offers a diverse range of
Christopher has held the position of Club Treasurer since 2011 and chairs the Finance and Management Committee. He keeps a close eye on the Club accounts, and his legacy would be to see the Club’s sound finances even further improved. He
Hamish Stuart. Barry has been a caravanner and active Club member for more than 35 years. As a retired engineer who worked for many years in the automotive industry, Barry takes a very keen and personal interest
Christopher Macgowan. Hamish joined the Club in 1985 and currently owns a caravan. As a member of the Executive Committee, Hamish hopes to see the Club make more use of alternative energy sources such as
and seconded by Hamish Stuart. Alison joined the Club in 2011 and has never looked back, enjoying the variety of Club campsites that she has visited. Alison is keen that the Club champions environmental issues and ensures that they are the
Baxter. Sue owns a motorhome and joined the Club in 1984. Sue is a member of the Club’s Sites and Accommodation Users Committee and is very eager to see the Club continue to protect its site network through investment, refurbishment
family, spending almost every weekend in various parts of the country, visiting sites, CLs, rallies and events and always participating in Club activities to support Club members.
accommodation options that allows all members and their loved ones to experience and benefit from exploring great locations and helps create happy memories.
enjoys travel and visits as many Club campsites as possible, with his favourite close to home being Ashridge Farm. He is looking forward to travelling more freely into Europe and beyond again as he continues to appreciate family and leisure time.
in the technical aspects of the caravan and motorhome industries and is a member of the Technical Committee.
solar and wind on its sites to help the environment and tackle climate change issues.
focus of all decision-making, particularly as the Club moves forward on its environmental journey; and has a particular interest in the finance, IT and governance aspects of the Club.
and new acquisitions. She is always mindful of the diverse membership of the Club whose needs and expectations will need to be met by the Club becoming fully inclusive and offering products and services that are appropriate and accessible to all.
CLUB PERFORMANCE REVIEW 2021
We are pleased to report that the Club had another successful year in which we made a strong bounceback from the pandemic amid high demand for staycations. This allowed further progress in the development of the Club and further strengthening of the balance sheet. Our prediction that more members would be eager to start enjoying touring after the Q1 lockdown proved to be correct and we were primed and ready. Many records were broken month after month in a remarkable year for occupancy and membership numbers. The Club had another strong year for investment in the site network and made further progress in its IT infrastructure and other investments to prepare it well for the future.
In 2021 the Club recorded a bounceback of surplus, offsetting the pandemic deficit of the previous year, despite the closure of UK sites in Q1 and extended restrictions on Travel, which was adversely affected by ongoing pandemic effects. Because of the strength of these results the overall financial strength and liquidity of the Club remained strong and demonstrated again a high degree of resilience to the seismic shock of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. 2021 was a recovery year and has clawed back all of the pandemic losses, leaving the Club in a stronger position than ever before by all measures: revenue, surplus, cash, net assets, financial services, UK sites, overseas capability and membership.
CLUB’S FINANCIAL RESULTS
Total revenue of £113.4m represented a bounceback of £31.7m from 2020, sites being the main driver of this, contributing an extra £31.3m. The site closures in the Q1 period in 2021 were not nearly as significant as in 2020 and there was a really strong staycation boom in the peak season, with records falling month on month. The increase in interest in our pastime grew and the pick up in membership that started in late 2020 continued unabated through 2021 and contributed to an extra £1m in revenue in 2021 vs 2020. Membership closed the year at 381,800, up 25,800 from 356,000 in 2020. Insurance and Financial Services put in another solid revenue performance at £24m, slightly hampered by the lag effects from 2020. Travel revenue was further down at £2.5m due to the extension of the pandemic restrictions and ongoing uncertainty for all overseas travel throughout 2021. Travel has seen the deepest and longest lasting impact but is recovering well in 2022. Marketing services saw a bounceback across the board although there were a number of cancelled events and a difficult advertising market for the Club magazine. A recovery surplus of £14.8m in 2021 represented a huge bounceback of £24.8m year
on year. Sites was the biggest bounceback of all at £5.6m, up £20.7m. Q1 was a relatively benign quarter to have a forced lockdown closure of sites. The peak season felt like August every month from May to September, and the site staff responded magnificently to cope with the higher volume of members wanting to stay on our wonderful sites coming back later in the year. Membership surplus was also strongly ahead at £14.2m, up £0.9m. Insurance and Financial Services also had a strong bottom line result of £8.9m, up £1.1m, assisted by some beneficial underwriting arrangements and lower claims experience. Travel, however, was severely restricted and had to take mitigating measures to reduce costs again in 2021, whilst spending its time successfully building a portfolio of the best overseas site contracts, in expectation of members wanting to travel overseas again once the restrictions are lifted and an anticipated bounceback starting in 2022, into 2023 and beyond. Marketing net expenditure was improved despite cancelled events and other costs were down due to substantial mitigations and government support offsetting extra Covid pandemic-related costs.
Throughout the pandemic and in 2021 the Club’s cash management has continued to be very strong, ending with £53.7m net cash. Total accessible funds were £72.7m including the availability of a £20m revolving credit facility, negotiated in the pandemic, which so far has been unused and remains a helpful safety net to protect the Club should such unprecedented
events take place again and a potential source of extra capital. As a result of increased investment and a strong surplus, net assets, already very robust, have grown again to £147.6m.
INVESTING IN CLUB SITES AND CAPABILITIES
Total investment in 2021 of £17.8m was up £8.8m on 2020. Notable in year spend was the acquisition and initial spend on Carnon Downs; continued site improvements at Brighton Club Campsite; pitch improvements at River Breamish Club Campsite; as well as enhancements and site improvements at Cayton, Moreton-in-Marsh and Coniston Club Campsites. The Club also made significant commitments for delivery in 2022 for facilities block and site-wide improvements at Scarborough West Ayton and Clumber Park Club Campsites; complete site redevelopment at Winchester Morn Hill; redevelopment at Lady Margaret’s Park and an extension field and all-weather pitching at Teesdale Barnard Castle. In addition to our UK sites investment of £12.1m, the Club invested a further £5.7m on central IT infrastructure, including the new Booking Capability system going live in 2022.
OTHER NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS
Every year the Club punches well above its weight across Marketing, Customer Service and Health and Safety, receiving accolades from industry forums. 2021 was no exception. The Club was once again voted Best Caravan Cover and Best
Party at River Breamish
Photo by Hilary Scollins
Jubilee fun at Treamble Valley
Photo by member Audrey Mann
Clumber Park Club Campsite
Photo by member Jenny Dobson
The Club received a number of awards
REVENUE AT A GLANCE
SOURCES OF REVENUE IN 2021
Motorhome Insurance provider at the Insurance Choice Awards in 2021. In 2022 it received a RoSPA Leisure Safety Gold Award for excellence in Health and Safety management. During 2021 the Club received the FIA Region 1 Innovation Award Runner Up – this award reflected the move to a virtual BLF (Big Little Festival) campaign to maintain engagement with members during the pandemic. The event included online competitions, quizzes, music, storytelling, arts and crafts, appealing to all generations. Finally, while the Club did not win, it was named in the top four of 79 entrants for Best Distributed Workforce at the Contact Centre Management Association Awards in 2022, which was a fantastic result.
OUTLOOK FOR 2022
While there are a number of headwinds that the Club is trying to navigate to ensure it finishes the year on track with budget, at the half year mark the outlook is on track with the budget across the board. Revenue is looking to meet budget, though assisted by the inclusion of a necessary April price increase, to mitigate the additional cost of electricity on sites due to the unprecedented global events that have unfolded in 2022.
Club Surplus is likely to be on track and closing cash, net of any acquisitions, looks likely to be temporarily exceeding budget as a result of some slippage on the large capital expenditure budget, though the commitment to these investments remains. Membership remains above track at the half year point and whilst the rate of exceedance is
View from Les 7 Iles campsite, Brittany
Photo by member Mike Bartlett
White House Farm CL
Photo by member Chris Marchant
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slowing up it is still growing and set to exceed budget expectations going into 2023.
Looking further ahead, darker clouds have gathered in relation to the cost of living, energy and fuel, and the risk of stagflation and recession now looks higher. As ever, the Club will take a balanced view to navigate a path that takes account of pressures on the cost of living and inflation for members and staff alike, while ensuring sufficient financial resources are retained to push on with necessary capital investment, improving member service levels and a modest growth agenda, given the outlook for the pastime remains positive for the foreseeable future. As a members’ organisation with no shareholders or dividends to pay, or expensive borrowing, we are in the best possible position to confidently weather these sorts of financial storms, as we have successfully done through previous periods of significant financial pressure.
EXTRACT FROM THE FULL INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
We have audited the financial statements of The Caravan Club Limited for the year ended 31 December 2021 which are summarised in this Summary Financial Statement. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company
and the Company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF DIRECTORS AND AUDITOR
The Members of the Executive Committee, the Directors, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s (APB’s) Ethical Standards for Auditors to the financial statements.
SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT
This financial statement is a summary of information in the audited annual accounts of The Caravan Club Limited, trading as ‘Caravan and Motorhome Club’, for the year ended 31 December 2021. A copy of the full annual accounts is available online at camc.com and to Full Members, free of charge, by emailing governance@camc.com.
SUMMARY DIRECTORS’ REPORT
The information contained in the Club Performance review comprises the Summary Directors’ Report.
The Directors consider that the Group has adequate resources to continue operations for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, the going concern basis has continued to be adopted in preparing the Annual Report and Accounts.
Approved by the Executive Committee on 22 April 2022 and signed on its behalf by:
G J Chamberlain (Chairman), C J Macgowan (Hon Treasurer) and N D J Lomas (as Company Secretary).
OPINION ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In our opinion the financial statements: give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and the Company’s affairs as at 31 December 2021 and of the Group’s surplus for the year then ended; have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
Dixon
Wilson, Statutory Auditor London
North Cornwall tin mine
Photo by Graham Woolrich
Durdle Door
Photo by member Sarah Randall
The above results were derived from continuing operations.
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WARMER IN WINTER
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USABLE ALL YEAR ROUND
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MOULD & CONDENSATION
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COOLER IN SUMMER
“You could have fried an egg on the table in there in the summer, I now look upon the conservatory as a new room. It is quiet, restful and cosy.”
“For the first time in 10 years we do not have to close the door to the conservatory when it rains, as the noise is minimal and before I found it difficult to hear the TV over the loudness of the rain on the old roof.”
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“What a difference a day makes as the saying goes, and yes, that’s all it took to install.”
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£90 in Club gift vouchers to be won CROSSWORD
will be won by the sender of the first correct solution selected on Friday 21 October 2022. Four runners-up will each receive Please Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry.
1 Promise of marriage (10)
6 Resistant to tiny fingers (10)
11 Path across a wild region or rough country (5)
12 Professional boxer (12)
14 Narrow road (4)
16 Outdoor fair or festival (4)
17 Assist (3)
18 Portable light (5)
20 Virtuous (6)
21 Character part (4)
22 Traffic collision (5)
23 French-Italian coast (7)
25 Funny fellow (3)
26 Ant-like insect (7)
28 Repair (4)
29 Advertising sheet (7)
33 Written work (10)
35 Soil enricher (10)
38 Principal city (7)
41 Unit of land area (4)
42 Crisp and brittle like a biscuit (7)
45 Drinking salon (3)
46 Jumbled word (7)
48 Of the sun (5)
49 Before long (4)
50 Unbroken (6)
52 Evil spirit (5)
54 Decay like wet wood (3)
55 One of two alike (4)
57 Set of cards held (4)
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1 Hypnotise (8)
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59 Cheap instrument (5,7)
60 Additional, different (5)
61 First reserve, but not the pick (6,4)
62 Pastry spreader (7,3)
2 Mum's mum or dad (11)
3 Seaside bird (4)
4 Very costly (9)
5 Tornado (7)
6 Encourage vocally (5)
7 Nationality (5)
8 Lose water content (9)
9 Outcrop of coral (4)
10 999 brigade (12)
13 A fresh start (7)
15 Bonfire remains (3)
19 Kids (8)
20 Close friend (4)
24 A novel thought (4)
27 The whole amount (5)
29 In due course (5)
30 Everyone (3)
31 Commercially successful books or films (12)
32 Three sided shape (8)
34 Rodent (3)
58 Soft, fluffy feathers (4) ACROSS
36 A grant for study purposes (11)
37 Locality (4)
39 Root vegetable (7)
40 Left unfinished (9)
42 Sideways acrobatic feat (9)
43 (4)
44 Fellow members (8)
47 Cathedral church (7)
51 Is able to (3)
52 To search for underground water (5)
53 Slightly wet (5)
56 Fiddling emperor (4)
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TAIL LIGHTS
Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring
Wash and go
Club member John Spilman thought he had seen all the usual things in motorhome ‘garages’ until he spotted a neighbour’s dedication to clean clothes on a site in France. Their full-size domestic washing machine was plumbed into the pitch tap, but John does not know how the waste water was managed. (Note: this sort of set up is not permitted on Club sites!)
Travelling light
Our thanks to Veronica for this picture of a fellow camper’s set-up in Bar-le-Duc, France. That’s not the kind of outfit you see every day!
POTS OF FUN
We received some fantastic pictures from Mark Driscoll, who clearly enjoyed his two-week trip along Scotland’s North Coast 500 route. Along the way Mark found this denim-sporting family of four flower beds. From left to right: Lily, Basil, Rose and Bud.
Debra in Wonderland
Debra Peacock was taken by this impressive, Lewis Carroll-themed display at the Beaulieu Estate, which she found while staying at the Club’s pop-up campsite over summer. Curiouser and curiouser...
Great Dane
“This is a small birdbox my wife gave me as a Father’s Day present a few years ago when we were in Blavand, Denmark,” says Andrew Clark. What a great caravanning memento!
To see an additional Tail Lights page, download the Digital Magazine from the App Store or Google Play. Remember to Magazine’.
If you see something fun or unusual on a Club site, CL or while you’re out and about, please send a picture to magazine@camc.com or tag @candmclub on Instagram and we’ll print the best.
TAIL LIGHTS
Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring
Yellow there
Anthony Heywood came across this rather imposing motorhome while he was at Morfa Beach. Dubbed the ‘African Express’ by its Italian owners, the vehicle looks suitably well equipped for a long, rigorous journey across a variety of that continent’s landscapes... and presumably coped admirably with the occasional North Wales pothole, to boot.
Whitley Bay watch
It’s perfectly clear that Marley and Tamar have a favourite Club campsite – Old Hartley – complete with a lovely patch of grass to roll around in upon arrival! Our thanks to Robert Brown for the picture.
Hands that do dishes
“I love washing up, so I was over the moon when my four-year-old daughter discovered the joy of outdoor dishwashing with me at Longleat Club site,” says Christian Luff. According to Christian, she did a fine job, spurred on by a background soundtrack of barking sea lions from the Longleat Estate.
You herd
Driving carefully along the entrance road to Bunree Club Campsite, Peter Black drew some admiring nods and glances towards his Benimar. “I couldn’t help wondering if they were maybe the moo-torhome assessment group checking out a recent model,” he jokes. Must have been a warm day – none of them appears to be Friesian!
Van fans
Louisa Trafford enjoyed a day out at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu recently – here are her children Abby, Charlie and Ben enjoying the exhibition of the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Collection.
If you see something fun or unusual on a Club site, CL or while you’re out and about, please send a picture to magazine@camc.com or tag @candmclub on Instagram and we’ll print the best.
A Great day out
Jonathan Manning takes in the beautiful Broads on a quiet, flat ride northwards from Great Yarmouth Racecourse Club Campsite
With miles of sandy beach, endless amusements, candy floss and ice creams within easy reach, it’s fair to say that cycling isn’t the number one priority for holidaymakers at Great Yarmouth Racecourse Club Campsite. But for tourers who fancy a break from the seaside hullabaloo, this ride heads north up the coast, past a village called California (yes, really!) and flint-walled churches to the quieter marshes and wetlands of the Norfolk Broads.
These mudflats have the empty remoteness of moorland, although the waterways that slice, dice and drain them are as calm as canals, some wide enough for pleasure boats to moor along their banks. Much of this landscape has been reclaimed from the sea, and one of the many windmills that kept the water flowing out to the ocean is Horsey Windpump, a definite highlight of this ride.
Standing proud above an area once known as Devil’s Country because of its wild and lawless nature, the sails of this handsomely restored windmill can still turn thanks to a major restoration project carried out between 2016 and 2019. The wind pump, one of the largest in the Broads, dates from 1912, although there have been mills on the site since circa 1730-1740. Today, Horsey
Windpump is run by the National Trust, and there’s a pretty tearoom where a sign declares: ‘Now it’s tea level - powered by tea, propelled by cake’, a mantra surely for any cyclist!
It’s an attractive place to stop, with an easy walk alongside Horsey Mere, although if you fancy a cuppa there’s an even more interesting cafe about a mile farther at the 1940s-themed Poppylands, where the hummingbird cake is highly recommended. Almost opposite Poppylands a bumpy gravel track heads down to Horsey Gap, a path carved through the windswept dunes to the coast. It’s a great place to dip your toes on a sunny day, and one of the best locations on the Norfolk coast to spot seals. Toes dried, this route retraces its steps all the way back to the Club campsite.
DIRECTIONS
1
Leave Great Yarmouth Racecourse Club Campsite, cross the racecourse, and turn right at the roundabout. In 150m turn right along Fremantle Road, with the racecourse grandstands on the right. Continue to a T-junction.
2 800m – Turn right at the T-junction, using the cycle path on the right hand side of the road. Keep going to reach a set of traffic lights just before Caister and Great Yarmouth Golf Club. Cross the
CYCLING VIDEOS
See this route and more at youtube. com/Caravanand MotorhomeClub
road and continue right along the cycle lane. Follow this road over three roundabouts to reach a set of traffic lights with Lidl on the left and a church on the right.
3
2.9km – Turn right at the traffic lights along Ormesby Road and continue to reach a roundabout.
4 5km – Go straight over the roundabout, signposted to Ormesby and continue for almost 2km to an Esso/Londis station on the right.
5
6.9km – Follow the bend to the left and turn right at the end of a small green, following the one way sign. Then turn immediately left onto North Road and proceed to the T-junction. Turn right at the junction and continue to Hemsby.
6
9.4km – In the middle of Hemsby turn left by the Premier convenience store, signposted to Martham and Potter Heigham. In 1.5km, immediately after passing Hemsby town signs, turn right along Collis Lane, signposted to Somerton. Continue to a T-junction.
7
12.7km – Turn left at the junction, signposted to Cromer. Continue along this road to reach Horsey Windpump (National Trust windmill) and a little farther on Horsey Gap on the right side of the road. It’s a bumpy track down to the dunes, sand and seals.
8 From Horsey Gap retrace the same route back to return to the Club campsite.
