Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine – March 2023

NATURAL WONDERS

Enjoy a magical wildlife tour of Scotland

GREATEST HITS

Where to stay on a great West Country golf break

BE PREPARED

Get your tourer ready for the new season

MEMBER SAVINGS

Offers on batteries, movers, towbars and much more...

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Editorial Editors Gary Martin, John Thynne

Deputy Editor Stuart Egan

Assistant Editors Clare Disano, Stephen Hollis

Design Michaela Millar

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WELCOME

John Thynne says:

As I write there are promising signs that spring is on its way – in England’s south-east, at least, it certainly feels a lot warmer than it did a couple of weeks ago! So now is a great time to read Sammy Faircloth’s article on preparing your caravan or motorhome for the new season (pages 87-88).

I know that many of our hardier members carry on enjoying touring throughout the winter – but lots of us are still at the ‘holiday planning’ stage. From the importance of checking can’t get enough of All Creatures

Great and Small, it’s possible to find a Club campsite near to where the director shouted, “Action!”

tyre pressures/condition and leisure battery levels to water system and fridge care, there’s some good advice in the feature that will help to ensure your first trip of the year is a safe and pleasant one.

If you are still seeking inspiration for your next outing check out our piece on the new trend of ‘setjetting’(pages 22-23) – that is, seeking out the filming locations of your favourite TV shows and movies. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan or

COVER IMAGE: Red squirrel on an old tree stump

Talking of wildlife, take a look at our feature on Scotland (paged 26-36). Writer Karla Baker spotted everything from deer and dolphins to red squirrels and leaping salmon on a magical seven-site tour. And nature lovers are in for another treat on pages 58-61, where regular contributor David Chapman discusses the importance of the ancient trees found in our parklands. If you are planning an early spring break, make sure you give your tourer a thorough check – and let us know how you get on!

Editions of your Club magazine – with lots of extra content – are also available via an app on iPhone/iPad and Android tablets and phones.

President: Thomas Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester

Chairman: Grenville Chamberlain OBE

Director General: Nick Lomas

We would like to thank image libraries Alamy, Getty Images/iStock and Shutterstock for supplying a number of images used in this magazine.

“ Give your tourer a thorough check ”

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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The Caravan Club Limited, which trades as Caravan and Motorhome Club, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for general insurance and credit activities.

This magazine is also available free of charge as a page turner on the Club website and as an app via Google Play or the App Store. For non-members who download the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine app, each issue costs £3.49.

Readers are asked to note that the Caravan and Motorhome Club cannot accept responsibility for the quality, safe delivery or operation of any products advertised or mentioned in this journal. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply any form of approval or recommendation. Advertisements or other inserted material are accepted subject to the approval of the publishers and their current terms and conditions.

The publishers will accept an advertisement or other inserted material only on the condition that the advertiser warrants that such advertisement does not in any way infringe copyright or contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act.

All copy is subject to the approval of the publisher, who reserves the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to it at its absolute discretion and without explanation.

All advertisements must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice.

Mail order advertisers are required to state in advertisements addressed to the public, their true surname or full company name, together with the address from which the business is managed.

Calls to phone numbers starting 084 and 087 cost up to 7p per minute plus your service provider’s charge.

OPINION

Nick Lomas

says:

The Club is, as far as we know, the largest members’ club in the UK. With over 383,000 families in membership, we represent over a million people who enjoy touring holidays and exploring the great outdoors.

So what does it mean to be a members’ Club? The Club is owned by you, our members, and we run it on your behalf. There are no external shareholders taking a slice from any surplus income. Any income we make over our running costs is reinvested in the Club for the benefit of members. That money has recently been put to good use with the acquisition of Dornafield Club Campsite in Devon, and investment projects across the network (see camc.com/redevelopments).

The Club is run by the Executive Committee – its board of directors – who are all members, giving their time voluntarily to steer the Club on your behalf. They are supported by volunteer members who sit on the Club’s specialist committees, which are: Sites and Accommodation Users covers members’ interests in matters concerning sites and CLs; Finance and Management looks after financial, budgeting and employment matters; Technical deals with matters relating to leisure vehicles and towcars, including legislative issues;

Membership is concerned with member behaviour; and Events oversees our annual vehicle awards and ClubFest.

In addition, the Club’s regional structure is administered by a Grants Committee. There are Welsh, Irish and Scottish Divisions and seven Regions in England which hold annual engagement

events such as Question Times. A total of 58 local centres organise rallies and temporary sites for members to enjoy. All are operated by volunteer members (any member can join a centre, whether local to home or where you prefer to holiday). Club members who are not involved directly with a centre are very welcome to sit on the regional and divisional councils as independent members.

The Club welcomes volunteers for roles on all committees or on the Club Council, which helps to shape the direction of the Club and conveys the views of the wider membership to the Executive Committee. The Nominations Committee considers new applications every year and many committees now use virtual technology for flexibility.

At the Club, we are committed to developing diversity within our membership. Differences are celebrated, and we strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected and valued for their unique potential. We want to hear from you if you have thoughts, ideas or experiences that would be valuable to the Club, and a little bit of time to spare, at governance@camc.com

YOUR PHOTOS

Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera

BAY OF PLENTY

A busy day on the water at West Bay, just south of Bridport. (Nearest Club Campsite: Bridport Bingham Grange.)

Jill Tolley

COAT

CHECK

Keeping warm during winter near Castleton Club Campsite. Katie Dudley

VISITING THE VILLAGE

Portmeirion on a sunny day! (Nearest Club campsite: Coed-Y-Llwyn.)

Sally Wilson

SAY CHEESE!

A brown hare poses for the camera. Dawn Biggs

Norfolk

Dorset

Derbyshire

Gwynedd

Yorkshire

BEFORE HAWES THAWS

Adjacent to the Club campsite, Hawes, in mid-December 2022. Deep frost... warm in the caravan though!

Mary Rogers

SCENIC SNOWDONIA

Three views found within the national park and near to Coed-Y-Llwyn Club Campsite. The main picture is Llyn Padarn, Llanberis, while the two insets feature Nant Ffrancon from Llyn Idwal and the old Roman bridge in Penmachno, which spans the Afon Machno.

Alex Strong

BLOOMIN

’ MARVEL

Coleton Fishacre, a 1920s Artsand-Crafts-style house and tropical garden in Kingswear. (Nearest Club campsite: Hillhead.)

Pam Cathcart

Upload

Gwynedd and Conwy

Devon

Holidays for every budget

Caravan and motorhome holidays already offer great value for money. What’s more, as a member of the Club you’ll save £15 per night on all UK Club campsites stays, children under five and dogs stay for free, plus awnings are included at no extra cost.

We cater for the different needs of members by providing a range of site and pitch types – so make sure that you compare the different

options when you book online. The ‘standard’ from price displayed in the calendar view will usually be for one adult and a Hardstanding pitch with electric hook-up. However, you can sometimes book a Non-Electric Economy or Grass pitch with electric hook-up as a cheaper option. When booking online you can see the price and availability for each different pitch type at that campsite – just select the pitch type from the list above the calendar.

Here’s just a taste of the sort of great value breaks you could enjoy this year...

GET BACK TO NATURE IN DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

STAY AT: New England Bay Club Campsite

FROM

New England Bay Club Campsite is an oasis of calm on the shores of Luce Bay. Stay on a Non-Electric Economy Pitch here and pay just £12.60 per night for one adult. Non-Electric Economy Pitches are grass or hardstanding without an electric hook-up, offering extremely good value for money as you save 50% off standard pitch fees. You can also choose from a variety of different pitch types to suit your budget, including Grass with electric hook-up from just £16.20 or Hardstanding with electric hook-up for just £17.20.

(Prices for stays based on pitch and one adult; 10-30 Mar, 25 Sep-5 Oct and 30 Oct-5 Nov 2023)

ENJOY MAGICAL CORNISH SCENERY

STAY AT: St Agnes Beacon Club Campsite

Stay at St Agnes Beacon Club Campsite for as little as £14.70 per night for a Grass Pitch and one adult. Grass Pitches have a shared electric hook-up and can be with or without an awning. As well as unforgettable

We have a campsite and a pitch at a price for every member – check out our selection of great getaway ideas

St Agnes Beacon Club Campsite

Photo by member Jess Ingham

New England Bay Club Campsite

Photo by member Graham Warr

£12.60

FROM £14.70

panoramas of the Cornish coastline you could visit a number of beaches as well as Truro, St Ives and Newquay.

(Price for stays based on pitch and one adult; 25 Sep-1 Oct 2023)

C A A WALL IN CUMBRIA

STAY AT: Englethwaite Hall

Club Campsite

Interested in history and outstanding scenery? Book a pitch at Englethwaite Hall Club Campsite in Cumbria and use it as a base to see Hadrian’s Wall and explore the glorious Lake District. Pay just £15.50 per night for a Hardstanding Pitch and one adult, with electric hook-up and an awning. Or you might like to upgrade to a Serviced Pitch* from just £20.40 per night and enjoy direct access to fresh water as well as grey waste disposal.

(Price for stays based on pitch and one adult; 10-30 Mar, 25 Sep-12 Oct and 30 Oct-5 Nov 2023)

SPEND QUALITY FAMILY

TIME IN NORTH YORKSHIRE

STAY AT: Scarborough West

Ayton Club Campsite

All the fun of the seaside is within easy reach when you visit Scarborough West Ayton Club Campsite. What’s more, guests have access to a newly refurbished children’s play area, games area and games room on site. Stay for just £22.70 per night on a Grass Pitch with electric hook-up or positioned next to the play area on a new Premium Pitch*, which includes drinking water, grey water inlet, picnic bench and barbecue station – prices start from £32.60. Hardstanding with electric hook-up and Serviced Pitches* are also available.

(Price for stays based on pitch and one adult; 10-30 Mar, 25 Sep-12 Oct and 30 Oct-5 Nov 2023)

EXPERIENCE COUNTRYSIDE AND BEACH DELIGHTS IN SOUTH DEVON STAY AT: Dornafield Club Campsite

The Club ’s newly purchased Dornafield site sits in a quiet valley surrounded by beautiful countryside and is ideally placed for visiting the seaside towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. You can book a Serviced Grass Pitch* with electric hook-up here from £17.30 per night for one adult. New Super Pitches* are also available from £19.30 per night and include space for an awning, illuminated electric hook-up bollard (including booster TV aerial outlet), drinking water and a ground-level inlet for grey water or sewage.

(Price for stays based on pitch and one adult; 10-30 Mar, 25 Sep-12 Oct and 30 Oct-31 Oct 2023)

SET OUT ON A HIKE IN THE SCOTTISH BORDERS

STAY AT: Melrose Gibson Park Club Campsite

Melrose Gibson Park Club

Campsite sits in prime walking country – with the Eildon Hills right on your doorstep. Prices start from £20.40 per night for one adult and a Hardstanding Pitch with electric hook-up. Or why not upgrade to a Serviced Pitch from just £25.30 per night?

(Price for stays based on pitch and one adult; 27 Jan-9 Mar, 1 Nov-14 Dec 2023)

EXPERIENCE COASTAL DELIGHTS IN PEMBROKESHIRE

STAY AT: St David’s Lleithyr

Meadow Club Campsite

Water and outdoor sports enthusiasts will be in their element at this Club site nestled among dramatic headlands on the Pembrokeshire coast. Be sure to visit the stunning St David’s

Booking tip

When booking online you can see the available pitch types for each campsite. Select the type that you wish to book and the price in the availability calendar will change automatically.

Don’t forget

Club members save £15 per night on all UK Club campsites stays, children under five and dogs stay for free at all UK Club campsites, while awnings are included at no extra cost at all UK Club campsites when staying on an appropriate pitch type. What’s more, as a member of the Club you also have exclusive access to over 2,200 Certificated Locations (CLs).

Cathedral and nearby Whitesands Bay, renowned for its beautiful sandy beach. Prices from £16.20 per night for one adult and a Grass Pitch with electric hook-up.

(Price for stays based on pitch and one adult; 10-30 Mar, 25 Sep-8 Oct 2023)

ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Book your perfect holiday now with a low deposit from only £25** and free cancellations or amendments up to 21 days before arrival. Members can also book one month in advance of non-members.

Visit camc.com/holidaysforeverybudget to see a full range of value breaks.

Prices correct at time of print . All prices are subject to availability. Grass Pitch availability subject to ground conditions.

* Please note you may need specific equipment to use Serviced, Super or Premium Pitches – please check at time booking

** See camc.com/bookingexperience for more information. The deposit for each stay will either be 20% of the total value of the stay or a £25 minimum. If the price of the stay is less than £25, then the total price of the stay will be required as the deposit.

St David’s Lleithyr Meadow Club Campsite

Photo by member Leighton Collins

Scarborough West Ayton Club Campsite

FROM £15.50

FROM £22.70

FROM £17.30

FROM £20.40

FROM £16.20

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 in the middle of a feld!

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!

Headlines

The latest stories from the touring world

Check out our new ‘How To’ videos

The Caravan and Motorhome Club is launching a series of informative instructional videos in February that will serve as a step-by-step guide to setting up your caravan or motorhome –and we would like you to get involved too.

The collection of eight ‘How To’ videos are presented by our Practical feature writer Sammy Faircloth (right), with assistance from the Club’s Technical Manager Martin Spencer. The videos cover everything you need to know to enjoy a stress-free holiday and are packed with easy to understand tips for beginners and seasoned tourers alike.

The first two videos are available to view on the Club’s YouTube channel and cover how

to prepare your caravan for travel and levelling your motorhome when you arrive on site. Further videos will be released over the following few weeks and will explain basic tasks such as connecting the electricity and water supplies, emptying the waste water, measuring noseweight and hitching to your towcar. To find them go to youtube.com/ caravanandmotorhomeclub and search for the Practical Touring Advice playlist.

The videos will be accompanied by articles in the blog on the Club website (camc.com/blog) and we are also asking members to share their tips and hacks – the best will be considered for use across

our media channels in the future. Please upload videos demonstrating any ideas you think could help fellow members at camc.com/howto or send images and a description to magazine@camc.com

CLUBFEST 2023 –BOOK TODAY!

ClubFest 2023 will take place from 26-29 May in the beautiful grounds of Kelmarsh Hall, Northamptonshire. The all-inclusive package means you’ll be able to enjoy some fantastic live entertainment over the four days on the Raleigh Arena main stage (including Killer Queen, pictured), as well as a variety of free fun activities and sports for all the family. Book your tickets before it sells out and get ready for a fantastic festival experience with friends old and new. Please visit camc.com/ clubfest2023 for more information.

Centre Rally Guide available now

Are you looking for good-value touring fun in 2023? Want to spend some time with like-minded caravanning and motorhoming folk? Then why not pop along to a centre rally?

Held over a weekend – or sometimes longer – these rallies are ideal for families and offer the opportunity to take part in activities, take in the local countryside, visit some fabulous attractions and enjoy the company of fellow ralliers.

With 58 centres, every corner of the UK is covered, so no matter where you live or where you are planning to visit, there are plenty of options.

And you don’t even need to be a member of a centre to enjoy these mini-holidays – although you may subsequently find you would like to join your local group (see camc.com/centres or p680-687 of your Sites Directory & Handbook for further information).

As a starting point, check out our Centre Rally Guide for 2023 – it is available on the Club website (at camc.com/whats-on/events) and will also be added to the March issue of the digital magazine, which can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play by searching for ‘CAMC Magazine’.

An upcoming highlight for many is sure to be the Coronation of King Charles III on Saturday 6 May, and many centres are hosting Coronation rallies to celebrate this special occasion. So, why not give a centre rally a try in 2023? You won’t regret it!

Bailey cover quote

Please note that the sample Caravan Cover quote at the end of our Bailey Alicanto Grande Evora test (p73, February 2023 issue) was incorrect. The correct figure is £447.34. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.

Practical writer Sammy Faircloth is our presenter

News in brief

Two new escorted European tours for wine lovers

EAST LANCS RAILWAY

Our popular Great Savings Guide offer for the East Lancashire Railway is changing from 1 March 2023. The offer will change from ‘2-for-1 on tickets’ to ‘one person travels half-price when accompanied by an adult Freedom of the Line ticket holder’. Please book in advance online to get the best deal. Terms and conditions apply – see camc.com/ greatsavingsguide for details. The line passes by Burrs Country Park Club Campsite.

HALF PRICE

The Club is running 18 different escorted European tours during 2023 – including the following two experiences that are sure to be popular with wine lovers. These trips are carefully put together with members in mind and include a balance of organised excursions and free time. You’ll learn all about the wine production process, plus a friendly Caravan and Motorhome Club tour host will be close at hand for the duration of your holiday.

Wines of the Loire

Price: £2,439 for one outfit plus two people*

Duration/departure:

16 nights/9 September 2023

process with some grape picking. For more information please visit camc.com/overseas-holidays/ tours/european-tours/france/ wines-of-the-loire.

Wines of Alsace

BIRDLAND BONANZA

Birdland Park and Gardens, a popular attraction near Bourton-on-theWater Club Campsite in the Cotswolds, has announced a series of special events for 2023, including a Dinosaur Weekend, Penguin Celebration and ‘Birds Behaving Badly’, for which a quiz trail will reveal amazing birds with the most disgusting habits! See birdland.co.uk for tickets and further information. Club members can get 10% off entry to Birdland via camc.com/ greatsavingsguide. (Please check website for terms and conditions.)

10%

This caravan/motorhome holiday explores one of France’s most magical, châteaux-laden regions and visits a wide selection of wine cellars and estates. Highlights include the incredible Troglodyte wine cellars, tasting sessions at local vineyards and even a chance to take part in the harvesting

Price: from £2,599 for an outfit plus two people*

Duration/departure:

14 nights/15 June 2023

The Alsace region is best known for the white grape, Riesling, but you’ll get to discover so much more on this caravan or motorhome holiday, which includes tastings at a variety

Travel and touring books

Are you looking for some inspiration ahead of the main touring season, or perhaps something to read while you are out and about this year? If so, the following books may be of interest...

Riding Out by Simon Parker tells the inspirational true story of a man who battled grief and anxiety on a 3,500-mile adventure around Britain. The author is a travel writer, newspaper columnist and broadcaster who has reported from over 100 countries.

SHOW CANCELLATION

Go Explore, a touring, camping and outdoor activity show that had been due to take place from 24-26 March 2023 at Farnborough International, Hampshire, has been cancelled. Show organisers QD Events stated that the show will now take place in 2024 and have set out information for 2023 ticket holders at goexploreshow.co.uk.

Meanwhile, The Best British Travel Writing of the 21st Century collects some of the finest travel writing of recent times, as judged by respected travel writers Levison Wood, Monisha Rajesh, Jessica Vincent and Simon Willmore. Both titles are out now, priced £9.99 (for paperback versions), and published by Summersdale – see summersdale.com to purchase copies (sold via Amazon).

Camper Heaven by interior stylist and design consultant Dee

Campling showcases incredible campervans and their owners from around the world, while also covering the author’s own van.

Priced £25, it will be published by CICO Books in March. Available from rylandpeters.com as well as a variety of other online retailers.

Additionally, Barbara Millington has self-published Barby's Adventures with Tim Tim, a wry look at her motorhome trips to Europe as a newcomer to the pastime. It is available from a number of retailers in paperback (£19.99) or e-book (£8.99) format, including from amazon.co.uk.

of wine cellars. Highlights of the tour include the Château de Haut-Koenigsbourg, a visit to Riquewhir and a boat trip in historic Colmar. Find out more at camc. com/overseas-holidays/tours/ european-tours/france/ wines-of-alsace.

To see a full list of our escorted European tours, please visit camc. com/europeantours. Itineraries are subject to change and minimum numbers may apply.

*Prices quoted are based on two people travelling together; single and extra person pricing also available.

SHOW TIME

MARCH

17-19 Yorkshire: The Yorkshire Motorhome & Campervan Show, Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate (Warners Shows, see outandaboutlive.co.uk or call 01778 391123)

APRIL

21-23 Cambridgeshire: The National Motorhome & Campervan Show, East of England Showground, Peterborough (Warners Shows, details as above)

Note: details subject to change and pre-registration or tickets may be required – please check websites or telephone event organisers in advance for up-to-date information.

The beautiful Loire

Tourism Minister visits Knaresborough

The Club welcomed the Rt Hon Stuart Andrew MP, Minister for Sport, Tourism and Civil Society, and Minister for Equalities, to Knaresborough Club Campsite in January. The MP for Pudsey was given a tour of the site by Nick Lomas (Director General of the Caravan and Motorhome Club),

Phil Monkman (Regional Manager) and Steve and Jan Fowle (Site Managers).

Afterwards, the Minister said: “It was great to visit Knaresborough Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite today in North Yorkshire – it was easy to see why it is a popular destination for tourers. I am sure that

You recommend...

campsite visitors across the year will also bring a welcome boost to the local visitor economy.”

Nick Lomas added: “It’s always good to hear such positive feedback from Ministers and their acknowledgement of what the Club, and our members, bring to the local community and economy.”

Great Yarmouth Racecourse

“The site is big and very open but there is a good space between each pitch... It is a great place for the beach at both Great Yarmouth and Caister on Sea with good walks to either. There is a short walk to the greyhound stadium and it also doubles as a stadium for banger racing.”

(September 2021)

“An added bonus was horse racing which did not impact on getting in and out of the site, just a short delay if race was in progress.”

(May 2022)

“We booked this site for an Easter break with our grandkids. They are crazy

about horses so we were all waiting for Tuesday race day... The facilities were spot on, the [site staff] were super friendly and helpful...

Great Yarmouth seafront gets proper busy so get there early to find parking and carry pound coins or use the parking app.

Caister Beach we found very close and seemed more sheltered than Yarmouth.”

(April 2022)

INDUSTRY PODCAST

Club magazine contributor John Rawlings hosts the ‘My Caravan Industry Insights’ podcast, which looks at all things touring-related – you can subscribe via podcast providers such as Spotify, Apple, Audible, etc. Club Director General Nick Lomas was a guest for a recent episode – to hear the interview please visit player.captivate.fm/ episode/0fa4f5de-3cce-449e886c-8409e5b85807.

GRANT FOR MOTOR MUSEUM

The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu – home of the Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection –has been awarded a grant of £200,000 from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) and The Wolfson Foundation. Combined with fundraising by the National Motor Museum Trust, the grant will contribute to a project to transform the museum entrance and initial exhibition areas. (Members can get a discount of up to 33% when visiting Beaulieu, which is close to Black Knowl Club Campsite in the New Forest. See camc.com/ greatsavingsguide for details.)

BUSINESS AWARD WIN

Elizabeth Colleran, co-founder and Director of Sales and Marketing at Duvalay, has won a ‘HERA’ award for ‘the most inspirational woman running a business trading for 10 years or more’ as part of the everywoman Awards (everywomanforum.com/ -awards/). Twenty years ago, following the creation of an innovative mattress topper, Elizabeth designed an advert for the Club magazine in order to reach the touring community... an early step along the road to success (she also successfully pitched for investment on the TV show Dragons’ Den). Duvalay’s products are now available across Europe and the company has a turnover of £8m.

Left to right: Steve Fowle, Nick Lomas, Stuart Andrew MP, Phil Monkman

Photo by member Linda Dyer

CALL FOR VOLUNTEER MEMBERS

Are you aware that the Club has a number of dedicated volunteer members that look after the interests of Club members throughout the UK? These are the Club’s Divisions and Regions, and we have a Scottish, Welsh and Irish Division along with seven Regions covering England. The Chair of each of these groups is invited to participate on Club Council, the consultative body of members to the Executive Committee.

The Divisions and Regions have their own councils, which are essentially groups of members who are interested in being part of the Club. These councils meet up to four times a year and meetings are frequently held virtually or as a hybrid meeting for those not able to travel; if you can travel, costs are reimbursed.

The Divisions and Regions get involved in many activities to support and promote the Club, such as ‘Question Time’ events that all members can attend – these give you the opportunity to come along and put questions to Club staff and members of the Executive Committee. There is plenty of opportunity to get involved – see camc.com/about-us for details.

The Scottish Division would love to hear from Club members who live in Scotland and would like to join them. If you are keen to meet fellow tourers and have an interest in being more involved with the Club please contact Jean Gilmour at scottishcaravanclub vchairjg@outlook.com.

Digital Magazine

The digital version of the Club Magazine contains extra content each month – you can download it for free from the App Store or Google Play by searching for ‘CAMC Magazine’. Extras for the March issue include the Centre Rally Guide (see p13), a cycle route from Brecon Beacons Club Campsite, videos to accompany our tests (Coachman Acadia 545, Swift Voyager 584 and Mazda CX-60), Tail Lights and puzzles.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

News from the Club’s Collection

A fascinating book documenting Edwardian caravan and motorhome holidays, written by founder of the Caravan and Motorhome Club J Harris Stone, has recently been conserved and returned to the Club’s historic collection at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu.

The rare 1913 edition of Caravanning and Camping Out provides a snapshot of the hobby in the years before the First World War, when caravans were horsedrawn and only a handful of motor caravans existed.

The book is a vital resource at the Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection when researching the early days of caravanning. Acquired in poor condition, with loose pages and a missing spine, the collection’s copy has now been restored to its former glory.

The pages are full of hints and tips, including how to find good places to camp and where to get

your caravan built. The formation of the then Caravan Club in 1907 is detailed, alongside pictures of the caravans and motorhomes owned by the first members.

Author John Harris Stone (1853-1939) was a barrister and journalist. Having studied natural sciences at the University of Cambridge, his lifelong passion for travel and the countryside made the fledgling hobby of caravanning perfect for pursuing his interests. He became one of the pioneers of the hobby in the early 20th Century, and the founding meeting of the Caravan Club of Great Britain and Ireland took place at his home in London. As the Club’s Honorary Secretary for 28 years, Harris Stone’s writings were pivotal in promoting caravan touring more widely.

Keep up to date with the Club’s collection on Twitter at @camccollection.

Angela Willis

HALF-PRICE TICKET OFFER FOR GOODWOOF

Members of the Caravan and Motorhome Club can get half-price tickets for Goodwoof 2023, a celebration of all things canine, taking place at Goodwood from 20-21 May.

Presented by MARS Petcare, the Goodwoof showground (in the heart of the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex) will host a variety of competitions and demonstrations, while experts will also be on hand to give advice on health, nutrition, behaviour and more. Practitioners in doga (yoga performed by dogs and

their owners together), reiki, dog massage and more will give free classes and the ‘Have-A-Go’ arena offers visitors the chance to teach their dogs new tricks. A variety of bars, bandstands and food outlets will also be available.

Club members can get 50% off adult and young person’s tickets (dogs and children under 12 enter for free). To book, go to goodwood. com/goodwoof and use the code CARAVANMHC50% when you reach the online basket.

Terms and conditions: the 50% offer can only be applied at the online checkout and is valid for a maximum of four adult or young person tickets only. There is no minimum spend. The offer can only be used once per purchaser. The discount offer is available for a limited period only of four weeks from Monday 20 February to Sunday 19 March 2023. There is no cash alternative, and the offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Club founder J Harris Stone (above) and Caravanning and Camping Out (right)

Georgina Preston

So,

Set-jetting in style

Many sites on the network are near to iconic locations

picks!

Have you ever pictured yourself confidently strolling around Downton Abbey like a member of the Crawley family? Or would you like to see some of the stunning backdrops that have been used in the Harry Potter films?

‘Set-jetting’ is a relatively new term that is being applied to the activity of visiting and exploring film and TV set locations while on holiday. With so many of these dotted across the UK, it’s something that Club members can easily partake in while touring.

Here’s just a small selection of campsites that are a short drive away from instantly recognisable spots.

1

Netflix’s epic series The Crown has dramatised the ups and downs of the Royal Family across five seasons to date, and the Cairngorms National Park is the place to go if you are a fan. The Rothiemurchus Estate stood in for Braemar and its famous Highland games gathering during season four, while Ardverikie House doubles as Balmoral Castle. (As a bonus, the Ardverikie Estate was also the location for the BBC’s Monarch of the Glen and appears in the films Mrs Brown and Salmon Fishing in the Yemen. While there is public access, please note that vehicles are not allowed onto the estate – see ardverikie.com for details.) Stay at Grantown-onSpey Caravan Park Affiliated Site (AS)

2

Fans of period drama should head for the Chatsworth Estate – where of course Chatsworth Park Club Campsite can be found. The 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice used Chatsworth as the setting for Pemberley – fittingly, as it is believed that the estate inspired Jane Austen during a stay in nearby Bakewell. It has also appeared in The Duchess, Peaky Blinders and The Wolfman

3

Tredegar House, the Carolean stately home that’s just a stone’s throw from Tredegar House Country Park Club Campsite, has appeared in several episodes of Doctor Who, particularly during David Tennant’s first stint as the ‘Time Lord’. Keen telly addicts may also spot the house in Sherlock, the recently-revived Upstairs, Downstairs and the First World War drama Journey’s End.

4

The abandoned engine houses at Botallack on Cornwall’s northern ‘Tin Coast’ have featured in these pages before – and even on the cover of a recent issue! They formed an impressive backdrop to the more recent TV adaptation of Poldark, and Trevedra Farm AS is just down the road.

5

Have you watched Game of Thrones? If so, then the majestic Doune Castle near The Woods Caravan Park AS might look familiar – it was one of the locations used for the setting of Winterfell, the under-siege stronghold of the Stark family. Themed tours are available –see visitscotland.com to book in advance. The castle also played host to Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor in Ivanhoe and appeared in Monty Python and the Holy Grail

6

There are lots of Harry Potter-related film locations across the UK... and lots of Club campsites near them! The majestic Glenfinnan Viaduct near Fort William in Scotland has become linked with the Hogwarts Express, the train that Potter and his wizard pals catch to school (stay at Bunree Club Campsite). And if you head for King’s Cross while visiting Abbey Wood Club Campsite you can see the famous ‘Platform 9¾’, from which the train departs. (While you’re in London, Leadenhall

Market doubled for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone).

Or how about a day out in Oxford, where many scenes were filmed in the university buildings? Several tours operate in the city, which makes for a great day trip from Burford or Henley Four Oaks Club campsites

Durham Cathedral – stay at Durham Grange Club Campsite – also hosted the Potter cast and crew across a couple of the films. There are longer lists of locations online.

that have been used in films and TV shows. Take a look at our

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Photo by member Linda Burgess

Tredegar House

Photo by Veronica Stevens

Spotlight on... glamping pods

Have you tried one of our glamping pods? They’re perfect for a getaway – with all your home comforts – and can be found at a variety of locations across the UK.

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Boasting ingenious use of space, the glamping pods sleep up to two adults and two children. Wide, double-glazed doors, modern insulation and heating keep your room warm and snug at night. Patio doors open out onto a deck, so you can make the most of the outdoors too.

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If you have been glued to Downton, which has made the transition from small to big screen in recent years, perhaps schedule a visit to Highclere Castle in the North Wessex Downs. Instantly recognisable as the grand home featured in the TV show and films, it is possible to visit the castle with pre-booked tickets. Stay at Winchester or Salisbury Hillside Club campsites... and watch out for Dame Maggie Smith’s acerbic Dowager Countess Violet!

Bridgerton has been one of the hits of the past couple of years, with the Regency-set romantic drama making use of a host of locations across England. For example, fans could stay at Bath Chew Valley AS to visit Holburne Museum (aka Lady Danbury’s house), while the famed Royal Crescent has also featured. Meanwhile, fans of Jane Austen might like to know that Bath’s Pump Room features in the novels Persuasion and Northanger Abbey

As well as free Wi-Fi (excluding Troutbeck Head), you also get an en-suite bathroom, barbecue station and freshly-laundered bed linen. Some are dog-friendly, too.

Locations

8

Liverpool’s impressive architecture means that the city often stands in for major cities from around the globe, including Chicago and New York. Recent productions making use of the interiors and exteriors include The Batman, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and Captain America: The First Avenger. Stay at Southport Club Campsite and see how many you can discover.

Please see camc.com or the Club app to book your pitch at a Club campsite and to find links to the Affiliated Sites mentioned. If you visit any famous film or TV locations this year be sure to let us know by uploading your photographs at camc.com/inspiringadventures or by emailing magazine@camc.com. We’d love to hear about your trips!

Our glamping pods can be found in six locations across the UK, including at two campsites in the magical Lake District – why not wake up surrounded by some of the country’s best scenery at Coniston Park Coppice or Troutbeck Head before exploring the fells and lakes at your own pace? Coniston Water, Ullswater, Derwentwater and Windermere are within reach of both sites, as well as charming market towns such as Keswick and Ambleside.

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When it comes to Yorkshire, there’s so much for the avid set-jetter to choose from. The village of Goathland doubled as Aidensfield in the ITV series Hearbeat (stay at North Yorkshire Moors or The Howard, Rosedale Abbey Club campsites), while both the original All Creatures Great and Small and the recent remake have made extensive use of the magnificent Dales scenery. Hawes and Lower Wensleydale Club campsites are your best bet for a James Herriott-themed day out.

Don’t forget, under 5s and dogs stay for free at all UK Club campsites, while awnings are included at no extra cost at all UK Club campsites when staying on an appropriate pitch type. What’s more, as a member of the Club you also have exclusive access to over 2,200 Certificated Locations (CLs).

We also have glamping pods at Cayton Village near Scarborough on the North Yorkshire Coast, Moreton-in-Marsh in the Cotswolds, Abbey Wood in London and Brighton on the Sussex coast – all Club campsites with fantastic discoveries to be made on their doorsteps!

Remember that as a member you can get a 10% discount on bookings, exclusive member offers, and friends and family discounts. To find out more, and to see a range of other glamping options, please see camc.com/ experiencefreedom

Baltic Wharf lease –further extension

Great news about Bristol’s popular Baltic Wharf Club Campsite: the lease has been further extended and the campsite is now open for stays until Sunday 17 December 2023. Pitches are selling fast, so book now to experience the picturesque wharf and all that Bristol has to offer! (Please note that Bristol Zoo – mentioned in the last issue – has closed and is relocating to the Wild Place Project, its sister site.)

Bath’s Royal Crescent

Chatsworth

Durham Cathedral

DAYS OUT FOR LESS

MEMBERS RECEIVE DISCOUNTS AT HUNDREDS OF ATTRACTIONS ACROSS THE COUNTRY THANKS TO OUR GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE. HERE ARE FIVE FANTASTIC DAYS OUT TO CONSIDER...

QUAKER TAPESTRY MUSEUM, CUMBRIA

This fascinating attraction in Kendal uncovers the story of Quaker influence on the world via 40 vibrant tapestries. Made by more than 4,000 men, women and children over the course of 15 years, the tapestries cover 350 years of social history. Club members can claim 20% off adult tickets, while accompanied children go free. Motorhome parking available – contact the venue directly for more details.

Info: quaker-tapestry.co.uk

Club campsite: Kendal

WHISTLESTOP VALLEY, YORKSHIRE

Members can claim a 25% discount on ‘Big Adventure’ tickets at this attraction in Clayton West near Huddersfield, which features narrow-gauge steam engines, a miniature railway, jumping pillow, outdoor playgrounds, dessert parlour, cafe and more. Pre-booking required, offer not valid on special event days.

Info: whistlestopvalley.co.uk

Club campsite: Hebden Bridge

ARK WILDLIFE PARK, LINCOLNSHIRE

This wildlife park and sanctuary is home to guinea pigs, ferrets and sheep as well as exotic animals including crocodiles, bobcats and the Eurasian Lynx. Visit the new Jurassic Ark dinosaur area and the indoor soft play before taking a break at the Kalahari cafe, which offers hot food, cakes and savouries. Members can take advantage of a 20% discount on the entry fee (does not apply to café/gift shop or animal experiences).

Info: arkwildlifepark.co.uk

Club campsite: Skegness Sands AS

Please visit camc.com/greatsavingsguide for vouchers, discount codes and pre-booking where relevant, as well as terms and conditions for all offers. Please check site and attraction opening dates and times before visiting/travelling.

BLENHEIM PALACE, OXFORDSHIRE

Set within 2,000 acres of Capability Brown-landscaped parkland, Blenheim Palace is the home of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Club members can claim a 20% discount on the Palace. Park and Gardens ticket, which includes entrance to the Palace State Rooms and a free audio guide. Pre-booking required.

Info: blenheimpalace.com

Club campsite: Burford

CHILD GOES FREE

SCOTLAND’S SECRET BUNKER, FIFE

A farmhouse in St Andrews conceals the entrance to one of Scotland’s best-kept Cold War secrets. In 1953 the 24,000sq ft ‘R3’-style bunker was built by the RAF in response to the threat of nuclear war. Check out radar technology of the era, the dormitory, plotting rooms, mess and more... One child goes free when accompanied by a full paying adult.

Info: secretbunker.co.uk

Nearest Club campsite: Balbirnie Park

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

See camc.com for the latest site information. We also recommend that you check with businesses and attractions that are featured regarding opening dates and times.

The elusive red squirrel and dolphins (right) were on Karla’s spotting wishlist

A wee wildlife

tour

Karla Baker takes us on an inspirational seven-site Scottish trip, taking in some of the country’s most magical wildlife

It’s so easy to fall in love with Scotland. It’ll draw you in with promises of towering mountains and shimmering lochs, only to leave you wanting more. My partner Stephen and I rediscover this whenever we venture up there, finding something new each time. Its plentiful rugged and natural areas are among our favourite places to visit, offering awe-inspiring views and, if you’re lucky, glimpses of some of the wonderful wildlife that calls Scotland home. We had our fingers crossed that we’d be able to tick some more examples off our list on our most recent trip.

We began our tour just north of the ScotlandEngland border, at the family-run Lidalia Affiliated Site (AS), located in the quiet village of Newcastleton. Although we were managing our expectations about how much wildlife we would see on this trip, we took it as a good omen when we pitched up by one of the site’s two duck ponds, .

Flowing along the eastern edge of Newcastleton, and within walking distance of

Lidalia Affiliated Site

Close to the village of Newcastleton in the Scottish Borders, this site is perfect for a peaceful break.

Pitches: 30

Max outfit length: 9m

Member view

“We picked this site because it’s in a village with shops and pubs, and were delighted to find a warm welcome... Walking around the village lanes and by cosy cottages and the river is so peaceful.”

Carol

Site view

“Our site is very popular with people who enjoy walking and cycling, because of the many walking routes and mountain bike trails that are close by. It’s also great for motorhomers as everything in the village is within walking distance. The old railway line gets a lot of interest too.”

Shona and Gillian

Food & drink

The Olive Tree, 38 South Hermitage St, Newcastleton

TD9 0QE

Contact: 01387 375479

Culture

Hermitage Castle, Newcastleton

TD9 0LU

Contact: historicenvironment. scot, 01387 376222

Outdoor fun

Broom Fisheries, Broom Farm

Estate, Newbie, Annan

DG12 5PF

Contact: broomfisheries.co.uk, 01461 700386

Member offer available: see camc.com/greatsavings guide for details, terms and conditions

For the family

Rock UK, Whithaugh Park, Newcastleton TD9 0TY

Contact: rockuk.org, 01387 375394

Yellowcraig Beach

BOOKING INFO

For the latest details and opening information for all our sites, please see camc.com

the site, is Liddel Water – a river that forms a glistening country border. The signposted riverside walk offers a gentle stroll along a paved path, and provides plenty of opportunities to relax, picnic or fish.

YOUNG LOVE

A stay in the Scottish Borders wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Gretna Green. Historically famous for runaway weddings, the village still has romance at its heart, and these days is a five-star attraction with its Courtship Maze, shops, cafes and more. The immersive Gretna Green Experience transported us back in time, teaching us how

the area saw an influx of young couples fleeing north of the border in the 18th century, when English marriage laws tightened. Three centuries later, couples can still exchange vows here, but it takes a little more preparation!

Taking the winding roads north, you’ll find Springlee Certificated Location (CL) surrounded by rolling countryside but close enough to the towns of Melrose and Kelso. A 20-minute drive from the CL is the Philiphaugh Salmon Viewing Centre. Parking up, we took a short walk along the smooth path to the weir on the River Ettrick, and were elated to see a shoal of shiny salmon leaping up the fish ladder. Battling

“ I inhaled the fresh sea breeze and a sense of calm washed over me ”

Near Yellowcraig Club Campsite

Photo by member Helen Peters

strong currents as well as gravity, one by one these determined creatures throw themselves upstream on a journey that is nothing short of remarkable.

Continuing our own (less remarkable, but perhaps more relaxed) journey, we headed farther north, to Yellowcraig. Surrounded by golf courses, this Club campsite has mostly grass pitches, giving it a relaxed feel. One of the site’s biggest appeals is its close proximity to the golden sands of Yellowcraig Beach. As soon as we heard that the walk there was less than half a mile long and suitable for wheelchair users, we set off in the golden glow of the early evening sunshine, in search of sea views. After passing through a short section of woodland, the trees gave

Above from top: Concorde at the National Museum of Flight; Liddel Water and bridge at Newcastleton; Karla at Gretna Green

way to long, wavy beach grass, with the pathway continuing down to the sand. Perching myself on the decked lookout platform, I inhaled the fresh sea breeze and a sense of calm washed over me.

FEELING SUPERSONIC

The following day we made our way to the National Museum of Flight. Housed in the original wartime buildings of RAF East Fortune, it showcases a host of historic aircraft as well as more recent models.

This large attraction is spread out across various hangars, with disabled parking spaces conveniently located outside each one, allowing less mobile people to drive between them. Club members enjoy a 50%

Springlee Certificated Location

Situated on a working farm in the heart of the Scottish Borders, this site offers a rural escape with far-reaching views of the surrounding countryside.

Sites Directory & Handbook 2023/24 p522

“Visitors choose Springlee for its central location within the Scottish Borders, to visit the many country houses, castles, abbeys and gardens, as well as the great cycle routes and walks. Scott’s View is right on our doorstep, reputed to be one of Sir Walter Scott’s favourite views.”

Pam

Food & drink

Hunters Stables Wine Bar and Bistro, Main Street, St Boswells TD6 0DF

Contact: huntersstables.co.uk, 01835 822710

Culture

Floors Castle, Kelso (sat-nav postcode TD5 7RN)

Contact: floorscastle.com, 01573 223333

Outdoor fun

Galashiels Golf Club, Ladhope Recreation Ground, Galashiels TD1 2NJ

Contact: galagolfclub.co.uk, 01896 753724

For the family

Jim Clark Motorsport Museum, 44 Newtown St, Duns TD11 3AU

Contact: liveborders. org.uk, 01361 883960

discount on the price of entry – you can find out more at camc.com/greatsavingsguide.

After a bite to eat in the Aviator Café, we headed for the main attraction – The Concorde Experience. Have you ever seen the underbelly of a Concorde? I’m no aviation expert, but I can tell you that my first glimpse of it gave me goosebumps. Entering the hangar, Stephen and I looked up in awe, unable to mutter a single word other than ‘Wow!’ Around the edges of the building were exhibits packed full of interesting artefacts and information, while the iconic

aircraft was the centrepiece, standing tall and commanding the attention of everyone around her. Its days of flying at twice the speed of sound came to an end in 2003, but having been laid to rest at East Fortune, it’s still enjoyed by many people – and I feel fortunate to have been one of them.

From the 26m wingspan of Concorde to the still-impressive 2m wingspan of a northern gannet, the following day we continued our search for wildlife. Just a 10-minute drive from Yellowcraig is the coastal town of North Berwick, which looks out to Bass Rock – home

Yellowcraig Club Campsite

A relaxed site just a stone’s throw from the golden sands of Yellowcraig Beach.

Pitches: 112

Max outfit length: 9.2m

Member view

“We love visiting for the beach, and the accessible look-out means that I can see the sea from my wheelchair. The dog loves it too! The nearby village of Dirleton also has a great market every Sunday.”

Pat and Dave

“Guests love the site for the beach, and the area is very dog-friendly. Our site is very popular with golfers, especially during the Scottish Open and other tournaments.”

Jacquie, Philip, Sam and Darren

Food & drink

Drift coffee house, Quarrel Sands, near North Berwick EH39 5PL Contact: driftalong.co.uk, 01620 892817

Culture

Tantallon Castle, near North Berwick EH39 5PN

Contact: historicenvironment. scot, 01620 892727

Outdoor fun

Sula Boat Trips, North Harbour Pier, Harbour Terrace, North Berwick EH39 4JW

Contact: sulaboattrips.co.uk, 01620 849289

For the family

Scotland’s Secret Bunker, Crown Buildings, Troywood, Nr St Andrews KY16 8QH

Site view CHILD GOES FREE

Contact: secretbunker. co.uk, 01333 310301

Member offer available: see camc.com/greatsavings guide

Scan here to book a pitch at Yellowcraig Club

Campsite

Illustration: Louise Turpin

“ Scotland draws you in with promises of towering mountains and shimmering lochs ”

Edinburgh’s famous skyline Edinburgh Club Campsite

Located on the outskirts of the city, this site is ideal for accessing the many popular attractions that Scotland’s capital has to offer.

Pitches: 146

Max outfit length: 11.6m

Member view

“We love this site for cycling. There are great routes along the esplanade and into Leith.”

Clare and Jon

Site view

“People come here from all over Europe to explore the city of Edinburgh. It’s also a popular stepping-stone for people to begin the North Coast 500.”

Mike and Danielle

Food & drink

The Herringbone, 2 S Trinity Road, Edinburgh EH5 3NR

Contact: theherringbone.co.uk, 0131 552 3292

Edinburgh Castle, The Esplanade, Edinburgh EH1 2NG

Contact: edinburghcastle.scot, 0131 225 9846

Outdoor fun

Royal Botanic Garden

Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5LR

Contact: rbge.org.uk, 0131 248 2909

For the family

Culture Edinburgh Bus Tours, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh

Contact: edinburghtour. com, 0131 475 0618

Member offer

available: see camc. com/greatsavings guide

Scan here to book a pitch at Edinburgh Club Campsite

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to 150,000 northern gannets (the world’s largest colony). Home to a conservation and education charity, the Scottish Seabird Centre was the ideal place to find out more.

Inside, we were warmly greeted by the team, whose enthusiasm for the environment quickly shone through. Did you know that a staggering 52% of Europe’s seabirds migrate to Scotland during the breeding season, thanks to its rich and diverse coastline? In the Discovery Experience we found out even more about marine life and the environment, the interactive exhibits providing a fun and educational day out for all ages.

CAPITAL GAINS

Continuing our journey along the coast, we found ourselves at the popular Edinburgh Club Campsite, conveniently located on the outskirts of the city. We’re not usually city people and prefer calm countryside to the rat-race, but Scotland’s capital is different. Instead of skyscrapers, there are quaint cobbled streets lined with medieval stone

“ Edinburgh is oozing with history and culture ”

buildings, and the castle looms over the city, keeping a watchful eye.

Edinburgh is oozing with history and culture, so we couldn’t wait to get stuck in. The Royal Yacht Britannia was first on our agenda, having been docked in the historic port of Leith since its decommissioning in 1997. Just seeing the ship from the outside is awe-inspiring, but stepping aboard is another

Opposite, inset: at the Scottish Seabird Centre

Above: the scenic Three Lochs Forest Drive matter! As we wandered around the elegant rooms, it was easy to imagine the Royal Family holidaying on it, and having important meetings with some of the world’s most influential people. The audio guide offered fascinating insights, which only enhanced the experience of being inside a floating royal residence. (See camc.com/greatsavingsguide for a 10% ticket discount for Club members.)

The Woods Caravan Park

Affiliated Site

A tiered site offering views of the Ochil Hills, and a variety of things to see and do nearby.

Pitches: 100

Max outfit length: 10.66m

Member view

“We really enjoyed seeing The Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel. The views from the site are unbeatable.”

Site view

“We’re in a very central location, with a 40-minute drive to both Glasgow and Edinburgh, and easy access to the motorways heading north and south.” Eilidh

Food & drink

The Woodsman (on-site restaurant)

Contact: 01259 760663

Culture

Stirling Castle, Castle Wynd, Stirling FK8 1EJ

Contact: stirlingcastle.scot, 01786 450000

Outdoor fun

Jackie and Peter Go Ape Aberfoyle, The Lodge – Forest Visitor Centre, Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Aberfoyle FK8 3SX

Contact: goape.co.uk, 01603 895500

10%

Member offer available: see camc.com/greatsavings guide

For the family

Stirling Old Town Jail, St John Street, Stirling FK8 1EA

Contact: oldtownjail.co.uk, 01786 595024

Bass Rock near Yellowcraig

Photo by member Eric Ness

Edinburgh Club Campsite

Photo by member Sandra Sutherland

Main image: The Kelpies at night

Insets (opposite) from top: Chanonry Point; the Queensferry Crossing; walk from The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre

Lochlane

Certificated Location

Situated on a farm in the heart of Perthshire, this peaceful site is within easy reach of picturesque riverside walks and the market town of Crieff.

Sites Directory & Handbook 2023/24 p520

Site view

“Members come here mostly for the hill views and the peace and quiet. We’re in a great location for dog walking, with direct access to the river, and Comrie Croft is just a few miles away, which is great for mountain biking. The Glenturret Distillery is also just a few miles away.”

Gordon

Food & drink

The Tower, 81 East High St, Crieff PH7 3JA

Contact: thetowercrieff.com, 01764 650050

Culture

Drummond Castle Gardens, Muthill, Crieff PH7 4HN

Contact: drummondcastle gardens.co.uk, 01764 681433

Outdoor fun

Comrie Croft Bikes, Braincroft, Crieff PH7 4JZ

Contact: comriecroftbikes.co.uk, 01764 670140

For the family

Auchingarrich

Wildlife Centre, Comrie, PH6 2JE

Contact: auchingarrich

wildlifepark.co.uk, 01764 679469

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, we discovered an oasis of wildlife at Figgate Park. This little nature reserve is home to an array of tree species, and is a paradise for coots, moorhens and herons, with Heron Island sitting in the centre. Passing under a tunnel of weeping willows, we found a boardwalk which allowed for a peaceful stroll out onto the pond. It was hard to believe that we were still in the capital, the hum of traffic having been replaced with birdsong.

TIERS OF JOY

Crossing the River Forth, the hills rose around us and the landscape turned greener as we arrived at our next stop – The Woods Affiliated Site. This tiered site sits on a hillside, with each

pitch boasting spectacular views of the Ochil Hills. We were lucky enough to be greeted by one of the most colourful sunsets we’ve ever had the pleasure of witnessing.

Once the sky had turned from peachy pinks to a star-studded velvet backdrop, we headed to Falkirk to see the famous Kelpies sculpture. Horses aren’t the first creatures to spring to mind in relation to Scottish wildlife, but this pair of 100ft-tall statues honours the horses that played such a key role in the country’s industrial past. Previously we’ve visited during the day, but it’s a completely different experience when illuminated after dark!

The next day we headed to the picturesque Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.

Tony Gage

As the weather looked a little iffy, we began with a driving tour along the Three Lochs Forest Drive – a scenic track that passes, you guessed it, three lochs! The route is only seven miles long, but the drive took us over an hour as we wanted to soak it all up. Whether you walk, cycle or drive, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in nature, regardless of the weather or your ability level.

By the afternoon it was brightening up, so we popped to The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre for a woodland walk along its marked accessible route. Surrounded by gigantic pine trees, we followed the sound of a waterfall. It soon came into view and we were reminded once again how much we love Scotland. Time it right, and you may be lucky enough to

observe red squirrels further along the path; rangers leave treats out for them at a dedicated hide, but our luck was out.

Our final destination was Culloden Moor Club campsite to the north near Inverness, but if you fancy more time exploring ‘the Trossachs’, a good stopping point on the way is Lochlane CL, situated outside of Crieff. A working farm offering hardstandings, it has great views of the surrounding countryside, and there are numerous attractions just a short drive away. These include The Glenturret distillery (with newly-refurbished cafe), Auchingarrich Wildlife Park and Drummond Castle Gardens. Golfers wishing to test their mettle on one of the world’s most prestigious courses could even visit Gleneagles.

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Culloden Moor Certificated Location

Situated close to Inverness, the Moray Firth and the Cairngorms National Park, there is endless exploring to be done.

Pitches: 77

Max outfit length: 9m

Member view

“We came here for our first trip in our campervan, because we wanted the safety net of being on a Club site where you know everything is up to a high standard.”

Allison and Amanda

Site view

“People who are interested in history love this site for its close proximity to Culloden Battlefield and Fort George.”

Marcela

Food & drink

The Kitchen Brasserie, 15 Huntly Street, Inverness IV3 5PR

Contact: kitchen restaurant.co.uk, 01463 259119

Culture

Culloden (battlefield and visitor centre), Inverness IV2 5EU

Contact: nts.org.uk

Outdoor fun

Dolphin Spirit (boat trips), Stadium Road, Inverness IV1 1FF

Contact: dolphinspirit.co.uk

For the family

The Highlanders’ Museum, Fort George, Ardersier, Inverness IV2 7TD

Contact: thehighlandersmuseum. com, 0131 3108701

5% GIFT SHOP DISCOUNT

Member offer available: see camc.com/greatsavings guide

Scan here to book a pitch at Culloden Moor Club Campsite

“

A completely different experience after dark ”

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

THOSE WHO WAIT…

The wildlife-spotting opportunities continued as we visited Argaty Red Kites birdwatching lookout and The Scottish Deer Centre, and passed plenty of fields of highland cows. But it was time to head onwards for Culloden Moor. Nestled on a hillside with views over the Nairn Valley, this Club campsite is close to Inverness, the Black Isle and within reach of Glen Affric, where we explored the enchanting woodland around Plodda Falls.

Although it’s not the most wheelchairfriendly venue, we successfully made it to the viewpoint suspended over the apex of a 46m cascading waterfall. It’s quite an experience to be eye-to-eye with the tops of Douglas firs, the mist encasing the treetops only making it more atmospheric. Just when I thought the experience couldn’t be any more memorable, and right when I least expected it, an orange blur flashed across the path in front of me. The elusive red squirrel!

Still buzzing from my sighting, the next day we engaged our sea legs and headed to Inverness harbour for a boat trip with Dolphin Spirit. The Mischief Wildlife Experience offers high-speed thrills and the opportunity to spot dolphins seals and more, but we opted for the more accessible Spirit Cruise into the Moray Firth.

A birdwatcher’s dream, a gentle journey allows you to really absorb the scenery while looking out for curlews, ospreys, seals and otters.

Back on dry land, our road trip was coming to an end, but there was time for just one more stop – a visit to Chanonry Point. This peninsula extends out into the Moray Firth, and is known as one of the best places in the world to see dolphins from the shoreline. Regardless, it’s a beautiful place to pass time and, sitting on the beach under calm skies, we remained hopeful of catching a glimpse. Soon, there was a commotion from the small crowd that had gathered. Was it a dolphin? No. We looked out eagerly, only to see a couple of seals bobbing along. Then, all of a sudden, the unmistakable shape of a fin arched up from the water, closely followed by a tail.

It was the best possible end to what had been a fantastic trip. Mother Nature may play by her own rules, but show a bit of patience and she might just let you win. And even if she doesn’t, you’ll have fun trying!

Below: boat trips from Inverness harbour provide the opportunity to spot ospreys, seals... and even otters

Drummond Castle Gardens

Near Lochlane CL

Photo by Grahame Gage

Tony Gage

“ An orange blur flashed across the path in front of me ”

SHOPPING

FANTASTIC ENTERTAINMENT FROM 11AM DAILY

CHASING

MUMFORD

DEAD DOLLS

SPLINTERED UKES

STEREOSONICS

THE JESSE JANES

VERY BEAUTIFUL SOUTH

ONSIDE BRIT POP EL SHEERAN

FLO & B

SAMMY SARFAS

TAYNEE LORD & THE CROOKS RHIANNON PAIGE

THE ROCKABELLAS AMBER T

YOGA FORAGING

MENTAL HEALTH TALKS

SILENT DISCO

BREATH WORKSHOPS

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURES OR DAY TICKETS ONLINE

CL SITES UPDATES

CL SITES

Also see the CL section of the Club website (camc.com) for the most up-to-date information on 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 2023/24 Sites Directory & Handbook. They are listed here using the same number, unless otherwise specified.

NEW CLS

SUFFOLK

LOWESTOFT (3m SW) – Ivy House Farm Stables, Mr Neil and Mrs Luz Sage, Ivy Lane, Carlton Coleville NR33 8HY. 07905 004607; ivyfarmcampingcl@outlook.com.

134:TM513919; 52.46733, 1.698661. OAY; 0.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; sl pitches; levelling blocks req; grass; fr £15 (pitch + all occ). Please note this CL was incorrectly named ‘Southview’ in the February magazine.

WARWICKSHIRE

STRATFORD-UPON-AVON (5.3m

S) – Whitchurch Farm, Miss Annabel James, Wimpstone, Stratford-uponAvon CV37 8PD. 01789 450350; 07312 831781; annabel.ejames@ outlook.com.

151:SP220485; 52.134854, -1.679069. OAY; 0.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; 16A; peaceful; ideal for families; views; wkg fm; price fr £22 (pitch + all occ).

WORCESTERSHIRE

PERSHORE (2.5m N) – Hyde Farm Caravan Site, Mrs Annie Jaques, Hyde Farm, Worcester Road, Pershore WR10 2DX. 07975 877960; hydefarmcaravans@innuo.co.uk .

150:SO943489; 52.138629, -2.084004. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 0.5 acre; adults only; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; 16A; peaceful; commercial site adj; views; lawned; wc (sh); shwr (sh); price fr £20 (pitch + all occ).

WALES

CARMARTHENSHIRE

CROSS HANDS (3.4m NE) – The Swallows, Mr Martin and Mrs Claire

Mack, Glanlash, Caerbyn, Ammanford SA18 3EJ. 07811 942872; 07790 120770; clairelmack@outlook.com.

159:SN597147; 51.8136, -4.0360. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 0.5 acre; not suitable for MH’s; adults only; dogs; adv bkg req; unfenced water; hdstdng; grass; max o’fit length: 5mtrs; peaceful; views; lawned; wc (sh); shwr (sh); price fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

UPDATES

IMPORTANT: Nightly fees may differ from those published in the Directory due to a change in ownership or business costs. 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.

41 HUNTINGDON –Manor Farm. Email changed to roycollett21@outlook.com.

98 SANDBACH – Cameo Adult CL. Additional info: smholding; fresh eggs; fully serviced pitches; static caravan avail; secure pet exercise/ agility area; landscaped gdns; free herbs; fire pit inc wood.

210 BARNARD CASTLE – Viewforth Meadow. Now has two hardstanding pitches and three grass pitches.

305 BUXTON – Blackwell Hall. Contact number now available: 01298 85271.

444 TAVISTOCK – Ottery Park Farm. New email: carolyn3badge@gmail.com.

737 HYTHE – The Spinney. New email: thespinneycl@gmail.com.

880 HORNCASTLE – Grange Farm. New owners: Thady and Traci Griffith. New tel: 01507 534227.

883 HORNCASTLE – Thimbleby House Farm. New owners: Mrs Sarah & Mr Max Frick. New tel: 01507 526361; 07979 616933.

918 SKEGNESS – Corner Farm. Now adult only.

938 SPALDING – Bluebell Field. Open all year.

939 SPALDING – Burrells. Now adult only.

1294 BURNHAM-ON-SEA – Last Hope Farm. Mobile no: 07799633516. Email: amlproducts@hotmail.com.

1639 BRIDLINGTON – Hartendale Farm. New owner: Jane Kay; 01262 850 318; jandgkay@gmail.com.

Coordinate adjustment: 54.108988, -0.12823.

1666 HULL – Tudor Springs.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Directions should read: “At 6th rndabt (Skidby) take 3rd exit B1233 Cottingham for 1m.”

1826 DEWSBURY – Savile Town Wharf Marina. Additional tel no: 07723 017584 (10am-5pm Mon- Fri).

CLOSURES

1626 UPTON UPON SEVERN – Furlongs Farm. 1952 DRYMEN – Dunallan.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

See camc.com for the latest site and CL information. 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.

Please remember that CLs are privately-owned businesses. If you make a booking and subsequently don’t show up, a 20% loss will be incurred by the CL owner if that pitch cannot be resold. So, if you have to cancel a booking, please give the CL owner as much notice as possible. CL owners have individual cancellation policies so charges may be incurred if you cancel or don’t turn up.

ENGLAND

Bredon Hill near Pershore

Together we can make a di erence

The day-to-day cost of utilities on the UK Club campsite network remains high, mainly due to global energy prices. In fact, electricity prices have more than tripled since 2019.

To help balance these rising costs and ensure we can continue to reinvest and maintain our high quality sites, we had to apply price increases across our Club campsites.

As we’re sure you’re aware, the Club uses revenue generated from site fees to both partially offset operational costs, and to provide a surplus for reinvestment back into improving the Club and UK campsites for the benefit of members. During 2023 almost £16m will be invested in improving, developing and maintaining Club campsites for our members.

It’s not just about cost challenges, but also about how sustainable we are. We are all responsible for playing our part in protecting the environment, for example by reducing water usage, recycling waste, choosing sustainable products and saving energy. As part of our effort to make the Club more sustainable, we are asking all members to consider the amount of energy they use while staying on our campsites. We have been working with Green Tourism (the Club’s sustainability partner) for a number of years to help us. We have produced some on-site posters that provide hints and tips on reducing energy consumption.

By making these small changes during your stay, you can really help make a difference: Turn off lights and appliances when going out for the day

Close curtains or blinds at night to keep your outfit warm

Avoid using electric awning heaters

WHAT IS THE CLUB DOING? Metering

Many members have asked when the Club will introduce on-pitch electric metering. We have spent the past 12 months researching the market to find a metering solution and we are exploring two options that we will trial this year.

The first trial will be carried out at Wyatt’s Covert Club Campsite in Buckinghamshire from late spring. The second site is Ashridge Farm in Hertfordshire – the trial is expected to take place during the latter part of 2023. These trials will help us understand how easy the metering solutions are for members to use and importantly how much this helps reduce the use of electricity. More information will be provided ahead of the trial.

Renewable energy

The Club has created an Energy Reduction Working Group which is focused on driving

down the usage and the cost of energy in the future. There is a key focus on renewable energy, including the addition of photovoltaic panels on all new developments (currently only on facility blocks, but this may soon be extended to all suitable roofs on the campsite); also, the use of ground source heat pumps and heat recovery units. Low energy light bulbs are also in use and we continue to trial solar lighting solutions on some sites to measure their effectiveness. See page 56 of the January magazine for more details.

Natasha Shane, the Club’s new Head of Strategic Product Development and Sustainability, discusses some of the challenges the Club is facing with the rising cost of electricity, how we are responding and how you can help

Above: Natasha Shane

Left: an example of bollards being used in our metering trial

Wyatts Covert Club Campsite in Buckinghamshire

NEW

Where adventure begins...

Getaway on your own terms with the new Discovery range. Lightweight and compact, three new models are launching online from the 9th February. For a closer look, why not join the Bailey team in person at the NEC this February?

Up, up and away

With MTPLMs starting at 1,000 kg, and suitable for a wide range of tow vehicles, the Discovery is the perfect companion for first-timers and seasoned owners looking for a smaller footprint – with new layouts available for up to 4 people. Ultra-lightweight for ultra-flexibility, the compact new models take clever use of space to a whole new level.

Everything and the kitchen sink

Looks can be deceiving – the Discovery may be our smallest caravan yet, but it comes with everything you need for easy living on the go. Cook up a storm in the Thetford Triplex combination oven and grill with 3 gas burners and keep your le overs fresh for tomorrow’s lunch in the Dometic 98 litre refrigerator. Practicality is also guaranteed in the Discovery with a cleverly designed washroom that includes an on-board shower.

E ortless driving from the get-go

Easy to tow, easy to site, easy to store. All Bailey caravans are designed with safety in mind, for comfortable, fuss-free adventures on the road. The Discovery features a unique Alu-Tech wrap-around bodyshell profile for improved aerodynamics when driving, as well as an AL-KO stabiliser hitch and alloy wheels for added stability. Plus, comfort is always guaranteed with the Discovery’s Truma combi heating system, whether you’re hiking up snowy peaks or settling in for a sunny weekend by the sea.

Wherever you want to go, go with The Nation’s Favourite…

View the full Discovery range on display at the NEC show this February.

Your chance to have your say. The writer of our Star Letter will receive a £30 National Trust Gift Card

STAR LETTER

ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE

Thought you might be interested in the story of our N126 caravans. Originally built in Poland in the 1980s to be towable by the Polski Fiat, the design continues to this day. MERZ Gallery in Sanquhar, Scotland, has four N126s of varying vintage. Here they’ve become ‘art-houses’, painted and refurbished to provide art-themed summer accommodation for artists, one art-house recalling the work of Kurt Schwitters, a second the work of Hannah Höch and the third recalling Soviet-era filmmakers from Eisenstein onwards. Our third art-house serves as a mobile recording studio to cover arts and book festivals.

Dr David Rushton, via email

We are planning this year’s adventure which will involve the use of quite a few CLs.

One of the things that really helps to choose a CL is other members’ reviews. However, what we are finding is a real dearth of member reviews that could be described as recent, say within the last six months. In some cases there are [a] few reviews, not widely apart in time terms, but polar opposites in opinion.

It would be great to see more people review sites they visit and get the review numbers up.

It really helps others and must be a help to the CLs themselves. Consistent regular feedback gives balance... and allows owners to keep doing what’s right and maybe address what’s wrong – and as members we can make better informed choices.

Graham King, via email

Editor’s comment: If you would like to leave a review of a Club campsite or CL, please see camc. com/club-together/reviews. Your feedback is always welcome!

THE LAKES AREN’T LACKING

Many thanks for your article ‘God’s gift’ in the January edition. [Philip Moon’s] description of the Lake District was well researched and featured many of the lesser known delights.

We have lived here for over 20 years and are sometimes disappointed when magazine articles show the same visitor ‘attractions’ again and again. Unfortunately tourist information is dominated by the larger sites

with their glossy leaflets in every motorway services. During Covid many small businesses suffered badly so a helping hand from the Club is most welcome.

Just one correction... the steam yacht Gondola is not a replica, it was painstakingly restored from a derelict hulk. Next time please have a sail on her, it is magical. Frank and Jean Roberts, via email

We’re relative newbies to motorhoming, having picked up our first one (a 2008 Autocruise Pioneer Jolliet) in June 2022... but we are hooked. For me, a state of total relaxation descends not when the van is set up on site, but literally the second I turn the ignition key and leave our driveway.

Having had a heart attack in February of last year, I look at life in a slightly different way these days, and although the purchase of the motorhome represented a considerable financial commitment, I’m glad the ‘you only live once’ mindset prevailed. What a revelation motorhoming has been!

No other way of holidaying or spending leisure time has ever had such an incredibly relaxing effect on me. Myself, the good lady and our 18-month-old Cockerpoo (that’s him eyeing up the tasty fayre at Chatsworth Farm Shop) decided to spend Christmas on Chatsworth Park Club Campsite in the Peak District. What a place to be!

I’d like to place on record our thanks to the team who keep the Chatsworth Park site so clean and tidy. They do a fantastic job and made us feel totally welcome from the second we arrived, and especially with the get-together over mulled wine and nibbles they organised for guests on Christmas Eve. I cannot praise them or recommend the site highly enough.

It was a fairly long drive up from our home... but what price do you put on absolute relaxation?

Enjoyed some amazing walks over the six days we were there, and fully intend to return at some point during the summer months. Thanks again to the staff at Chatsworth Park and our fellow site guests for making our first motorhoming Christmas a memorable experience.

Kevin Bennett, via email

26 – 29 May

Join

Tickets are on sale NOW

Children under 17 go free

£295 for two Adults

Our all-inclusive package means you get to enjoy some fantastic live on-stage entertainment over four days. Plus why not take part in a variety of free fun activities and sports for all the family.

Live entertainment including:

Join the ClubFest volunteers team

ClubFest is successful thanks to our members who volunteer to work before, during and after the event. We are always looking for new volunteers –if you’d like to join the ClubFest volunteers team then please get in touch. As a thank you for your help you’ll receive a discount to the event. Be part of ClubFest and email us at events@camc.com

well that ends fell...

Big thanks to your staff. I can’t praise enough the lady at head office who helped us out in a tricky situation.

We were travelling to a [commercial] site with my wife’s sister and their outfit for new year; the site phoned us when we were only 40 minutes away to say the site was on flood alert. They could offer us no alternative venue and we sat in a lay-by struggling to find [one] with no joy, so we rang the Club’s head office and a lovely lady chased around to find us both a new destination for that night and the next four to cover new year.

The new venue was Meathop Fell Club Campsite, a wonderful alternative that saved our holiday and will be a regular for us in the future as it’s a real gem. Mark and Anita Dillon, via email

HEAVENS ABOVE!

It was my 70th birthday in December – ‘three score years and ten’! Exactly one week later, the January issue of the Club Magazine arrived. On the front cover I read ‘Touring Heaven. Where will 2023 take you?’

I know that the Club organises holidays to some pretty exotic places, but I had been hoping to visit a few more campsites in this world before moving on to the next. I must remember to take my Club membership card with me when I do go, though.

Gavin

Beaton,

via email

PEDAL POLO

A while back you asked what hobbies your members took part in when using their caravan.

My partner, Peter, is a member of Oakenden Bicycle Polo team and has represented England at the World Bicycle Polo Championships in Buenos Aries, where his team won bronze medals (third place). Back in 2021 we had a mad lockdown purchase and bought our very first caravan. We always said that once Covid restrictions were over, we would use the caravan for travelling to bicycle polo tournaments.

Finally, in 2022, bicycle polo tournaments were able to restart and the first tournament was held in Kent. Four teams travelled from France to compete against four teams from England. Sadly, due to ongoing Covid restrictions in Germany, the Nuremberg team were unable to join us. We took our caravan and arrived the night before the tournament was due to start. We had a great barbecue with the few members of the team who had arrived early with their tents. The next morning we made cups of tea and bacon sandwiches for all those camping and then battle commenced. By the end of the weekend, St Pierre of France came first and Oakenden came second. Nichola Carter, via email

LONG MAY IT CONTINUE

We enjoyed reading the letters in the January magazine, in particular Peter Darkin’s letter about how much caravans have changed in the last 50 years. Our first one was a plywood Paladin with aluminium roof! We loaned it to a hotel chef who took it to a site near Scarborough... unfortunately he wasn’t admitted as it was a ‘fire hazard’. We’ve owned about a dozen caravans since then; our latest, a Unicorn Valencia, my ‘fantasy caravan’ when I was recovering from a new knee joint, bought in 2017.

My treasured purchases have served me well: honeymoon in North Wales in 1971; latterly when we moved house two years ago and lived in our Swift for six weeks waiting for our new house. What a great activity and benefit caravanning is, enhanced by a fantastic Club! Long may it continue.

Phil and Helen, via email

PITCH CHOICE

The article in the January issue of the magazine [Power Plays, p56-57] highlighting energy use was interesting. We all need to cut back on our usage, and the Club is rightly upgrading facilities.

We, as members, can help because many units now have solar panels and better insulation. Yet where are the non-electric pitches on Club sites? If we have to pay for electricity we are going to use it. How about offering non-electric pitches with hardstanding? It’s not all about super sized, everything there for you pitches, it’s about sustainability of energy and members with solar power will help with that if the Club gives them the opportunity.

Diane Newton, via email

Editor’s note: Thanks for your email Diane. The Club does offer non-electric pitches (some of them hardstanding) at 18 sites. Please see caravanclub.co.uk/uk-holidays/usefulinformation/types-of-pitch/non-electriceconomy-pitch-discounts/ for more information. Additionally around 370 CLs provide pitches without EHU – see your Sites Directory & Handbook or individual site pages at camc.com for more details.

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 .

All’s

NEW Avtex Tourer Range

Satellite Navigation for Caravans and Motorhomes

TOURERTHREE

•6.95” (17.7cm) Frameless HD Display guides you to your destination with a pinch-to-zoom, capacitive glass display

•Caravan and Motorhome Vehicle Profile shows speed limits, height restrictions and driver alerts

•New Easily plan arrival to your desired destination using BirdsEye Satellite Imagery to show you where to go

•New Trendy Places, Local Spots and Scenic Routing features help inform you of places that are worth checking out

•New Environmental Zone routing

•Exclusive Caravan and Motorhome Club campsite database

•Extensive European Caravan and Motorhome site databases

•Map updates included via PC, Mac, or WiFi®

•Road Warnings, Elevation Profile and Driver Alerts

•Hands-free features include Bluetooth® calling, smart notifications and voice-activated navigation

•Road trip-ready with Tripadvisor® Traveller Ratings and points of interest (POIs)

•Wireless Backup Camera compatible (not included)

TOURERTHREE PLUS

Everything you get with the Tourer Three and more....

•Integrated HD Dash-Cam

•Integrated Driving Recorder Interface (Save/Take Pictures)

•16GB microSD card

•Simple Mount Solution (non-powered/non-magnetic)

•Garmin Vault Video Cloud Storage

•On Device Video Gallery for reviewing and managing footage

•Driver Safety: Forward Collisions and Lane Departure Warning

•Wireless Backup Camera compatible (not included)

Club Shop

YOUR CLUB SAVINGS

Collectively, members saved over £1.5m between January and November 2022

We have more than 50 Member Offers to choose from – here’s a small selection to get you started! Find out more at camc.com/memberoffers...

QUATTRO

Take the stress away from moving your caravan with a Quattro mover. Members can save £79.95 on the supply and fitting (by Witter Towbars) of a Quattro Diamond Auto-engage Twin Roller with Smart Control (Joy Stick). Other savings are available (with or without fitting) across the range, including on the Quattro Titanium, which picked up the ‘Best Caravan Mover’ title at Practical Caravan Awards 2022. Find out more at camc.com/motormover

NOMAD SOLAR

Solar technology can give you a new sense of freedom during your adventures. Club members save 7.5% on all NOMAD solar kits which can be fitted to motorhomes, campervans or caravans. Find out more at camc.com/nomadsolar

UP TO £67.42

WITTER TOWBARS

10%

UP TO £79.95

ROADCHEF

Boasting 30 locations across the country and offering the likes of free parking for two hours and dog walking areas, Roadchef can provide a relaxing and refreshing break. The company is offering Club members a 20% saving at Costa Coffee, LEON, Fresh Food Cafe or Chozen Noodle. Find out more at camc.com/roadchef

TYREPAL

20%

BBL BATTERIES

BBL Batteries is offering Club members an exclusive 10% discount on all AVON Lithium Technology Leisure Batteries. BBL is an independent battery specialist offering an extensive range of batteries, battery chargers and solar equipment for caravans, motorhomes and van conversions. Find out more at camc.com/bblbatteries

10%

UP TO £55

Members can save 20% (worth up to £55) on TyrePal tyre pressure monitoring systems. The TyrePal TC215B monitor combined with TCSO sensors allows you to keep an eye on the tyres of both your caravan and tow vehicle, while the TyrePal Solar Colour is perfect for motorhomes, cars and campervans. Sensors screwed onto the vehicles’ tyres’ dust caps check pressure and temperature, providing clear visual and audible alerts should anything start to go wrong. Find out more at 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.”

Club member R D Wilson

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

E&P HYDRAULICS

E&P Hydraulics’ self levelling system enables you to get your caravan or motorhome perfectly level and stable at the touch of a button. The company has a network of trained dealers across the UK that can install its system. Club members choosing E&P Hydraulics receive £50 worth of Marks & Spencer vouchers with a new installation. Please visit camc.com/ep-hydraulics for more information.

Lilse Bergen (Club ref: H23)

Well situated for visiting many of Belgium’s most famous cities, this campsite has great facilities for families.

Pitches: 241 (touring)

Open: all year

Price: from £14.83 per night (based on outfit, electric pitch and two adults 1-31 March/ 16 Nov-31 Dec). Correct as of 1 Feb 2023 – check camc.com for latest prices.

Nostalgia trip

Heidi Fuller-Love packs the ’van and relives childhood memories in Belgium and the Netherlands

Site view

“The swimming pond, splash pond and giant playground are the main attractions. Turnhout, Herentals and Antwerp are not far away for a trip, and Bobbejaanland, Hidrodoe, the Kabouterberg in Kasterlee, and Speelstad are also worth a visit.”

Food & drink

Poules Moules, Simon Stevinplein 9, 8000 Brugge

Contact: poulesmoules.be, 0032 50 34 61 19

Culture

Momu fashion museum, Nationalestraat 28, 2000

Antwerpen

Contact: momu.be

Outdoor fun

Diamond district, Hoveniersstraat, 2018 Antwerpen

For the family

Free walking tours Ghent, meet in front of Hostel Uppelink, Sint-Michielsplein 21, 9000 Ghent

Contact: legendstours.be

Scan here to book a pitch at Lilse Bergen

Every summer during my childhood, we would sail to the Belgian port of Zeebrugge in a wooden boat built by my father. From there we would drive along near-empty roads to our family home in the Netherlands (my mother was Dutch), close to the German border. Along the way, we’d always stop in Antwerp, where we’d buy ‘kroketten’ (deep-fried chicken in breadcrumbs) from vending machines.

Decades later, rolling off the ferry – at Dunkirk on this occasion – at the start of our five-day trip through Belgium and the Netherlands, I felt a twinge of anticipation about returning to an area I’d visited so many times in the past.

We headed directly for Bruges, just an hour or so’s drive over the French border. Known as the ‘Venice of the North’ because of its

many canals, it is the capital of West Flanders and has been home to lace-makers since medieval times. The city is also famous for crafting some of the world’s best chocolates, so we stopped off to buy some and to stretch our legs.

After visiting the Sint-Anna Quarter, which is packed with chocolate shops, we wandered through cobbled streets framed by stately medieval buildings and fringed by swan-dotted canals to the Market Square (Grote Markt). There we found buildings as colourful as the pink and yellow marshmallow spekkies my mother used to put in our stockings at Christmas.

A short walk from here took us to the Steenstraat Quarter. Although this area is best known for its stylish shops, it’s also the home of Poules Moules, a gloriously cosy restaurant serving up Belgium’s famous dish of moules frites: hand-cut chips served with

tender mussels in a lightly spiced beer sauce. Tearing ourselves away from this lovely city, we followed an arrow-straight road framed by low brick houses, straggly hedges and ploughed fields to Lilse Bergen, a peaceful site roughly halfway between Eindhoven and Antwerp. The site is surrounded by dense pine forests and centres on a delightful little lake.

The following morning we feasted on the local sweet, curd-stuffed puff pastry Geraardsbergse mattentart with our coffee, before leaving the ’van at the campsite and making the 90-minute rail trip from Gierle to Antwerp, Belgium’s second city.

MULTI-FACETED

Diamond capital of the world and the secondlargest port in Europe, Antwerp is a fascinating blend of historic architecture, cool fashion and modern art. Arriving by train gave us the

opportunity to admire Antwerpen-Centraal, the city’s Art Nouveau station, with its massive central cupola and ornate gilded interiors.

The city’s square-mile Diamond District (Antwerp has an association with the brightly polished gemstones since the mid-15th Century) is just a short walk from the station. Sadly, the DIVA diamond, jewellery and silver museum was closed for refurbishment, but we wandered through the streets admiring the dazzling store windows packed with precious items.

This lively city buzzes with chic shops, especially in area near the Momu fashion museum. We spent a fascinating hour there and then made a quick pitstop for a basket of Belgian chips and a glass of the locally brewed De Koninck beer at a local fritkoten (chip shop). We ended our day at the Rubenshuis, home of the artist, Rubens, which has been converted into a wonderful little museum devoted to the great man’s life and art.

Situated about 60 miles from Lilse Bergen, at the confluence of the Leie and Scheldt rivers, Ghent is another lovely medieval city built around its waterways. On a friend’s advice we stopped off at Vandenbouhede, a shop that sells every imaginable flavour of chocolate, before heading out on one of the city’s excellent free walking tours to see the sights, including the imposing medieval castle of Gravensteen; Graffiti Street, where it’s legal to spray and tag; and the 11th-century Korenlei quay in the atmospheric old town.

The following day we crossed the border into the southern Netherlands and headed for Camping Valkenburg-Maastricht, a delightful forest-shaded site with several pools and good-size pitches. Perhaps best of all, it is within easy reach of Maastricht. A tourist magnet in its own right, though, the town of

Camping ValkenburgMaastricht

(Club ref: H24)

Within easy reach of Valkenburg and its castle, this tree-lined campsite has grassy pitches and two pools.

Pitches: 185 (touring)

Open: 7 Apr-31 Dec 2023

Price: from £20.17 per night (based on outfit, electric pitch and two adults 18 Apr-25 May/ 20 Sep-19 Oct/29 Oct-17 Nov 2023). Correct as of 1 Feb 2023 – check camc.com for latest prices.

Site view

“Our campsite is located at less than 2km from Valkenburg and its many historic sites and only 15km from Maastricht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. It’s an ideal starting point for a nature holiday combined with the cultural attractions of both cities.”

Food & drink

Cafe in Den Ouden Vogelstruys, Vrijthof 15, 6211 LD Maastricht

Contact: vogelstruys.nl, 0031 43 321 48 88

Culture

Valkenburg Castle, Daalhemerweg 27, 6301 BJ Valkenburg aan de Geul

Contact: kasteelvalkenburg.nl, 0031 43 820 00 40

Outdoor fun

Thermae 2000 (spa with thermal waters), Cauberg 25-27, 6301 BT Valkenburg aan de Geul

Contact: thermae.nl, 0031 436 09 20 00

For the family

Rederij Stiphout boat trips, Maaspromenade 58, 6211

HS Maastricht

Contact: stiphout.nl, 0031 43 35 15 300

Bruges’ famous Grote Markt

Left from top: Camping Valkenburg-Maastricht; historic Ghent

Belgium Tourist Board

Valkenburg is a short drive from the campsite. Sitting on the pretty Geul River, Valkenburg is home to the country’s only hilltop castle, and is also famed for its impressive caves in which the Romans mined marlstone.

We took the little train that trundles through labyrinthine passages lined with secret inscriptions and wall murals. Glad to be back above ground, a chairlift transported us to the top of the hill where we soaked up spectacular views over the town and surrounding Limburg region.

We finished the day by fortifying ourselves with big slices of the delicious local fruit pie ‘vlaai’ from Valkenburg’s bakery.

EET YOUR HEART OUT

On the last day of our trip we headed for Maastricht. First stop was the Grand Café de Perroen overlooking Maastricht’s main square, where we had a breakfast of fluffy poffertjes (buckwheat pancakes).

With three Michelin-starred restaurants and countless eetcafés (gourmet pubs), it’s hardly surprising that Maastricht is known as the Netherlands’ culinary capital. We’d come to sample the food, of course, but before tucking in once again we explored

the old industrial Céramique district, where we found trendy boutiques housed in medieval buildings.

Later, we stopped off to admire the Old Masters, medieval sculpture and contemporary art at the bizarrely rocket-shaped Bonnefanten museum. We ended our day spotting kingfishers and ragondin (semi-aquatic rodents) on a two-hour cruise along the Maas – or Meuse, as the French call it.

Our five-day break ended with a trip along memory lane, with a long lazy dinner at Den Ouden Vogelstruys, Maastricht’s oldest café. The chunky bloedworst (blood sausage) was spicy and tender, while the traditional beef casserole, zoervleis, with its sweet and sour sauce, was rich and comforting. Mother would surely have approved.

If Heidi has inspired you to visit Belgium and the Netherlands, please visit camc.com/overseas to book the sites featured (and others). Remember, if you book an overseas site, Eurotunnel or ferry crossing through the Club, you’ll get the lowest price – guaranteed. To find out more see camc.com/lowestprice.

“ We stopped to admire the Old Masters, medieval sculpture and contemporary art at the Bonnefanten museum

Illustration: Louise Turpin

Top: Ghent Castle

Above: Bruges is famed for its chocolate

Belgium Tourist Board Belgium Tourist Board

MAGICAL

Planning an extra special adventure in 2023 or 2024? The experience of an escorted motorhome tour in fabulous New Zealand will stay with you for life...

Wherever you want to s t e su rt u e er m e f t e a

We offer free cancellations* if the FCDO advises against travel to your destination and have ABTA and ATOL bonded financial r tect n n ut more at camc.com/ wwconfidence

* Covers holiday cancellations in line t a ce s a

NEW ZEALAND DISCOVERY

This incredible 36-day tour takes in the m st s ectacu ar as ects f t e an f t e n te c u er ence ca tour leaders will guide you every step of the way as you traverse both the South an rt s an s n t s tr f a fet me a n e re t e e arat n c t of Christchurch and picked up your comfortable Maui motorhome, you will head south-west across the Canterbury Plains towards Lake Pukaki in Mount Cook National Park, a region of breathtaking m unta n scener an ac a a es

When you are back on the east coast, be sure to stop at Koekohe Beach to see t e m ster us era u ers t s t en on to Dunedin – where you can embark on a cruise to the Otago Peninsula, home t en u ns sea ns an m re

fter s t n n ercar

affectionately known as the City of Water and Light – you head inland for Te Anau, the gateway to the Fiordland National Park, where you might like to visit the famed glow worm caves, illuminated by un re s f t n um nescent ar ae

On the 11th day you will enjoy a full a s e curs n t f r un an embark on a cruise against a backdrop of

m unta ns aterfa s an f rests t s then on to Queenstown (which boasts e tra r nar e s f a e a at u before heading for Westland Tai Poutini at na ar ere a e c ter t ur er t e an ran sef ac ers s rec mmen e

By day 17 you will have reached the Kaiteriteri region, where you can take part n a a a e curs n t t e c it is said that the giant globe-like rock was split in two by warring gods – or enjoy a dolphin-spotting cruise along the coast f e asman at na ar

STRAIT AHEAD

Afterwards, you can marvel at more scenery as you sail across the Cook Strait t e n t n n e ea an s rt s an e n t e ca ta e sure t s t the Te Papa museum to learn about the c untr s st r an r er ta e e t u s a er n t e east c ast n t e fam us a e s a ne re n take a trip to a vineyard or see the huge annet c n at a e na ers t rua s ur ne t est nat n ere u can s t t e am a ne an a n e ser at a a u r

*MEMBERS SAVE £100

Exclusive offer for Club members – save £100 per booking on Worldwide holidays. Available on a wide range of caravan and motorhome tours or you can create a bespoke holiday. Please visit camc.com/ wwoffers for more information and full terms and conditions.

view the boiling mud pools and silica terraces f t e e u a erma eser e

As your magical trip nears its conclusion you journey on to the ma n f cent r man e en nsu a Here you could dig your very own bath on the sands at Hot Water Beach or head for the huge stone arch of Cathedral e en er n t e scus ast you arrive at Orewa with its 3km beach, an t en t s n t usse n t e eaut fu a f s an s t e erfect s t f r t ree a s f re a at n

Finally, you have the opportunity t e re t e c t f uc an ere a farewell dinner offers the perfect rtun t t rem n sce t ne fr en s

To read first-hand experiences about this fantastic tour please turn to page 71.

£100

Duration/type: 36 days/escorted motorhome tour

Departs: 5 Nov an e 25 Feb 2024

Price: from £7,549pp (for 5 Nov 2023 departure based on two people travelling together; price includes a member sc unt f single supplement applies for solo tra e ers

Price includes: outfit hire for 29 days, return flights, transfers, hotel stays in Christchurch and Auckland including breakfasts, 28 n ts re e campsites, Milford Sound Nature Cruise, dinner at the ne estaurant n Queenstown, tra t na n feast n t rua welcome and farewell dinners, e er ence u es

Milford Sound

MEMORIES

Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu

ULTIMATE NEW ZEALAND

If you are looking to truly immerse yourself in the New Zealand experience, ur a t mate esc rte motorhome tour is for you. Guides will accompany you every step of the way as you traverse both the North and South islands.

After meeting your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner and exploring magical Auckland, you head for the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula. We recommend a visit to Hot Water Beach or Cathedral Cove and its huge natural rock arch.

You will then journey on to the geothermal region of Rotorua where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Mãori evening banquet with dancing.

As you head southwards towards a e au u enc unter t e fame Huka Falls where the Waikato River is forced through a gorge just 15m wide.

Following a gourmet food and ne t ur f t e a e s a re n n a t s n t e n t n u c u perhaps take in historic Greytown on the way. Once you have explored New Zealand’s capital (we recommend For more

the Te Papa national museum or a trip up Mount Victoria), you will board the Interislander ferry for the spectacular journey to the South Island.

Skirting the coast from Picton, you could punctuate your journey with a whale-watching cruise or a trip to Gore Bay to see the fascinating cliff formations. On arrival in Christchurch, a trip on the TranzAlpine Train through t e a e ns r n scener f rt ur s Pass is your reward.

Further feasts for the eyes are guaranteed as you head westwards across the Canterbury Plains towards Mount Cook. Here you will have the opportunity to experience extraordinary sunrises and sunsets over the snowy peaks, and explore the glacial lakes and hike the trails of Hooker Valley.

NATURAL SPECTACLES

Heading southwards via Dunedin and the spectacular Otago Peninsula, you will eventually reach Curio Bay (you may have the chance to spot seals, sea lions, dolphins and several species of penguin along the way). More natural spectacles are on offer at the Te Anau glow worm

caves on the edge of the glorious Fiordland National Park. A cruise across Doubtful Sound is included on the 28th day of your trip, while a further treat is a trip on the Queenstown Skyline Gondola, alongside dinner at the Stratosfare restaurant overlooking Lake Wakatipu.

ns e f rests an r st ne a es are followed by an icy wonderland as you drive up the west coast and arrive at the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers, where we definitely recommend a helicopter tour to appreciate the scale of these natural phenomena.

The scenery changes again as you approach Nelson, from which you could venture to Kaiteriteri – a wonderful location for kayaking in Tasman Bay.

Soon you will board the ferry across the Cook Strait once again. More delights ensue as you spend your final two weeks exploring the west coast of the North Island and journey back to Auckland. Here, a farewell dinner will give you the chance to say goodbye to newfound friends and reminisce about the adventure of a lifetime.

You can read about Worldwide experiences with the Club in our brochure. Visit camc. com/brochures to view online or order your free copy

Duration/type: 56 day escorted motorhome tour Departs: 3 Feb 2024

Price: from £12,949pp (for 3 Feb 2024 departure based on two people travelling t et er r ce includes a member discount of £100*. A single supplement applies for solo travellers)

Price includes: outfit hire for 49 days, return flights, transfers, hotel stays in Auckland, 48 nights pre-booked campsites, ferry crossings across the Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton, Te Po Indigenous Evening t n uffet Dinner, Hawkes Bay Gourmet Food and Wine Tour, Arthur’s Pass TranzAlpine with lunch, Doubtful Sound Cruise with lunch, Queenstown Skyline Gondola with dinner, Hole in the Rock Cruise, experienced guides

Mount Cook

Look out for special offers on campsites in our brochure – visit camc.com/brochures to view online or order your free copy

DON T FORGET

If you book an overseas site, Eurotunnel or ferry crossing through the Club you’ll get the lowest price –guaranteed! To find out more see camc. com/lowestprice

Plus you can save up to 10% on ferry and Eurotunnel crossings

– see camc.com/ overseas. And if you combine your crossing with a campsite stay you benefit from package travel protection – see camc.com/ overseaspackages

Red Pennant European breakdown and travel insurance will give you peace of mind on your touring holiday. See camc. com/redpennant

Visit camc.com/ overseas to book your site today.

EVERYONE’S A WINNER

Overseas campsite partners recognised at Club awards

e nners f t e u s erseas am s te Partners Awards 2022 were announced during the NEC show in February. The awards, held by the Caravan and Motorhome Club and Alan Rogers, recognise European partner campsites’ special commitment to our members.

The shortlists were compiled by our experienced campsite teams and experts in the camping and caravanning industry, taking into account feedback from members over the past year, longer-term popularity and comments from our campsite assessors.

We have a very close relationship with each of our 300+ overseas campsite partners, and we are particularly grateful for their support and flexibility during the Covid pandemic. These awards celebrate their efforts in welcoming our members, their friendliness, progress, innovation and more.

Here we present a few highlights from the 2022 awards (including three new awards). Full details of each of the 11 awards categories will be included in the May issue, or you can visit camc.com/overseascampsiteawards

OVERALL WINNERS

These sites are recognised for their outstanding quality, fantastic facilities and consistently great service.

Winner for Alan Rogers Travel Service: La Clusure, Belgium (Club ref: H09)

Having previously been runner-up in the ‘Progress’ and ‘Welcome’ categories, this

attractive site in the Ardennes is the first-ever Belgian winner of an overall category. It has undergone a period of substantial investment and improvement, particularly around the new family-friendly pool area. The capable, friendly staff go out of their way to ensure a warm welcome.

Winner for Caravan and Motorhome Club: Alannia Costa Blanca, Spain (Club ref: W05)

Located on the sunny Costa Blanca, this five-star resort offers amazing facilities and services, including a hair salon, tropical pools and slides as well as quality and regional cuisine. The campsite is perfect for summer holidays or long winter stays and offers a consistently excellent service to the public.

OTHER WINNERS

Exceptional Services & Facilities (new award)

Le Domaine de Massereau, France (Club ref: C33)

Set amidst a family-run olive grove and vineyard in the sun-soaked region of Occitanie, Le Domaine de Massereau offers the perfect blend of tradition and sophistication. Among its exceptional facilities it boasts a newly added aquatic playground, a restaurant offering panoramic bay windows and views of the waterpark, and a terrace under a pergola. The site team’s dedication to outstanding service is truly exceptional.

Most Attractive Campsite (new award)

Kiko Park, Spain (Club ref: E20)

Kiko Park in Valencia has a stunning location beside a white sandy beach, with palm trees, flowers and hedges further adding to its appeal. Boasting outstanding facilities, it offers the perfect environment for a relaxing holiday. Guests can sunbathe with a cocktail at the beach bar or taste superb Mediterranean cuisine at the site restaurant.

Most Accessible (new award) Les Saules, France

(Club ref: L01)

Situated in the heart of the Loire Valley, the owners Laurent and Isabelle are passionate both about the environment and offering the possibility for everyone to enjoy a holiday at their delightful campsite. The campsite swimming pool includes a special lift for access and the adapted facilities for reduced mobility are excellent.

Find out more at: camc.com/confidence

Alannia Costa Blanca, Spain (Club ref: W05)

Kiko Park, Spain (Club ref: E20)

La Clusure, Belgium (Club ref: H09)

Le Domaine de Massereau, France (Club ref: C33)

Les Saules, France (Club ref: L01)

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Mature trees will shed branches but continue to serve a wide range of wildlife

Park life

Parkland is an important habitat for ancient trees that support a vast array of wildlife. David Chapman explains

Parkland is a habitat that features mature trees, scattered in an open, often grazed, countryside consisting of grass or heathland plants. The creation of this type of landscape has largely been a result of human intervention, so it brings with it an interesting history and natural history.

The term ‘parkland’ is often used interchangeably with ‘wood pasture’, but the two habitats are slightly different. In parkland the arrangement of the trees tends to be planned and the scenery more tamed, whereas wood pastures have a wilder appearance.

The establishment of wood pastures dates back to the time when humans roamed the countryside and would take shelter in woodlands, grazing their animals in clearings. Although we lost a lot of mature trees to felling after the Norman Conquest, the best remaining wood pastures and forests became the property of the Crown and were used as hunting grounds; great examples include the New Forest and London’s Royal Parks.

Over time even these hunting grounds diminished in

size. Some were walled and redesignated as deer parks; these spaces were managed by humans and lost their wild ‘wood pasture’ feel for something more manicured. Deer parks were a symbol of wealth and stature in the 18th century, which led to an increase in parkland. Many wealthy families had their estates designed by the likes of Capability Brown and Humphry Repton, both of whom embraced the idea of growing trees in a landscape that could be browsed by deer. This is essentially when parkland as a habitat was first created.

MIGHTY OAKS

The most obvious feature of parkland and wood pasture is wonderful, old trees. It’s tempting to think that woodland is the best place to look for the oldest specimens, but generally trees live longer in parkland and wood pasture. Woodland trees have to compete for light and nutrients in their denser environments; they will characteristically grow tall and thin and are more susceptible to collapse. In parkland or wood pasture, trees have a lower spreading shape and greater access to light and nutrients, so they will generally be stronger and live longer.

From top: red deer in parkland habitat; tawny owls nest in holes found only in mature trees; the noctule bat lives and hunts in parkland

Wood pasture in the New Forest and (inset) a green woodpecker

Trees in parkland are also more likely to receive special attention because they are more individually significant to the landscape. The management of these trees also helps extend their lives. Many parkland trees have historically been pollarded, which stimulates fresh and vigorous growth, and can give the tree many more years of life.

As a result, this type of habitat is the best place to look for ancient trees and veteran trees (those which are not necessarily old but showing signs of decay). Many of our parklands and wood pastures contain specimens that are more than 500 years old. Though most of these are likely to be oak, there are also some impressive sweet chestnut, beech and, across the border, Scots pines.

These mature trees provide vital support for other species. They produce a bounty of seeds and nuts which are taken by birds, such as jays and even hawfinches, as well as a range of mammals including badgers and wood mice. As the trees mature, they begin to decay, which provides an opportunity for fungi to grow – one of the most common species found on oak is the beefsteak, and on beech we regularly see the artist’s bracket. The decay of branches that have fallen to the ground is accelerated by the burrowing of beetle grubs. Stag beetles and lesser stag beetles, ground

Top: a mix of mature trees and open grazing land is typical of parkland or wood pasture

Above: this beard lichen grows on trees where there is a clean atmosphere

Below left: hawfinches depend on mature trees

beetles, bark beetles and click beetles all live in this type of habitat, their larvae being eaten by woodpeckers and parasitised by ichneumon wasps. In fact there are 2,000 species of insect in Britain dependent on the decay of wood.

The amount of wildlife supported by a tree increases as it gets older. Its nooks and crannies are home to several species of bat and even more birds. Spotted flycatchers love the juxtaposition of the old trees where they nest, and open spaces, into which they fly to catch insects.

All three woodpeckers are found in parkland, where they nest in tree holes, but it is the green woodpecker that is most closely tied to this habitat because it comes to the ground among short grass to feed on ants.

Other birds that nest in tree holes include tawny owls, little owls, jackdaws, nuthatches and, most commonly around London, ring-necked parakeets. With sunlight, space and fresh air, a number of lichens – many of them unusual – grow on old trees. At one parkland location near me, in Cornwall, more than 130 different species of lichen have been recorded.

CROWD CONTROL

Parkland and wood pasture habitats face a range of threats. Diseases such as ash dieback and sudden oak death might be the most obvious but there are other potential problems.

Some wood pastures can become overgrown with scrub. If left unmanaged or under-grazed, the gaps between mature trees can become populated with other trees and, though this is a natural process, the really old trees lose light and struggle to survive. Elsewhere, in some parklands there aren’t enough middle-aged trees coming through to replace the really old ones when they eventually collapse.

I suppose this emphasises the historic nature of our parkland and wood pastures. These habitats take hundreds of years to develop. Fortunately, our understanding of habitat management is evolving, and many of our best parklands and wood pastures are now managed with greater sensitivity.

MYSTERY PHOTO

Each month I will show you a photo of something from the natural world. It might be a close-up or a subject that is difficult to identify. All you have to do is figure out what it is! No clues or prizes – it’s just for fun. (I will tell you the identity of this creature (right) next month, but if you can’t wait, download the Digital Magazine.)

February 2023 issue answer: the sundew, an insectivorous plant.

“

The amount of wildlife supported by a tree increases as it gets older ”

INFO

For details of walks in the area see greatfen.org.uk

Stay: Ferry Meadows Club Campsite

Main image: Silver birch trees shrouded in mist at Holme Fen

Right from top: prime walking country; feathery reeds; posts record the ground level over the years

RETURNING HOLME

Jonathan Manning ventures below sea level on the Great Fen and reports on plans to restore it

Contour lines rule like kings in walking guidebooks, indicating uphill walks that will be rewarded with far-reaching views. We’re informed of peaks with 15-county panoramas and mountain summits offering spellbinding vistas. But what about, at the other end of the spectrum, the flatlands that boast no hint of a rise all the way to the horizon? In this vertically challenged kingdom, the ‘Holme Posts’ on Holme Fen, south of Peterborough, stand at 2.75m below sea level – the bottom-most point in the United Kingdom without going underground or requiring a snorkel.

The first iron post dates from 1851 – it replaced a timber pile that was driven deep into the peat just before the nearby Whittlesey Mere was drained in 1848 – and the second was added in 1957, about six metres to the north-east.

The top of the first post was initially level with the ground, but as pumps drained the land, like squeezing water from a sponge, the ground level fell. Within 25 years the ground had dropped about two metres, and it took only another five years to sink by a further metre. Today, the tops of the posts stand about four metres above the earth, with date markers indicating the ground’s height in 1870, 1875 and 1880.

Victorian sketches show flotillas of sailing boats on Whittlesey Mere, and crowds of skaters on its frozen surface in winter. This was once the largest lake in southern England, at more than three miles wide and six miles long, but the richness of the peat soil, the so-called

‘black gold’, meant the Mere was far more valuable as farmland than as a centre of reed harvesting, recreation, wildfowling and fishing.

Today, Holme Fen is the northern outpost of the ambitious Great Fen project – a partnership between the Environment Agency, Huntingdonshire District Council, Middle Level Commissioners, Natural England and The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire – which aims to restore 14 square miles of land between here and Woodwalton Fen to wild fen over a period of 50 to 100 years.

The restoration will recreate wetland habitats and attract endangered fen wildlife, such as bitterns and otters, back to the area. Common cranes have already returned, and last year a pair of marsh harriers bred on the restoration land for the first time. Holme Fen is a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, its damp conditions boasting 500 different types of fungi, as well as an impressive array of dragonflies, butterflies and amphibians.

HITTING THE TRAIL

There’s no ear-popping descent as I head below sea level to start my walk, but my recent drive has already showcased the epic sky above this pancake-flat landscape. The vast arable fields of the region, sliced into geometric patterns by ditches, dykes and drainage channels, have seen the area overlooked as a walking destination – an apparently featureless waterland with an underlying bronchial cough. But the epic sense of space and dramatic weather systems

that scurry over these productive soils have a certain otherworldliness. As the actor and president of the Great Fen project, Stephen Fry, said, “The fens stand as one of the most misunderstood, neglected and extraordinary features of the British landscape. Not to mention beautiful.”

On a bright January day, Holme Fen is doing its best to impress below an endless blue sky. The paths that criss-cross the nature reserve seem well drained, although scores of wooden boardwalks provide tell-tale evidence that the going could get messy. Both gauge posts have been left high and dry by the sinking fen; in fact, the foundations of the original are now so exposed that guy-rope hawsers hold the post upright.

A waymark points me along a path by an arrow-straight dyke, feathery reeds dancing in the breeze. The occasional molehill of jet-black soil exposes the agricultural treasures beneath my feet, although Holme Fen is largely woodland rather than arable. Despite the drainage efforts, Holme Fen remained too wet and boggy to farm, and trees were allowed to colonise the land. There are occasional oaks, yews and cedars, but silver birches dominate the forest, the dark shadows between their mast-like, white trunks creating a barcode effect.

A second waymark signals a turn away from the dyke and into the woodland, where copper-coloured bracken lies either side of the path. Navigation is surprisingly easy, paths seemingly plotted like the grid system in an American city. Occasional heathland

clearings carry echoes of the New Forest, but it’s much easier here to find your way. Tucked into the undergrowth, I spy a large metal cauldron, a former charcoal bin that dates from the Second World War. Contemporary accounts recall how the felling of trees to make charcoal created clearings that soon filled with nightingale song in the spring. A few yards further on, a knee-height barrier sits across a shallow channel, designed to trap and disperse water across the woodland floor. Safeguarding the peat helps store the carbon trapped in these wetlands, which the Great Fen project claims will save an estimated 325,000 tonnes of CO2 from being released each year – equivalent to the annual emissions of tens of thousands of households. Completing the trail, I discover Burnham’s Mere, a large lake that formed when water filled the pits where peat had been dug. Swans and moorhens preen and squabble in a waterscape that feels much more like I imagine the original Whittlesey Mere to have looked. There will be more of these pools and ponds as the Great Fen develops, and wherever there’s abundant water there’s abundant life – wildflowers, fungi, birds and butterflies. A nature safari with far-reaching views and no gravity to defy – who needs to climb to the top of a hill for an amazing walk?

Old peat pits filled with water o for r ha s Mere

THE LOWDOWN

Three more low-lying walking routes to consider...

SPURN POINT, EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE

Walk along a narrow peninsula that separates the North Sea from the Humber Estuary, with a feeling that the waves could cover this nature reserve at any time. Make sure you check the tide times before you set off.

Info: ywt.org.uk

Stay: Bridlington Club Campsite

BARTON BOARD WALK, NORFOLK

The board walk will keep your feet dry on this 1½-mile trail that takes in swampy woodland, before opening onto an epic panorama across Barton Broad, the second largest broad.

Info: visitthebroads.co.uk

Stay: Norfolk Broads Club Campsite

SHAPWICK HEATH, SOMERSET

This nature reserve in the Avalon Marshes has a good network of tracks to help you explore the ancient landscape of the Somerset Levels.

Info: avalonmarshes.org

Stay: Cheddar Club Campsite

“ Holme Fen is a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest ”

“The AirRAM and Multi are perfect partners. Together, they form a lightweight combination, built to tackle the whole home, car, and beyond… “

Gtech always performs – The System

Enhanced power brush head

The powered rotating brush bar is great for picking up pet hair from carpets and hard floors, effortlessly cleaning between tiles and floorboards. The unique AirLOC technology means the AirRAM will deeply clean your carpets and, with its remarkable suction power, leave beautiful, freshly groomed stripes as you go. The Gtech AirRam easily removes large debris from the surface as you push forwards, and locks on the backstroke to suck up embedded dust.

Cordless convenience

The AirRam has an ultra low profile handle design, allowing you to reach under tables, chairs and other furniture. The Multi’s powered brush head is ideal for awkward spaces like the stairs, car interior and sofa cushions. It also includes an extension tube that can be used to reach up high or down low with a choice of different nozzles. Both vacuums feature LED headlights to illuminate your cleaning area, meaning there’s no place for dirt or dust to hide.

Lightweight

Thanks to its streamlined design, which does away with so many bulky parts, the AirRam weighs just 3.2kg. The handheld Multi weighs just 1.5kg**, offering a lightweight cleaning option. And with a combined runtime of up to 60 minutes* you can clean your home from floor to ceiling.

Nick Grey Inventor, owner of Gtech

THE OLD AND THE NEW

Sammy Faircloth compares her modern caravan with a classic from the early 1990s

Iremember my parents’ Lynton caravan. Fairly basic by today’s standards, it didn’t have a toilet, the water was supplied via a foot pump and the windows were made of glass.

In 2019, I bought my year-old Swift Conqueror 565 from Salop Leisure. I got talking to senior sales representative George, who enthused about his 1993 Carlight Commander 152, dubbed ’Katie’. I thought it would be fun to compare our two tourers to see how design, fashion and technology has changed over the past three decades or so.

HISTORY

For a bit of context, Carlight caravans were manufactured in Sleaford, Lincolnshire, between 1932 and 2002. Renowned for their quality, they had a reputation for being ‘luxury tourers’. The Carlight Commander 152 was the last model produced. The first Swift caravan –‘The Ten’ – was built in 1964 in Hull. The company is now based in Cottingham, East Yorkshire and today it has several lines, including the compact Basecamp and high-end, 8ft-wide Elegance Grande.

FEATURES

Shape: The most obvious difference between our two models is the shape. Carlight was certainly a trailblazer in terms of design – the ‘lantern-topped’ roof represented a unique take on style. Meanwhile, Swift introduced a slick integrated sunroof in 2011 and by 2014 it was available on all models.

Build: Caravan construction methods have changed over the years. This 1993 Carlight featured modern materials and build systems at the time of its construction. The floor was still traditionally built with timber joists

Melamine plates and plastic cups are popular nowadays Tea for two: Carlight china!

Rear boot in the Carlight

Ma a e a r h a s f Co eror a he Car h Co a er

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• Fits all vehicles including Range / Land Rovers and BMW X series models

NEW

TWIN AXLE STACKA LEVEL SET

Extremely robust interlocking levelling blocks, can be built up to the height required. Highly versatile and costefective levelling for twin-axle caravans.

MIRROR PROTECTORS

Protect mirrors against accidental damage. Can be used to cover existing damage. Easy to ft. Available in Black or White. Mercedes Sprinter version now available.

MGI DOUBLE/SINGLE PLASTIC STEPS

Available in 2 sizes. This MGI Giant Double Step and the Regular Double. Non-tip durable design with non-skid treads.

BC LOCK

Encases the pedals & renders the vehicle inoperative. The only pedal locking device available that is Sold Secure Gold & Police Recommended. Available for most motorhomes.

COMMERCIAL HIGH-SECURITY STEERING WHEEL LOCK

Simple to ft, & compatible with all motorhome steering wheels. Provides a strong visual theft deterrent, & delivers exceptional attack resistance.

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Stacka 9 set illustrated

running the length of the caravan and 12mm plywood above; it was insulated with 50mm thick Styrofoam. Above is a one piece moulded roof that overlaps the sides, which are clad with thick aluminium panelling. In 2012, Swift introduced its new ‘SMART’ timberless construction system which featured GRP body panels and strong water-ingress prevention qualities. The floor of my Conqueror is of a ‘sandwich’ construction with GRP outer skin and ply on the upper level.

Lockers: Some older caravans displayed unusual features not seen on modern models. Just like the Swift Conqueror, the Carlight has a front locker that houses the gas cylinders, but with the added touch of a slide-out tray. Also, take a look at the rear boot compartment, large enough to house the electrical hook-up cable, waste/fresh water container and other items.

Steps: In the 1950s Carlight introduced built-in steps. Although integrated steps are commonplace in motorhomes and

campervans, few caravans boast this feature nowadays. Today’s caravanners usually purchase their own sets of steps, of which there are many variations on the market.

Flooring: Carlight laid easy-to-clean vinyl flooring in the kitchen and washroom, and fitted carpets in the living area for comfort. Modern caravans like the Swift Conqueror often feature a fully vinyl-covered floor for practicality, but with loose fitting carpets that can be placed on top for that more homely feel. The choice is yours!

Kitchen: Today’s caravans contain exceptional kitchen appliances, such as full-size refrigerators incorporating removable freezer compartments, gas hobs with hotplates, ovens with separate grills, extractor fans (on high-end models) and microwave ovens. Things were more straightforward pre-2000, although Carlight offered an oven cover that doubled up as a tray!

Crockery: Carlight paid keen attention to detail, offering little extras you rarely see today. This opulent caravan incorporated

a cocktail cabinet lined with mirror glass, housing branded wine glasses and tumblers. A baize-lined cutlery drawer and china tea sets complete the look. Melamine plates and plastic cups are often the preferred option in modern caravans as they are more hard wearing than glass/china.

Lights: By the early 1970s gas lamps were being phased out, with fluorescent lights taking their place. However, Carlight had started introducing electric lights as early as the 1950s, complemented by fancy lamp shades. By the 1990s halogen lights started to appear in caravans, but they tended to get hot and drew a lot of current. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have been around for a while now, and all modern caravans have LED spotlights, uplights and backlights. In fact, my Swift Conqueror is awash with LEDs! Upholstery & beds: Carlight very much wanted a caravan to feel like a home from home, and George’s has been re-upholstered in a fabric to suit its era. My Swift features hardwearing and durable foams, neutral tones and scatter cushions for a bit of extra comfort. Modern-day upholstery tends to be stain resistant – great if you have pets or accidentprone children! The popularity of fixed beds has seen the introduction of sprung mattresses, which aid a good night’s sleep.

FINAL THOUGHTS …

I have only touched upon some of the differences between these two caravans, but it is fascinating to see how trends change. George’s story made me smile when he told me that he was the second owner of his 30-year-old caravan.

Do you own a vintage caravan – or have you restored one to its former glory? We’d love to hear from you via magazine@camc.com.

The Swift Conqueror features a sophisticated kitchen

The Carlight kitchen is more basic –but the oven cover is innovative!

My Swift Conqueror has a plethora of energy-efficient LED light options

Carlight cocktail cabinet

The popularity of fixed beds has seen the introduction of sprung mattresses

Flowery patterns were trendy in the 90s

Chic lampshade in the Carlight

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Jenny Place, Judy Tromans, Noel Pritchard, Pat Pritchard, Carol Cowling and Richard Cowling; Les and Sheila

‘We had an awesome time’

When their dream Club tour in New Zealand was cut short, four couples vowed to go back…

Back in June 2020, we printed a letter from Carol Cowling, who, with husband, Richard, had been travelling on the Club’s New Zealand Discovery Tour when the first wave of the Covid pandemic took hold. She wrote, “However, we quickly realised that [tour hosts] Jenny and David and the amazing team at the Club were already planning solutions to return us all to the UK as soon as possible… Accommodation was found at the wonderful Chateau on the Park hotel… Miraculously, after two weeks of intense work [by Club staff Georgia, Chris and Martin], we were given the news that flights had been found and soon we were on our way home.”

Pleased with the Club’s service, she added, “Many of us will book again with the Club’s Worldwide holidays to return to New Zealand to continue the dream.”

Well, we’re pleased to report that Carol, Richard, and three other couples who were stranded with them during the pandemic (Noel and Pat Pritchard, Mike and Judy Tromans and Sheila and Les Magee) have just

returned from a re-booked New Zealand Discovery tour – and it more than lived up to expectations.

“We had an awesome time,” says Carol, who hails from Canterbury in Kent. “Because we had been looked after by the Caravan and Motorhome Club so beautifully in 2020, we all felt that there was no other option but to go back with you. We knew that we would get that treatment again.”

The 36-day escorted motorhome tour turned out to be one to remember for all the right reasons. Carol says that the opportunity to revisit sites from the initial trip (they had managed about 10 days before the abrupt end to their holiday) was hugely rewarding, while group activities, such as a buffet meal in Queenstown, were obvious highlights. “The Mãori [feast] experience at Rotorua on the North Island was just mindblowing,” she says.

“One of the highlights was going back to the hotel where we were during lockdown because the staff there looked after us beautifully too.

Ten of us – the four couples and David

and Jenny – went and had lunch there. And the Club very kindly gave us a contribution towards the [reunion] meal! That was very special.”

Carol and Richard, who have been members of the Club since 2017, are already looking forward to their next adventure, with a Club-organised tour of Canada and an independent tour of Ireland high on the wishlist. They also plan to stay in touch with their fellow travellers. “We’re already talking about meeting up possibly in Spain or Portugal!” she says.

SPECIAL OCCASION

Another of the couples stranded in 2020 were Les and Sheila Magee from Lamonby in Cumbria.

Les explained how those on the Club’s tour formed the ‘Escape Committee’, which discussed ongoing arrangements. “The committee was kept informed on a regular basis via Club staff in the UK. We had a conference call lasting around 10 minutes at around 9 or 10 in the morning. That was reassuring… On about the third meeting, Martin

[Martin Murray at Club head office] said, ‘By lunchtime today you should have something in the region of £4,000 [per couple] returned to your account.’ We hadn’t asked for any reimbursement at that stage, but we had been concerned about how we would fund one, two, three or four weeks or longer in a hotel,” he says.

The Magees were also keen to point out how helpful tour hosts Jenny and David had been throughout their New Zealand experience. “Their detailed knowledge, attention to detail and kindness cannot be over-emphasised,” says Sheila. Asked to pick out her highlights, she says, “The tour is too big an adventure to sum up easily… Every day was a ‘wow’ day but one memory that stands out was the sight of hundreds of tiny blue penguins coming ashore at our feet at dusk on the Otago Peninsula.”

To find out more about the New Zealand Discovery escorted motorhome tour, turn to our travel feature on page 54 or visit camc.com/worldwide.

Clockwise from top left: Bluff Point; Tonga Quarry beach, Abel Tasman National Park; Richard and Carol Cowling at the Tasman Glacier; view fro e Ma a ea e ar o s Aquarium, Auckland; reunited, left to right: Les Magee, David Reyland, Mike Tromans, Sheila Magee,

Magee on the Franz Josef Glacier

And so to bed...

Jane McGowan puts the spotlight on some night-time essentials

Mountain Warehouse Double Fleece Melange Blanket

Available in three colours – burgundy, navy and grey – the Melange Blanket is sure to keep you snug during the cooler spring evenings. Made from a super-soft polyester, the blanket also features a Sherpa fleece layer for extra warmth and comfort. It is lightweight, making it ideal for storing in the caravan or motorhome.

RRP: £29.99 (Club members can save 15%; see camc.com/ mountainwarehouse for details, terms and conditions)

Contact: mountainwarehouse.com

Outwell Auriga Deluxe LED Touch Lamp Cream White

Your caravan or motorhome will bask in a warm glow on even the dreariest of evenings with this multi-setting lamp from Outwell. The touchcontrol light offers three levels of brightness, which also makes it a good choice as a child’s nightlight while away from home. The lamp can be hung, hand-held (should you need illumination en route to the facilities block) or placed on a surface. It will run for 25 hours, requiring 3xAA batteries (not included).

RRP: £15.99 (Club Shop price £9.33; Club members pay £8.40; see shop.camc.com for details, terms and conditions)

Size: H20cm x D10cm

Contact: outwell.com

Charley Chau Dog Snuggle Bed in Velour

The Snuggle Bed is a super soft ‘pocket’ that will ensure your four-legged friend always has a good night’s sleep. The fabric is long-lasting and it’s machine washable, too. The bed comes in a range of sizes and shades, and can be supplied with a removable waterproof liner to mitigate against muddy paws and any accidents!

RRP: £95-£227 (depending on size and whether liner is required)

Size: small, medium, large

Contact: charleychau.com

Cyberjammies Jamie Boys Jersey T-shirt and Check Pyjama Set

Stylish, simple and super-comfortable, these pyjamas are ideal for spring and early summer. The long-sleeved top is made from a soft jersey that is constructed of 50% cotton and 50% modal. The trousers are fully elasticated at the waist and feature an adjustable front drawstring. Made from 100% cotton, they have a loose, comfy fit. Also available in men’s sizes.

RRP : £25

Size: ages 2-13

Contact: cyberjammies.co.uk

Selk’bag

Ideal for chilly visits to the shower block, these ‘wearable’ sleeping bags offer plenty of warmth as well as the comfort and freedom of a onesie. The Selk’bag

‘Original Recycled’ and ‘Lite Recycled’ (pictured right) versions are both made from planet-friendly recycled materials and feature elasticated hand openings, large kangaroostyle pockets and removable booties with reinforced outsoles. Selk’bags come in a variety of sizes and there is also a children’s range.

RRP: Original Recycled, £139.99; Lite Recycled, £99.99

Contact: selkbag.co.uk

Upping the ante

James Batchelor tests Mazda s more premium SUV, which features the company s first plug-in hybrid system

For the past decade, the only choice for caravanners looking for an SUV wearing the Mazda badge with decent space and towing abilities has been the CX-5. That has now changed.

The new CX-60 is an important car for Mazda. It’s now the largest SUV the Japanese brand offers in the UK (although an even larger CX-80 is on the way), it’s the company’s first attempt to offer a more premium car, and it comes with Mazda’s first ever plug-in hybrid system.

With Mazda’s strong heritage of winning towcars, I was keen to get behind the wheel.

COMFORT

Sitting above the CX-5 in Mazda’s range, the CX-60 has a suitably larger body with a more imposing front-end, a long bonnet and a stubby rear-end. The CX-60 looks simple and elegant and the same goes for the interior.

Top-spec cars feature hand-stitched fabrics covering the dashboard, and real wood and metal inlays in the centre console and door trims. The rest of the range is almost as luxurious, with even entry-level versions getting black leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, a colour head-up display and an electric tailgate. This mid-spec Homura adds a Bose sound system, heated rear seats and Mazda’s Driver Personalisation System to the standard kit, the latter using facial recognition to adjust the seating and steering wheel positions for different drivers.

Mazda has foregone the trend for enormous touchscreens and instead fitted a nicely sized 12.3in screen mounted away from the driver. It’s controlled by a rotary dial on the centre console. However, the standard-fit Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity is designed for touchscreens, and not rotary wheels. It means that flicking between Google Maps and Spotify,

To see car test videos download the Digital Magazine from the App Store or Google Play. Remember to search for CAMC Magazine’.

for example, is unnecessarily difficult, but it’s not a deal-breaker – especially when you bear in mind the level of equipment that’s thrown in relative to the price.

The CX-60 is a large car, but it’s strictly a five-seater. Upfront space is plentiful but taller passengers might bemoan a slight lack of headroom. The back seats are extremely comfortable, though, with decent knee room, and my test car featured heated seats, USB-C charging ports and even a three-pin socket. Boot room stands at 570 litres, expanding to 1,726 with the seats down. There are little storage pockets, a 12V socket, and the towbar (priced at just over £1,100) is semi-electrically deployable with a button on the side of the boot area.

DRIVING

Not only does the CX-60 show off Mazda’s premium aspirations, but it also debuts the firm’s new plug-in hybrid powertrain.

At the time of this review going to print, Mazda was readying the launch of a brand new 3.3-litre straight-six diesel engine for the CX-60 and setting out plans to introduce a 3.0-litre straight-six petrol. Here we’re focusing on the hybrid. With 323bhp, the CX-60 PHEV (plug-in hybrid) becomes at a stroke Mazda’s most powerful production car ever. It pairs a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a 134bhp electric motor sitting on the back axle to give four-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. That motor, meanwhile, is powered by a 17.4kWh battery. Acceleration is suitably brisk, with 0-62mph taking under six seconds, while there’s the potential for up to 39 miles of pure electric driving when the battery is fully charged (which takes two hours and 20 minutes from an 11kW charger).

Leave the car in its default ‘normal’ mode, and it automatically flits between petrol and electric power. Rival PHEV SUVs transition between the two power sources seamlessly, but with the CX-60 there’s the

This page, clockwise from left: Mazda has opted for a simple and elegant look; black leather upholstery and heated front seats; comfortable back seats (also heated in this model); Mazda is adopting plug-in technology; 570l boot room with rear seats up; dashboard and heated steering wheel; towing mirror fitting was easy

Price as tested:

£52,301

Insurance

39A

Engine:

2,488cc, 4cyl, in-line, turbocharged petrol with electric motor

Power:

323bhp (241kW)

Torque:

500Nm (369Ib ft)

Transmission:

8-speed automatic

Spare Wheel:

Tyre inflation kit

Kerbweight:

1,995kg

Gross Vehicle Weight:

2,667kg

Gross Train Weight:

5,167kg

Noseweight Limit:

100kg

Towing Equipment:

Tow bar pack, retractable semielectric (£1,131)

Fuel/tank/test econ:

Petrol/11 gals (50 litres)/36mpg (solo)/26mpg towing

1,296kg

CO2 : 33g/km

Figures from manufacturer s terature

RATINGS

75% COMFORT TOWING

DRIVING 85% 60% 73%

OVERALL

occasional shunt. For the most part, though, electric driving is prioritised – that 39-mile figure is pretty accurate – and because Mazda has used an eightspeed gearbox with a multi-plate clutch instead of a hybrid’s conventional CVT (continuously variable transmission), the gear changes are swift.

For a car of this weight, the CX-60 gets down the road with surprising vigour. There’s not quite the same razor-sharp handling you find in the smaller CX-5, but the CX-60 is a very entertaining steer. It feels typically ‘Mazda’ in having an agile chassis, direct steering, and excellent body control.

Mid-spec Homura, as tested here, and range-topping Takumi models get the full gamut of driving modes, including ‘off-road’ and ‘towing’. Mazda says these models calibrate the intelligent all-wheel drive system (which can switch from rear- to all-wheel drive depending on road conditions automatically) for better traction and, in the case of the ‘towing’ mode, better stability.

Once hitched up and in ‘towing’ mode, the car prioritised petrol power over electric, which highlighted how coarse the four-cylinder engine is when pulling a heavy load; electric assistance was minimal during testing. Moreover, the car felt slightly sluggish from standing starts on flat surfaces, although Mazda says this is normal as power is restricted to improve stability. ‘EV’ mode gave better acceleration and refinement, but the only problem with this mode is that the car is in a rear-wheel drive configuration, which could be problematic on slippery surfaces. Having said that, I tested the car in freezing

conditions and on salted roads, and it felt incredibly stable even in ‘EV’ mode.

Aside from the engine feeling a bit strained, the CX-60’s fine qualities when driving solo really shone through when towing. Other observations were excellent 360-degree cameras, good wide-view rear-view camera, and mirrors that allow for easy attachment of towing mirrors.

VERDICT

Offering the fine driving characteristics, the company is known for, this is a promising first step in Mazda’s aspirations to become a maker of premium cars and to transition to electric motoring. A future test may confirm that the diesel will be the better choice for towing, but the CX-60 PHEV is a strong proposition in a growing selection of electrically assisted large SUVs.

Send

get a 10% discount on new or renewing car insurance through the Club. Visit camc.com/towcar and camc.com/insurance/carinsurance for more information and terms and conditions.

MAZDA CX-60

FROM JOHNSONS MAZDA – PULLING ITS WEIGHT

Joining the superb plug-in hybrid Mazda CX-60 is a powerful new diesel option with the leading e-SKYACTIV D diesel engine. O ering low emissions and excellent fuel e ciency along with high levels of torque and range, the diesel CX-60 boasts a class-leading 2,500kg trailer weight towing capacity and is ideal for those drivers who tow regularly over longer distances.

Order from Johnsons Mazda by the end of March and get a free three-year service plan and a free fitted towbar* with 7.4% APR Representative, as well as a guarantee that your new car arrives with a brand-new 23 plate! To take advantage of this o er, quote ‘CAMC’.

The o cial fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Mazda CX-60 PHEV range: Weighted combined 188.3 (1.5). Weighted combined CO2 emissions (g/km) 33.^

The o cial fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Mazda CX-60 Diesel range: Combined 53.3 (5.3) - 56.5 (5.0). CO2 emissions (g/km) 139 - 129.^

The Mazda CX-60 PHEV is a plug-in hybrid vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Equivalent all-electric range: 39.15 miles. ^Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real-life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. All figures quoted are derived from the latest WLTP test cycle.

*O er exclusive to readers of the Caravan and Motorhome Club magazine. Free three-year service plan is valid on all retail orders placed by 31st March 2023. Three years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. Retail sales only, subject to availability for vehicles ordered by 31.03.23 and registered by 30.06.2023 at participating dealers. T&Cs apply. At the end of the agreement, there are three options:

exchange the vehicle, (ii) Pay the Optional Final Payment to own the vehicle or (iii) Return the vehicle. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle.

may

required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR. Channel Islands and Isle of Man excluded. Not available in conjunction with any other o er unless specified. Term limits may apply. Johnsons Cars Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for consumer credit activity and our registration number is 688450. Permitted activities include acting as a credit broker, not a lender.

Johnsons Mazda Gloucester Shepherd Road, Cole Avenue Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL2 5EP

Johnsons Mazda Solihull Highlands Road, Solihull West Midlands B90 4NU

Johnsons Mazda Tamworth Lichfield Road, Tamworth Sta ordshire B79 7TP

Johnsons Mazda Swindon Forest Park Road, Mead Way Swindon, Wiltshire SN5 5PQ

Johnsons Mazda Oxford 234 Botley Road, Oxford OX2 0HP

BON VOYAGE!

A new, Ford Transit-based coachbuilt from Swift offers a winning blend of luxury and value, says Nick Harding

Swift’s new Voyager range – a coachbuilt line-up of four models – is built on the Ford Transit base vehicle. The 584 adopts a fixed single beds/large garage floorplan that is popular throughout Europe, includes the levels of equipment you would expect as standard, and is priced rather competitively, starting at £67,495. It’s a full four-berth, but the target audience will surely be couples who might consider taking the grandchildren away occasionally.

BUILD QUALITY

Both the outer panels of the coachbuilt bodywork and internal walls are made from GRP. Underfloor is the same, with Styrofoam insulation. The days of timber joints are long gone – there’s some ply for the flooring but the rest of the bodywork is wood-free. It comes with the reassurance of a 10-year warranty.

The cab is ‘Magnetic Grey’ and blends well with the white bodywork thanks to some premium

graphics and decals. The 16in alloy wheels are standard (the spare is steel).

At 600mm, the one-piece habitation door is slightly wider than those generally seen in rival motorhomes. It has a flush-fitting window and double locking points.

The garage doors are large, too. You should be able to get bikes in here, along with the usual touring paraphernalia – outdoor seating, tables, barbecue, etc. There are sockets – mains, 12V, USB – just inside the nearside garage door, alongside some handy hooks and lashing points; strip lights are discreetly positioned on each side.

Fresh and waste water tanks are underslung, but have heating to ward off frost (part of the standard Winter Pack, included in the basic price, which also includes en-route heating to the living quarters).

DRIVING

Ford’s 155bhp engine gives more than a handy turn of speed to the Voyager 584. Admittedly my example was only partly laden, but it was easy to get up to a decent speed and keep up with the traffic.

Premium graphics and decals make the Voyager stand out

I had the added relaxation of the automatic transmission option but other reviews have reported favourably on this base vehicle’s standard, six-speed manual. The automatic upgrade will set you back £1,795 and does shave a significant 53kg off your payload, bringing it down to 371kg, which could be worth bearing in mind if you are going to use it as a full four-berth.

What also impresses on the Ford front is the standard of the cab fittings. The plastics are good quality and the switchgear has a positive feel to it. Swift orders its Fords in upmarket ‘Trend’ trim, which means the 584 is exceptionally well equipped. Cab air conditioning is standard, along with a tyre pressure monitoring system, reversing camera, automatic windscreen wipers, stop-start technology and a Zenec Xzent infotainment system with 9in touchscreen (incorporating DAB radio, USB and Bluetooth connectivity).

Other factory-fitted options are restricted to pre-fittings for a microwave oven (your dealer will finish this) at £185, and a £315 Thule rack for two bikes. There are individual, forward-facing travel seats for two rear passengers complete with Isofix and head restraints. These fold out from each settee base.

DAYTIME

Swift’s design team has come up with its usual tasteful décor. You might, of course, want to jazz things up with some snazzier scatter cushions, rugs or throws etc.

There’s plenty of room in the lounge, where both cab seats swivel to join inward-facing settees around a fixed pedestal leg table. The table has manual fore-and-aft and electric height adjustment.

Heating comes from Truma’s Combi with the facility to operate while travelling. My only concern was whether the blown air outlets could be better situated – there needs to be one nearer the cab area, surely?

NIGHT-TIME

There is lots of lighting in the back bedroom, along with two side windows and a standard rooflight. The twin 6ft 5in x 2ft 7in single beds are supremely comfortable, with fixed steps (both with hinged lids for handy storage) to aid access. However, setting the beds high means it’s hard to sit upright on the mattresses. Surprisingly, the mattresses aren’t on any

TECHNICAL

Price (as tested)

69,290 OTR

Engine

2.0-litre Euro 6d Power

155bhp (116kW) @3,500rpm

Torque

288lb ft (390Nm) @2,500rpm Transmission

Six-speed automatic, FWD MRO

3,129kg

MTPLM

3,500kg

User payload

371kg

Overall length 25ft 9in (7.85m)

Overall width (mirrors folded)

7ft 9in (2.37m)

Overall height 9ft 5in (2.87m)

Max internal height 6ft 11in (2.11m)

Fuel/tank/econ

Diesel/15.4gals (70 litres)/26-30mpg

Figures from manufacturer s literature

To see a video of this test (and many more), download the Digital Magazine via the App Store or Google Play. Remember to search for CAMC Magazine’.

“

The twin single beds are supremely comfortable ”

From top: plenty of room in the garage; well-equipped cab; spacious lounge with inward-facing settees; fixed steps aid access to rear beds

kind of slats meaning you’ll want to turn or prop them up occasionally to keep them well ventilated. Their specification is otherwise impressive – Duvalay Duvalite Alto units which contain recyclable polyester and memory foam.

A double bed can also be made from the lounge seating by lowering the table to an appropriate height, plus there’s an extending section to the offside settee.

KITCHEN

Swift rarely disappoints with its kitchens and this is another fine example. However, despite the space saved using Thetford’s Triplex Plus cooker (three gas burners and an electric hotplate, plus a combined oven and grill), there’s not much in the way of work surface and no extension to alleviate the issue. Larger cutlery drawers would also be a bonus, but otherwise there is plenty of storage, and if you forgo the microwave there will be two further high-level lockers.

Across the corridor is a 133-litre Dometic fridge with removable freezer section, automatic energy selection and dual-hinged door. It’s set off the floor to make access all the easier.

WASHROOM

The washing facilities are split between a shower cubicle on the offside and a toilet room nearside. It's possible to shut them both off, as required, while sliding doors keep the bedroom private and a solid door closes off the main living quarters. Underfoot you’ll find tile-effect flooring.

The Ecocamel shower is partly on the wheel arch but that’s unlikely to provide much of a nuisance. Only one plughole might be a problem at certain times if your pitching isn’t level; my only other criticism is that the positioning of the toilet roll holder made things a bit of a squeeze.

DETAILS

Lots of useful details add further to the 584’s appeal. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are included (but there is no fire extinguisher), for example, and remote control central locking applies to the habitation door. Reading lights on stalks over each cab seat will be appreciated by bookworms, and there are handy mains sockets here as well. A touch-sensitive electrical control panel is easy to operate.

Positive catches for the high-level lockers work well, and the capacity of the lockers is generous. Storage elsewhere is very good – there’s a wardrobe in the nearside bed base; a shelved cupboard offside houses the Truma boiler; there’s also room for a deep drawer in each bed base.

A branded umbrella sits in the habitation door, and an illuminated grab handle will help when you get in. A fold-out double coat hook is a nice touch, and exterior running lights come on when you open the side door. Meanwhile, a 100W solar panel is standard and there are sockets for a TV just inside the habitation door and on the wall at the foot of the nearside bed. There are also lots of USB ports and plenty of lighting.

From far left: kitchen has limited work surface; the toilet room is separate from the shower cubicle; doors seal off various living areas

VERDICT

This is a well-executed motorhome that offers a touch of luxury at a competitive price. Ford’s Transit offers a lovely driving experience and Swift hasn’t compromised on the base vehicle specification. Vehicle supplied for testing by:

You can insure this motorhome with the Club for £385.45 per year. Please see camc.com/ insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for further details.

*Quote (correct as of 6 January 2023) is for the model tested worth £69,290 OTR 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 £350 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.

A rear cycle rack can be fitted

LEVELLING UP

Rob McCabe tries out the Coachman Acadia 545, and finds an impressive spec at a great price

The concept of an ‘entry-level’ caravan is all very relative. For example, this Acadia 545 and its 575 sibling are the cheapest Coachman caravans you can buy, yet they boast a standard equipment list that would have been found on a range-topper not so long ago.

But does the end-bedroom/centre-washroom 545 offer enough to tempt would-be Coachman buyers away from the posher VIP and Laser models? Let’s see.

BUILD QUALITY

The handsome bodyshell, boasting silver-finished sidewalls and polished black alloy wheels, suggests

quality – and that’s what you get. The joinery is meticulous throughout, and it’s reassuring to encounter detailed touches such as dovetail joints and metal runners on the drawers, and solid metal shelf supports inside the lockers.

Coachman’s Advanced Bonded Construction sees the body panels fully bonded on to a polyurethane frame. So confident is Coachman in its build quality that it gives a 10-year water ingress warranty to back it up – so long as you keep the caravan serviced by the book, of course.

TOWING

The MTPLM of 1,585kg is hardly feather-light, but still brings the Acadia within the capabilities of a healthy number of SUVs. And because the heavy

stuff on board is optimally sited around the axle, it should be easy to ensure a nicely balanced caravan when you’re ready for the off.

When you do get on your way, the desirable duo of the built-in hitch stabiliser and Al-Ko ATC will quietly go about their business to give you a relaxed, easy time of it.

DAYTIME

Quite often, the compromise in a single-axle caravan with an in-line fixed bed is most obvious in the lounge, and so it is in the 545 – dimensionally speaking, at least. Coachman lists the parallel sofas as single beds – but bear in mind they’re only 4ft 9in long. That said, two of you can still lounge feet-up in perfect comfort, and the plump, supportive seating is fine for four in a cosy kind of way.

The front chest features an excellent contoured table-top that runs in one piece across the entire width of the lounge – attractive and practical in equal measure. Thanks to the pull-out extension, you’ll rarely require the freestanding table; however, it is easy to set it up as it is stored close by in the kitchen area.

The 545 will be used almost exclusively as a couple’s caravan and, bearing that in mind, storage provision is generous. Accessing the space under the fixed bed is a simple, one-handed operation thanks to hydraulic assistance and, as well as an exterioraccess locker on the nearside, there’s a useful hatch on the edge of the sofa as you come in the door. I’d call it a shoe hatch but, hey – put whatever you want in it.

TV connectivity is provided on the nearside dresser by the entrance door and on the bedroom wall, and the very good Pioneer stereo has a USB slot so you can play your own music from your phone or tablet. There’s no DAB radio or Bluetooth, though –that’s a £200 option. There’s a gas barbecue point on the nearside wall, alongside a mains socket – and there are another five inside.

NIGHT-TIME

Pulling out the sweetly gliding slats and rearranging the upholstery quickly results in a big, comfortable double bed up front for overnighting guests and, thanks to a quartet of reading lights, they’re guaranteed some personal illumination wherever they lay their heads. The user-friendly central location of the washroom also means they can pay a visit in the night without having to tiptoe through the bedroom or endure an expedition to the site facilities.

The rear bedroom is wonderful. The bed itself pushes back to so-called ‘day mode’, creating an impressive amount of floorspace to get dressed in. Fully extended, it’s 6ft 2in long, with a foam mattress that offers a luxurious level of comfort and support.

Both occupants have a generous bedside table as well as a wall-mounted pouch that easily accommodates slimline items such as phones, specs and remote controls. There are two mains sockets, one of which is perfectly situated for hairdryer/straightener duties in front of one of the two mirrors in the washroom area. The big sunroof will discreetly let in all the daylight you want if you like to keep the blinds closed on the two windows while you savour that morning cuppa in bed.

KITCHEN

A bespoke finish on the locker and cupboard doors helps give this smart kitchen its own identity; and because the fridge is on the nearside, the entire kitchen structure benefits from this cabinetry – it doesn’t half look nice. So too does the splashguard panel on the offside wall – which can’t always be said about these fitments.

The granite-look work surface is pleasingly chunky and there’s a decent amount of it, especially when the fold-down extension is brought into play. The dresser top on the nearside can also be used for

TECHNICAL

Price: £31,500 OTR

Bed sizes:

Front double: 6ft 7in x 4ft 5in or two singles (4ft 9in x 2ft 4in)

Rear island double: 6ft 2in x 4ft 6in

Heating:

Alde wet central heating

Fridge: Dometic fridge/ freezer

Toilet: Thetford

MRO: 1,430kg

MTPLM: 1,585kg

User payload: 155kg

Overall length: 24ft 3in (7.39m)

Overall width: 7ft 5in (2.26m)

Overall height (inc TV aerial): 8ft 8in (2.65m)

Max headroom: 6ft 5in (1.96m)

Figures taken from manufacturer s literature

Comfy lounge

Door separates living area and washroom

Rear bedroom in 'day-mode'

Twin settees are only 4ft 9in long

EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY ACROSS THE COLLECTION

THE 2023 COLLECTION

With five exceptional caravan ranges and a brand new motorhome range exclusively for 2023, the Coachman collection just got better. Each Coachman caravan and motorhome is finished with the highest levels of specification and features.

CARAVANS 2-5 berth | From £30,850*

MOTORHOMES 4 berth | £127,500 OTR**

kitchen duties, although it’ll be limited if you’ve put the telly there.

A dual-fuel hob with separate oven and grill, plus a very nicely fitted microwave, gives you the full house of cooking options.

WASHROOM

This is where we find the most obvious change from last year’s model. Whereas the 2022 Acadia 545 had an all-in-one washroom from which you accessed the rear bedroom via a sliding door on each side, this one has a ‘corridor’ separating the shower compartment on the offside, and the loo/wash basin opposite. A sliding fabric blind shuts off the bedroom.

As such, this washroom doesn’t have the same visual appeal as its predecessor, and the loo compartment feels a bit pinched when you’re in there with the door closed. Said door doubles as the one that shuts off the front of the caravan, so you do have the option of just leaving it closed in that position.

It’s effectively lit, the mirrors are usefully large, there’s decent storage and, as you’d expect, you get the glamour of the ‘boutique’ wash basin and the towel rail/radiator.

LIGHTING

Everywhere you’d want to have lighting, you’ve got it: four reading lights in the lounge and two in the bedroom; illuminated shower cubicle and mirrors; underslung LED strips in the kitchen and nearside dresser, both of which are touch-dimmable.

In the bedroom, the ceiling-level lighting is concealed behind the furniture, which lends a classy

air to proceedings. Up front, ambient lighting swoops upwards from the very front and carries on back. The usual variety of switching options gives you plenty of choice before you sit back and relax with a glass of wine at the end of a hard day’s holidaying. Well, it does take it out of you sometimes, doesn’t it?

VERDICT

Very nicely finished, thoughtfully equipped and an excellent layout. At today’s prices, it looks like good value for money too.

You can cover this caravan with the Club for £485.91* per year. See camc.com/caravancover or call 01342 336610 for further details.

With thanks to:

Coachman Caravan Company Ltd (coachman.co.uk, 01482 839737)

*Based on Standard cover on a new-for-old cover basis, with a cover limit of £31,500 (caravan and equipment), £500 contents cover and £200 voluntary excess. Includes 4+ years no claims discount (not protected). Includes security discounts of 15% for Al-Ko ATC, 10% for alarm with PIR & tilt sensor. Subject to underwriting – a copy of the cover wording is available on request. Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for general insurance and credit activities.

Stylish lockers and cupboards in the kitchen

Boutique-style sink in the washroom

Handy storage pockets

Shower cubicle

ONLY £20 per pair + p&p

and 13.

Uppers: Man-made. Lining/Socks: Textile. Soles: Man-made.

Order Style MJ317

Spring forward

The daffodils are raising their heads, heralding the start of a new season and brighter days ahead. This is our cue to get our caravans or motorhomes out of storage and ready them for new adventures. Carrying out a few simple tasks and checks will aid a smooth return to the road – this is not a definitive list, but here are some important things to remember...

EXTERIOR

You may find that the winter weather has taken its toll on your prized possession –rotten leaves may be blocking the gutters or you may spot stains on the roof and black streak marks down the sides. This is a good time to give your vehicle a thorough wash using products such as Autoglym Caravan and Motorhome Cleaner or something from Fenwicks’ range. Don’t forget to use a small brush to evict any insects that have taken refuge in your awning rail!

It is crucial that you assess the condition of the tyres. As well as the tread depth, check the side walls as these can deteriorate following a lengthy period of inactivity. If you spot any cracks or bulging on a tyre, replace it

immediately. Pressures also need checking – this should be done when the tyres are cold. Your owner’s handbook or the data plate on the side of your vehicle will advise on the correct settings. It’s wise to purchase a good-quality gauge; those with a dial are usually best.

Don’t forget to check the tyre pressure on the spare wheel. Sometimes the spare is transported under the vehicle on a carrier featuring telescopic tubing – check this too as ungreased tubes can rust solid.

Check the wheel nuts/bolts on your caravan’s wheels using a calibrated torque wrench; these are available from motoring shops (like Halfords) or caravan/motorhome dealerships. Your handbook should set out the procedure; if not, consult your local dealership.

On towcars, grime from winter roads can damage your towbar socket(s), although this is less of a problem with 13-pin connectors than was the case with older 7-pin ones. If they do need cleaning, use electrical contact cleaner and cotton buds or pipe cleaners to shift stubborn marks. Give the caravan’s plug(s) similar treatment – this should keep the contacts shiny and clean for many months.

Next, couple car and caravan to ensure all the road lights working. Then inspect the lights themselves: if any of the seals are deteriorating, water may have crept in.

It is important to maintain your leisure battery over the winter months. Some people remove it completely and trickle charge it at home; others leave it in place and use a solar trickle charger such as the Milenco Solar by Optimate. A fully charged conventional

As the main touring season approaches, Sammy Faircloth rounds up some key pre-trip jobs

This small brush removes any debris from the groove of the awning rail

lead-acid leisure battery should have a reading of 12.7V: a reading below 12.2V probably means that the battery has discharged completely and needs replacing.

LPG is in short supply at the moment, so it pays to keep on top of how much is left in your cylinder. The weight of a full Calor cylinder is painted the side wall in kg, while its empty weight is marked on the collar in lb/oz.

To convert the latter figure into kg, divide it by 2.2 (remembering there are 16oz in a lb). Now you can calculate how much gas is left in the cylinder by simply placing it on some bathroom scales.

Alternatively, there are gadgets available to make things easier. The Truma LevelCheck is simply positioned against the cylinder and uses ultrasound to provide an estimate. Meanwhile Truma LevelControl attaches to the bottom of the cylinder and relays readings to an app on your smartphone. Club members can save on both systems via Club Shop – visit shop.camc. com for more information. Note: These systems can be used with conventional steel

or aluminium cylinders filled with butane or propane, but not plastic or user-refillable cylinders or fixed tanks

INTERIOR

It can get quite dusty in a caravan/motorhome after months of storage (and you may find that spiders have take up residence), so give the interior a good clean. Hopefully you left the doors of the refrigerator/freezer compartment open while your vehicle was out of action – but check now that there is no mould or mildew present.

The water/waste pipes and tanks need to be cleaned and sterilised. Use a product designed for use in caravans and motorhomes, and which won’t leave your water with an aftertaste (household products are not suitable for this reason). Avoid using chlorine-based cleaners, which are bad for the pipes and will affect the taste of the water.

Now is also the time to carry out some maintenance on the toilet cassette – freshen things up using a tank cleaner

Give your vehicle interior a spring clean

FINAL THOUGHTS …

Good preparation, cleaning and safety checks before you hit the road again will minimise problems that could eat into your precious holiday time.

and spray the rubber seal with a seal lubricant.

The data plate on the side of a caravan should display necessary tyre pressures and torque settings

Invest in a good-quality tyre-pressure gaugeCheck the condition of the spare wheel and its tyre pressure; and that the telescopic tubes have not rusted on the carrier

Use electrical contact cleaner if your car-caravan connector is dirty

Some owners keep their leisure battery topped up at home using a trickle charger

A multimeterwill help you determine the status of your leisure battery

Truma’s LevelCheck measures the content of a gas cylinder

Stay and play

Details of the five clubs (six courses) making up the Atlantic Golf Links

Play: Burnham and Berrow

Contact: burnhamand berrowgolfclub.co.uk, 01278 785760

Stay at: Hurn Lane

Club Campsite

Play: Saunton (East and West courses)

Contact: saunton golf.co.uk, 01271 812436

Stay: Willingcott (pictured), Ilfracombe or Damage Barton

Club campsites

Play: Royal North Devon

Contact: royalnorth devongolfclub.co.uk, 01237 473817

Stay at: Wooda Farm Holiday Park

Play: St Enodoc

Contact: st-enodoc. co.uk, 01208 863216

Stay at: Camelford Club Campsite

Play: Trevose

Contact: trevose-gc. co.uk, 01841 520208

Stay at: Treamble

Valley Club Campsite

“

A round at Royal North Devon is so much more: history lesson, nature ramble, mindfulness session ”

Greatest hits

Stephen Hollis combines a family motorhome holiday with golf on some of England’s finest links

There is no doubt that Mark Twain had a way with words, but I’d argue he never flushed an 8-iron to within four feet of the hole, before tapping in for a birdie on a stunningly beautiful seaside links.

If he had, then there is no way the great American writer would have uttered the famous line that ‘golf is a good walk spoiled’. That saying sums up perfectly the Marmite appeal of the sport (although – despite popular opinion – Twain was almost certainly not the first to say it!)

A round at Royal North Devon (originally designed by four-time Open champion Old Tom Morris in 1864) is not just about the golf or even the walking. It is so much more: history lesson, nature ramble, mindfulness session.

The course in Westward Ho! is one of six dotted along the coastline in south-west England which form the Atlantic Links trail.

Tailor-made packages to play all six, including accommodation, are available, but the network snaking from North Somerset, through Devon to Cornwall is perfect for caravanners or motorhomers on a less extravagant budget. Just throw your clubs and golf shoes in the motorhome

garage – or boot of the car – and you’re ready to go. And the beauty of the region for those of the Mark Twain persuasion – my wife and two teenage daughters on this occasion – is that they can enjoy numerous other attractions during a break, including fabulous beaches and coast path walks. While you could probably squeeze in a round at each of the six layouts over the course of a week, I opted to sample three, using Club sites in North Somerset and North Devon as bases.

Our first stop was at Hurn Lane Club Campsite in Burnham-on-Sea, which is within walking distance of Burnham and Berrow Golf Club – a mere pup in comparison to Royal North Devon, having been established in 1891. A round on the stunning Championship course will set you back £130, while with the nine-hole Channel course is a more affordable £35.

Hurn Lane is also handily placed to explore Brean Down, a stunning natural promontory managed by the National Trust which extends one and a half miles from the seemingly endless golden sands of Brean beach into the Bristol Channel. We left our motorhome in the car park by the beach and climbed the 200-plus steps to the top to enjoy sensational views out to sea and north towards Weston-super-Mare.

This page from top: Stephen with clubs at the ready; the best of coast and country; Rosie enjoys a spot of fresh air

Left: St Enodoc

Opposite: Royal North Devon

At the tip of Brean Down is a decommissioned Victorian fort which was originally built in the 1860s and then adapted for experimental weapons testing during the Second World War. It made for a fascinating rest stop, especially when we read the story of how one trial went disastrously wrong and blew up a chicken run...

WILLING AND ABLE

Our next stop was Willingcott Club Campsite in North Devon – an area which we have visited many times as a family and love returning to. The site is perched on top of a hill to the south of Ilfracombe and east of Woolacombe, offering wonderful views on a clear day.

After setting up we took the footpath down to Woolacombe Beach in search of ice cream but a sudden downpour made the walk back – all uphill to boot – a little less enjoyable.

Thankfully the weather improved for my round at Saunton Golf Club the following morning. Poor route planning meant a slightly tricky drive in the motorhome along narrow lanes, which I would have been able to avoid completely if I had been better prepared. It did mean I was able to drop my non-golfing family – including dog Rosie – off in Croyde so they could enjoy a leisurely walk along the South West Coast Path, with a plan to meet me on the beach at Saunton Sands for a late lunch.

The golf club was founded in 1897 and boasts two superb courses – East and West – tucked just back from the beach and sheltered by the huge dunes of Braunton Burrows. The club has a noteworthy golfing history, having hosted prestigious events such as the English Amateur and British Ladies Championship, while a certain Sergio Garcia won the British Boys Championship there in 1997.

I was booked to play the West Course which hugs the coastline, so you can hear the waves throughout (but you rarely get a glimpse of the sea due to those towering dunes). The East is considered by many to be the superior of the two but the West Course was among the best I have ever experienced. The club’s status is reflected in a green fee of £130 during peak season although cheaper ’twilight’ rates are available.

The rest of the afternoon – and the next day in fact – was spent messing around on Saunton Sands beach, which is ideal for dogs. The area near the car park can get busy but it’s not difficult to find a spot all to yourself farther along.

ROYAL APPOINTMENT

A wonderful week combining golf and beach life was brought to a close with a 45-minute drive from Willingcott to Royal North Devon Golf Club – granted its royal status by Queen Victoria in 1867. I dropped my family in the car park and they were able to walk right across the course to the coast as it is built on common land. Golfers must also be aware of sheep and other livestock grazing the fairways!

Royal North Devon oozes history – it has been described as the St Andrews of the south – and boasts some holes that run right along the shoreline. It is also largely flat – the 6th hole is called ‘Alp’ because you tee off from the highest point on the course, but otherwise you won’t need your climbing boots.

It can get quite breezy here, but the weather was kind to me, meaning the main concern was keeping out of the fearsome bunkers and drainage channels that criss-cross the course. I might not have matched the standards of five-time Open champion J H Taylor, who grew up playing on the course, but that mattered not a jot as I could simply shrug off a bad shot by taking in the wonder of my surroundings.

I’d had the privilege of playing three of the finest courses in Britain and combined it with a family motorhome holiday – all without breaking the bank. I would have loved to have extended my stay to enjoy St Enodoc and Trevose – which are located handily close to each other near Padstow in Cornwall – and complete the Atlantic Links trail, but I’ll have to save them for another day.

“

I’d had the privilege of playing three of the finest courses in Britain ”

Above: the 4th hole at Trevose

Below: the atmospheric Saunton links

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Centre Lines

The latest news from around the country

RALLY ROSTER

Each month we highlight rallies taking place within or near the region covered by our main touring feature (p26-36 this issue). See centre websites for more information.

30 March-3 April

GREAT TURNOUT

e occupants o 2 out its pitc e up o ast o ks i e ent e s e ea ally at i iel o g oun e e ent, ic as een un o 21 yea s y istine an enis along it t ei a le co- a s als, as ugely en oya le ig lig ts inclu e oo e e y e ening, li e usic an enis on is ecks t as g eat to see e e s o ot e cent es oining in t e un e e s to next yea

THAT WAS MAGIC!

North Essex celebrated the new year by welcoming members from 10 i e ent cent es o t e t s in o agic ally at inity a k in ps ic ccupants o so e units tu ne up o t e ou -nig t e ent ig lig ts inclu e a pe o ance o an a a ing singing g oup, a e ea s e ancy ess isco ( itc es, i a s, la in, t olls an a giant unico n e e all spotte ), a agician an a couple o o ie

a te noons o nig ts o elicious food and cheese and biscuits ensu e e e yone ate ell too anks to e ent a s als a y an e ie, Greg and ina, a ion an ick an Jason and Dawn for all their hard o k

NEW YEAR CHEER

o ceste s i e ent e sa in 202 y osting a a ulous ally at yas a ol , 12 iles sout - est o e e o tten ees en oye a a iety o ente tain ent, inclu ing t e usic o a, a ui , a isco an a sing-along allie s e e also ell e , it a ull nglis eak ast p o i e eac o ning, a a ulous ot inne en oye on nig t one an a tasty u et lai on u ing t e isco g eat ti e as a y e e yone

Forth and Clyde Centre (scc-forthand-clyde.co.uk), The Falkirk Wheel, Tamfourhill, Falkirk

ALL ABROAD

13-17 April

Forth and Clyde Centre (scc-forthand-clyde.co.uk), Historic Views

Rally, Strathallan Games Park, Bridge of Allan, Stirling

Domaine de Beaulieu is just a short drive from an excellent sandy beach and the fishing port of Saint-GillesCroix-de-Vie. Optional overnight stops are included in the package.

25 July-7 August

Location: Camping L’Océano d’Or

Host Centre: West Wales

Details of overseas centre rallies in 2023

FRANCE

13 June-4 July

Location: Camping Baie d’Aunis

Host Centre: Dyfed

The popular campsite of Baie d’Aunis is located just 300m from the seaside town of La Tranche-surMer and offers access to a very inviting beach. Optional overnight stops are also included within the package.

12-24 June

Location: Camping La Yole

Host Centre: Suffolk Centre

La Yole is located close to the sandy beaches of the Vendée. A little farther along the coast is the lively and chic seaside resort of Saint-Jean-de-Monts where you will find bars, restaurants and a daily market.

22 July-5 August

Location: Le Domaine de Beaulieu

Host Centre: South Wales

Camping L’Océano d’Or is a well-run and attractive campsite close to the popular seaside resort of Jard-surMer in the Vendée. Optional overnight stops are included in the package.

19 August-2 September

Location: Camping La Yole

Host Centre: Bedfordshire

Camping La Yole has everything you need for a perfect summer holiday near the white sandy beaches of the Vendée.

GERMANY

4-19 August

Location: Eifel-Camp

Host Centre: Worcestershire

This campsite is located in the picturesque region of North Rhine-Westphalia close to Lake Freilinger. An overnight stop in Belgium is included in the package.

Rallies can be booked through Alan Rogers, part of The Caravan Club Ltd. For more information see rallies.alanrogers.com, email rallies@alanrogers.com or call 01580 214070.

Falkirk Wheel

La Tranche-sur-Mer

EVENTS DIARY

Are you looking for some holiday inspiration? Why not take in an event while staying at a C ca s e or e orar s e?

Edinburgh International Harp Festival

7-11 April

Stay at: Edinburgh Club Campsite

The 42nd edition of this festival takes place at George Watson’s College in the Scottish capital. Full details of concerts, courses and workshops were being finalised as this issue went to press (see harpfestival.co.uk for further information), but performers announced include Kim Robertson (USA), Michael Rooney (Ireland), Gillian Fleetwood (Scotland), DRÅM: Erik Ask-Upmark and Anna Rynefors (Sweden) and Eva Curth (Germany). Some courses will also be available over Zoom.

Harrogate Spring Flower Show

20 -23 April

Stay at: Knaresborough Club Campsite

The Great Yorkshire Showground is the venue for this celebration of all things gardening. Attractions will include a Floral Art Pavilion – this year’s themes include a celebration of British inventions and a floral dedication to the forthcoming coronation of King Charles III. Meanwhile a programme of talks and demonstrations will take place, in theatres t t e e uman ar ener e ar ener s Kitchen, Grow Live and Create! Visit flowershow. r u f r m re nf rmat n e u s

Knaresborough campsite is less than a 15-minute drive from the venue.

Bournemouth Writing Festival

21-23 April

a a er s Moo a craf a e ores Ce e ar C ca s es

Designed to inspire all writers and would-be authors, visitors to this Dorset event can enjoy the likes of walks, talks, workshops, panel discussions and networking events dotted across venues in the

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area. Talks scheduled include ‘Writing crime thrillers on the South Coast’ by Sunday Times bestselling author Heidi Perks on Saturday and ‘Getting your work published’ by Dan Hancock (Sunday). Visit bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk to find out more.

Thriplow Daffodil Weekend & Country Fair 25

-26 March

a a er for sh re Ce re e orar s e o ere a e March

This colourful, charity fundraising festival takes place in the village of Thriplow, close to the M11, about eight miles from Cambridge. Browse around 100 stalls, enjoy family activities, watch the blacksmiths at work in the smithy and be entertained by the Morris dancers. The temporary site is set in Fowlmere village – fresh water and chemical waste disposal available. Contact Sandie on 01767 640263/07887 541762 or email sandiejevans@ gmail.com. For information on the Daffodil Weekend, see thriplowdaffodils.org.uk.

Royal Windsor Horse Show

11-14 May

a a c s Ce re e orar s e a sor aceco rse Ma

Held in the grounds of Windsor Castle, this event sees some of the world’s best horses and riders competing in carriage driving, show jumping, dressage, polo and more. You may also like to explore Windsor and Eton or visit St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle and pay your respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II. The temporary site will be on Windsor Racecourse and is hosted by Buckinghamshire Centre. Electric hook-ups, fresh water and a chemical waste disposal point will be available (please note you will need to use your on-board washroom and toilet facilities). Members booked to stay on site will be offered discounts on tickets for both the Horse Show and the expected evening pageant. Contact Pat on 07950 841702 for further information or email buckscentreevents@gmail.com. For more information on the show, see rwhs.co.uk.

The Royal Cheshire County Show 20 -21 June

Stay at: Cheshire Centre temporary site o os e he sho ro e

This annual show in Tabley near Knutsford offers attractions for all the family including livestock displays, a vintage machinery exhibition, dog shows and plenty of entertainment in the main arena. The temporary site opposite the show ground has fresh water and chemical waste disposal – and offers opportunities to visit local stately homes and market towns. Advance tickets at a discounted price granting admission to the show for both days are available from the site organisers. Contact Paul and Sandra Bowler on 01782 513276/07974 107078 or email bowler.rallies@btinternet.com

e s s e a e s ec o cha e ease chec h or a sers r or o ra e

Note re temporary sites: please book in advance where possible. If you would like to promote a temporary site set up around a major event, please contact magazine@camc.com.

ASK YOUR CLUB

Cylinder availability

QWhat’s happening with the supply of small gas cylinders? I’ve heard they’re no longer available.

AWe were informed in January that from 1 February 2023, Calor’s Cube, 3.9kg propane, 4.5kg butane, 6Lite propane and 12kg butane cylinders will be discontinued. The Calor website (calor.co.uk/ cylinder-range-faq) has further details. Availability of the 6Lite propane cylinder has been poor for some time as many Club members will be aware. Calor states that reducing its cylinder range will simplify its business, helping it improve service for the remaining cylinder sizes.

The Cube is sold as a patio gas cylinder, but the others have been popular with leisure vehicle users, especially those with smaller/lighter outfits. Calor suggests the following alternatives but there may be issues for some users:

3.9kg propane – Calor suggests its 6kg propane, but this is much taller and appreciably heavier than the 3.9kg.

4.5kg butane – Calor suggests its 7kg butane, but again this is taller and heavier.

6Lite propane – Calor’s standard 6kg propane is generally viable but is heavier.

12kg butane – Calor suggests its 15kg butane but its 13kg propane would also be an option.

Calor’s suggestion of the Campingaz 907 2.7kg butane cylinder if space is really tight has

some merit, but this is a small capacity and relatively expensive option. It might suit those whose gas usage is really low, perhaps.

Campingaz cylinders are distributed in the UK by Flogas (flogas.co.uk) and anyone looking for alternative cylinder options might wish to check what else Flogas supplies. It offers 3.9kg propane, 4.5kg butane, 6kg propane, 7kg butane and larger cylinders. It also does the lightweight plastic Gaslight range in 5kg and 10kg propane.

Regional availability is good (use flogasni.com and flogas.ie for Northern Ireland and Ireland) and its cylinders are increasingly appearing in retailers like DIY stores and such like. The challenge is its cylinder dimensions are not necessarily the same (especially the 3.9kg propane which is significantly taller than Calor’s and the Gaslight cylinders which are relatively wide). Check if they fit before buying.

Another option is to switch to a user-refillable cylinder. These are relatively costly to buy, but more affordable to refill. Hence they suit relatively heavy users of gas or those touring across several countries, as conventional cylinders can rarely be exchanged outside their country of origin. Gaslow (gaslowdirect. com) do 2.7kg, 6kg and 11kg cylinders, Safefill (safefill.co.uk) provides 5kg, 7.5kg and 10kg ones and GAS IT (gasit.co.uk) offers 6kg and 11kg sizes. Do research how to use these cylinders safely and make sure the filling network suits you.

If you switch brands, you should return your existing cylinder(s) and hopefully redeem at least some of the cylinder charge. Calor’s advice is available at calor.co.uk/gas-bottles/ refills-and-returns/returns – note you need the original supply contract paperwork.

This is a developing situation and the Club will be monitoring issues with cylinder supply in months to come. We will update with further advice as necessary.

Please address your questions to: Technical Information, Email: technical@camc.com Tel: 01342 336611

...and quote your membership number camc.com/advice

The Club’s technical team answers your pressing questions

“Another option is to switch to a user-refillable cylinder ”

The Club will be monitoring issues with cylinder supply

CODE WORD

Can you solve this grid? The answers are on the side of the page

To try more puzzles download the Digital Magazine from the App Store or Google Play. Remember to search for ‘CAMC Magazine’.

HOW TO PLAY

This puzzle has no clues in the conventional sense. Instead, every number printed in the main grid represents a different letter (with the same number always representing the same letter of course). For example, if 8 turns out to be a V , you can write in V where er a s uare contains 8.

£90 in Club gift vouchers to be won CROSSWORD

C f o chers will be won by the sender of the first correct solution selected on Friday 24 March 2023. Four runners-up will each receive C f o chers

Please c ear ho o ra h sca o r a s er r a e a o cross or ca c co Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry.

ACROSS

1 Midlands city (10)

6 Empty and vacant (10)

11 Accumulate debts (3,2)

12 Commonplace (3-2-3-4)

14 Weeps uncontrollably (4)

16 Dusting powder (4)

17 Meadowland (3)

18 Provide party food (5)

20 Wood-cutting tool (6)

21 Game like poker (4)

22 Wireless (5)

23 Bathroom off bedroom (2,5)

25 Concious self (3)

26 Long-necked animal (7)

28 Army canteen (4)

29 First course (7)

33 Stingy person (10)

35 Putting right (10)

38 Land of the Blarney Stone (7)

41 Seaman’s cry (4)

42 Kilt pouch ( 7)

45 Tell tall tales (3)

46 Against the law (7)

48 Excessively chewy (5)

49 Boxing enclosure (4)

50 Large lizard (6)

52 Electricity cable tower (5)

54 n t s t t e (3)

55 A cry for assistance (4)

57 Fathers (4)

NAME:

MEMBERSHIP NUMBER:

The Caravan and Motorhome Club is processing your personal data for the purpose of administering your competition entry. If you would like to know more about how we process personal data, please visit our Privacy Policy at camc.com/privacy-policy.

59 Public protestor (12)

60 ne s e ua s (5)

61 Maternity unit (6,4)

62 Food poisoning bug (10)

Our Digital Magazine features a variety of interactive puzzles! Download it from the App Store or Google Play. Remember to search for CAMC Ma a e

DOWN

1 Housebreaking (8)

2 Ordinary members (4,3,4)

3 Cheeky fairies (4)

4 Lucky footwear? (9)

5 Single eyeglass (7)

6 Out of shape (5)

7 Alternative (5 )

8 French cheese (9 )

9 Animal hide (4)

10 Drink-induced bravery (5,7)

13 Biggest (7)

15 How lovely! (3)

19 Water-based paint (8)

20 Dark soft drink (4)

24 Turnip (4)

27 Falsified a signature (5)

29 Take away or remove (5)

30 Part of a curve (3)

31 The one weak point (8,4)

32 Plan of action (8)

34 Podded vegetable (3)

36 Briefly and concisely (2,1,8)

37 Settee (4)

39 Green gemstone (7)

40 Person next door (9)

42 Rogue (9)

43 Taking turns list (4)

44 Magnetic charm (8)

47 Thick cough syrup (7)

51 Silent agreement (3)

52 Spaghetti (5)

53 Unpleasantly bright in colour (5)

56 Mexican money (4)

58 Twist round quickly (4)

For full terms and conditions of entry, please visit our website at camc.com/competitions

JANUARY WINNERS

£50 first prize: John Wallace

£10 runners-up: Elizabeth Selkirk; Dorothy Browse; David Pinkney; Sian Moore

Please note: prizes will be posted as soon as possible

Take a photo or scan your answers and send to crossword@camc.com with the subject heading March Cross or . Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry

TAIL LIGHTS

Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring

PARTY TIME

Many belated happy returns to Kathryn Sim who sent in this photo of her surprise joint birthday cake (shared with husband Alan). “It included our beloved caravan and made our 150th birthday party extra special this summer! Pity we had to eat it,” jokes Kathryn. A fantastic job by the baker.

Rainbow road

Nichola Sloan was staying at Alken CL near Bushmills in County Antrim when this spectacular rainbow appeared. Looks like a passing pheasant was quite impressed with it, too!

That’s very fetching

Site staff at Henley Four Oaks Club Campsite have created a ‘stick library’ for dogs and their owners to use. Member Ang Climpson found them very useful for her four-legged friend to play with on the site’s enclosed dog walk. And no fines for late returns...

STRIPED SURPRISE

To see an additional Tail Lights page, download the Digital Magazine via the App Store or Google Play. Remember to search for M 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.

BIJOU BEAUTY

Pah, who needs an 8ft-wide caravan anyway? Certainly not the owner of this petite tourer, who pitched up at Old Hartley recently. Our thanks to Jackie Evans for the picture.

You know the feeling... you invite a dear friend around for afternoon tea, and when they arrive you realise you’ve forgotten to buy them any grass to eat. Awkward, to say the least! “This zebra paid an unexpected visit to our friend’s home near Howick... the estate has animals that wander around,” explain motorhoming Club members Rhys and Norma Rolfe, who live in South Africa and regularly visit the UK and Europe.

TAIL LIGHTS

Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring

OUTER SIGHTS

We received a number of photos from Jill and Simon Ward, but here are a couple from the top and bottom of the Outer Hebrides, roughly speaking. First we have Mollans Rainbow Shed in Shawbost on Lewis – these honesty shacks are dotted around and ensure that travellers never go without supplies, but this one is the most colourful that they came across. Secondly we have the rather minimal surrounds of Barra Airport’s baggage reclaim area. No conveyor belts here, or, as the couple joke: “No searching for lost luggage when travelling in your campervan.”

A classic combination

Ian DeLorean took this photo of two design classics at Body Farm CL, a five-pitch campsite in North Baddesley near Southampton. A 1967 Volkswagen Beetle 1500 towing a

1982 Eriba Puck 120, according to Ian. Whoever owns the delightful duo should be immensely proud –both look as if they just rolled off the forecourt.

PARA MEET

Steven Skeggs was staying at Ferry Meadows Club Campsite in Peterborough when he chanced upon a pair of ring-necked parakeets near the lake. It looks like they have made use of an old woodpecker hole. Very cosy!

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.

Halo there

A magical rainbow halo, as spotted by Paul Eadon while climbing Moel Siabod in Snowdonia on his frst expedition of the year. Perhaps it is a sign indicating a fantastic touring year ahead. Let’s hope so!

Beacon of light

Tackle the beautiful Brecon Beacons the easy way on this flat ride which follows the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. The Brecon Beacons are famed for their rugged, wild hills, but this ride could hardly be gentler. It follows the towpath alongside the peaceful Mon & Brec, as it's affectionately known, while serving up views down onto the far more urgent River Usk.

This is a route to savour, not rush, with the canal frequently voted Britain's prettiest It’s worth allowing time to watch narrowboats pass through Brynich Lock, and gaze out over the walls of Brynich Aqueduct, an engineering masterpiece constructed in 1800. It’s hard to imagine that this 200-year old waterway was once an important transport network, shipping coal, lime and iron ore.

With so much water, there’s wildlife everywhere, with dragonflies flitting about , swans paddling, birdsong in the woodland that lines the canal, and red kites and buzzards soaring overhead.

After about three miles, the route enters the small village of

Pencelli, where there’s a pub whose garden backs up to the canal. Here, there are three options: continue further along the towpath as the canal meanders through the countryside, before retracing your steps; turn around and head directly back alongside the canal to Brecon; or for the satisfaction of completing a loop rather than linear ride, follow the route directions (listed below) along quiet lanes back to the Club site.

Please note that the towpath is a shared trail (beware walkers and dogs), and that the flat, paved path that heads out of Brecon gives way to grass, which could become muddy after rain. Taller cyclists will also need to duck under the many bridges that line the route.

DIRECTIONS

1 From Brecon Beacons Club Campsite turn left at the gates and then left immediately to follow the access road. Follow the footpath sign to Brecon, keeping the road on your right until you reach the A40. Cross four lanes of the dual carriageway, and then cross another four lanes to reach a footpath sign. Head down the steps to the canal, and turn right to head under the tunnel bridge, with the canal on your left. Continue for 2km to Brynich Lock.

Jonathan Manning explores the beautiful Brecon Beacons the easy way on this flat ride alongside one of Britain's prettiest canals

CYCLING VIDEOS

See this route and more at youtube. com/Caravanand MotorhomeClub

The Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine recommends the use of Ordnance Survey maps – your ideal

DOWNLOAD

2 1.9km – At Brynich Lock go straight across the road and continue along the canal, soon crossing the Usk via the aqueduct. Continue with the canal on your left, until Bridge 162, which you cross before continuing with the canal now on your right. Continue to Bridge 153 in Pencelli.

3

6.2km – Leave the towpath at Bridge 153, climb the steps and turn left at the road, passing the Royal Oak in 60m. After a further 120m, turn left by the red phone box and post box, crossing the bridge to reach a road.

ABOUT THE ROUTE

Start/finish: Brecon Beacons Club Campsite, Brecon, Powys LD3 7SH

Distance: 12km /7.4 miles

4

6.4km – Turn right at the road and continue for 2km to a T-junction in Llanfrynach, with a church opposite.

5 8.5km – Turn left at the T-junction and stay on the road for 1.2km to reach a T-junction.

6 9.7km – Turn left at the T-junction, signposted to Brecon and the Taff Trail, and continue for 600m to reach Brynich Lock again.

7 10.3km – Turn left at the lock, keeping the canal on your right, and continue to Bridge 165A. At the end of the tunnel turn left up the steps and retrace your way back across the dual carriageway to the Club site.

Time: 1½ hours

Suitable for: All riders – please be careful when crossing the dual carriageways at the start and end.

Terrain: Paved towpath, mud and asphalt. Hybrid or mountain bikes would be ideal.

Landscape: Flat, pretty canalside path, views through trees to the River Usk.

Refreshments: The Royal Oak, Pencelli. Brynich Lock

© Crown copyright 2023 Ordnance Survey Media 022/23

passport to navigating Britain Brynich Aqueduct

Centre Raly Guide

A guide to all Centre Rallies taking place in 2023

Dumfries & Galloway Centre Rally

Photo by Julie Irving

Port Isaac while rallying with Leicestershire Centre

Photo by Jason Jones

Discover your local Centre

What is a Centre?

The Club has many local Centres across the UK and Ireland that are at the very heart of our community spirit. Each Centre regularly organises rallies, providing the fun, social aspect of caravanning.

The Centres are run by a voluntary committee and membership is free to all Club members. You can only belong to one Centre at a time, but you don’t have to join your local Centre. If you have friends or family who are members of another Centre, or you like to travel to another area of the country, you can join the Centre most convenient for you.

What does your Centre o er you?

The most popular Centre activities are rallies. Held over a weekend or longer, you can participate as much or as little as you like. Maybe take advantage of the local countryside, visit a stately home or local attraction, join in a sporting activity or simply relax; the choice is yours.

The rallies on o er for 2023 are listed on the following pages; these details may change and new rallies will be added throughout the year. For more details and the most up-to-date information visit www.camc.com/centres

Bring the family along!

Centre rallies are the perfect opportunity for a family break and a great way for kids (and big kids!) to enjoy time with friends new and old.

Some rallies are specifically aimed at families and will have lots of exciting activities planned for the whole family to get involved with, others are built around local events or visits to attractions which make a great family break. Some Centres even encourage younger members to help with organising their own rallies.

Join or Renewing with a Centre

Annual registration is free to all Club members. You can join, renew or check your Centre registration at www.camc.com/centres or call us on 01342 318 813.

Online Search

New rallies are being organised all the time, so keep an eye on the Centre section of our website to see what’s coming up. The online search tool is the best place to stay up to date with the latest additions to the Centre Rallies calendar. Search by date, centre or rally type to find the perfect rally for you and make sure you never miss out.

To find out more, and start searching, visit camc.com/centres

East Hampshire Centre Rally

Photo by Mark He er