Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine – November 2020

NOVEMBER 2020

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT You’ll be spoiled for choice on our seven-site tour of England’s spectacular South-East

CAYTON VILLAGE Find out more about our latest site development

SLEEPING EASY Practical advice on caravan bedrooms

SEASONAL SAVERS Member discounts on winter-themed kit

COMMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL

All designed around you.

presents

The next generation of caravans, motorhomes & campervans NEW FOR 2021.

Your home away from home and every space has its ambition to offer the most for your best holiday experience.

The new generation of our Caravans, Motorhomes and Campervans takes this to a new level, with bigger spaces, new softer, more integrated forms and a special ambiance, offering great living spaces and practical features, complemented by a new selection of textiles and soft furnishing.

Please contact your nearest Adria dealership for more information: www.adria.co.uk/dealer-network XX November 2019

www.adria.co.uk www.camc.com

COMMENT EDITOR

WELCOME

camc.com/enquiries Editorial Editor Gary Martin Deputy Editor John Thynne Assistant Editors Stuart Egan, Stephen Hollis Design Michaela Millar

Postal address Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA Club contact details For comprehensive contact details, see camc.com/contact Membership services and magazine circulation 01342 318813 (calls may be recorded) Site booking (members only)/ UK Club sites advance booking 01342 327490 Cover Caravan 01342 336610 Insurance (Devitts) Car/motorhome 0345 504 0334 Home/contents 0345 504 0335

Gary Martin says: The Club is constantly looking at ways of improving its service to members, whether that be through its contact centre, overseas travel department, financial service operations or, indeed, this magazine.

What you might not realise is that we are continually reinvesting in the sites network – improving existing facilities or, occasionally, purchasing and developing new sites.

Travel Service 01342 316101

The Club is always “looking at ways of

Red Pennant (Overseas Holiday Insurance) 01342 336633 Brochures on Club services 01342 327410 Technical advice 01342 336611

Legal helpline 01275 378728 Advertising enquiries General number 01342 336817 Commercial Manager Ian Lea 01342 336753 ian.lea@camc.com Business Development Manager Jason Clarke 01342 779368 jason.clarke@camc.com Commercial Executive Adam Johnson 01342 336742 adam.johnson@camc.com Production Controller Tara Erroll 01342 779371 tara.erroll@camc.com

NOVEMBER 2020

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

TOURING: SOUTH-EAST ENGLAND SITES AND CLS TESTED: RENAULT KADJAR, COACHMAN ACADIA 830 XCEL, WILDAX SOLARIS XL

Patron: HRH The Prince Philip President: Thomas Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester Chairman: Grenville Chamberlain OBE Director General: Nick Lomas

This month (on pages 10-11), we take a closer look at our new Cayton Village site on the North Yorkshire coast. Following the acquisition of this fantastic plot of land in 2018, we embarked on a major improvement programme, bringing it up to the standard members would expect and building state-of-the-art facilities blocks and reception areas.

CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2020

Digital Advertising Co-ordinator Vicky Powell 01342 779378 victoria.powell@camc.com

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT

COVER IMAGE:

You’ll be spoiled for choice on our seven-site tour of England’s spectacular South-East

www.camc.com

CAYTON VILLAGE Find out more about our latest site development PASS p1 Cover balloons.indd 1

www.camc.com

”

improving its service

Club Magazine editorial 01342 336640

We have also used the opportunity to introduce alternative accommodation options, such as glamping pods and cabins (some universally accessible), allowing members and their friends to enjoy a different holiday experience. We hope you find the article interesting and welcome your feedback.

Elsewhere in this magazine, there is plenty to inspire future breaks, including a seven-site holiday in Sussex and Kent (pages 24-33), a first look at the new Snowdonia 360 route (p50-52), and our incredible new overseas tour of Sri Lanka (p42).

Enjoy the issue!

SLEEPING EASY Practical advice on caravan bedrooms

Balloons over Leeds Castle (nagelestock.com / Alamy)

SEASONAL SAVERS Member discounts on winter-themed kit 09/10/2020 10:58

November 2020 3

CONTENTS

24

PLEASE

RECYCLE RESPONSIBLY Your magazine is now delivered in a recyclable paper wrap

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NOVEMBER 2020

TOURING

SPECIALS

24 UK SITES

Andrew Ditton discovers a perfect combination of coast, culture and countryside in South-East England 35 DIRECTORY UPDATES

Updates to your Sites Directory & Handbook 38 FOREIGN TOURING

Luxembourg may be relatively small but it has plenty to offer 66 ACTIVITY BREAKS

Jonathan Manning enjoys a relaxing walk along the banks of the Thames

10 CLUB MATTERS

How the Club has developed fantastic Cayton Village 50 SNOWDONIA 360

We take a look at a new touring route in North Wales 60 FAMILY FOCUS

Tips to make a family walk fun for everyone 70 CYCLE ROUTE

Jonathan Manning rides in England’s smallest county

TESTS 72 CAR

Renault Kadjar 76 CARAVAN Coachman

Acadia 830 Xcel 80 MOTORHOME

WildAx Solaris XL

NEWS 12

18

42

HEADLINES Club and industry updates SITES The latest from around the network OVERSEAS Plan your worldwide and European breaks

4 November 2020

REGULARS 7

DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW Nick Lomas highlights the joys of touring in autumn and winter 8 YOUR PHOTOS

The best photos from your touring adventures 23 THE CAMPERVAN COOK

Martin Dorey uses a Halloween pumpkin to make a warming soup 46 COUNTRY MATTERS

David Chapman is mesmerised by an exotic bird that adds a splash of colour to the countryside 54 MEMBER OFFERS

Special deals on various products 56 LETTERS

Your comments and views

64 PRACTICAL

Advice to make sure you get a good nights sleep on tour 84 ASK YOUR CLUB

What you need to consider when purchasing an electric bike 86 PRODUCT SHOWCASE

A selection of fleeces to keep you warm in the cooler months 88 CROSSWORD

A chance to win great prizes 91 PUZZLES

Brain-twisting challenges 96 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

To advertise, call 01342 336817 106 TAIL LIGHTS

The weird, wacky and wonderful world of touring

46

xx www.camc.com

co.uk 30897

Get a Lift

Get a Lift

Get a LiftGet Carry That LoadCarry Carry a LiftThat Load That LoadOn the Level On the Level On the Level

Carry That Load

Carry That Load

In the Picture

In the picture

www.aphiam.co.uk www.aphiam.co.uk Tel: 01782 330897

Tel: 01782 330897

In the picture

On the Pull

Distinctive, quality products designed to enhance your motorhome experience.

Distinctive, quality products designed to enhance your

motorhome experience.

• Electric Bike Lifts Distinctive, quality products designed to enhance your motorhome experience.

??

Electric Bike Lifts In the picture On•the Level

• Scooter/Bike Carriers • Electric Bike Lifts • Hydraulic Levelling • Scooter/Bike Carriers • Satellite TV • Hydraulic Levelling • Towbars In the picture • Satellite TV • Semi Air Suspension And much more. • Towbars • Semi Air Suspension Contact your local agent or Aphiam direct for more details And much more.

• Scooter/Bike Carriers • Hydraulic Levelling • Satellite TV • Towbars • Semi Air Suspension and much more...

Riding On Air Contact your local agent or Aphiam direct for more details

www.aphiam.co.uk Tel: 01782 330897

Contact your local agent or Aphiam direct for more details: On the Pull

Riding On Air Onyour the Pull esigned to enhance yourproducts Distinctive, quality designed to enhance motorhome experience.

www.aphiam.co.uk

On the Pull

Tel: 01782 330897 March 2020 X

Ri

The Great British Holiday Super Deals L A T E S T

MIKE HODGES 07939 033 974

• Virtual Vehicle Tours Available • 57 Service Centres Nationwide – For Total Peace of Mind

C A R A V A N

O F F E R S

CARAVANS

RRP

OUR PRICE

SAVING

CELEBRATE SQEB

£26,276

£24,590

£1,686

CELEBRATION 865

£26,790

£25,200

£1,590

CELEBRATION 880

£26,990

£25,400

£1,590

ECCLES X865

£26,710

£24,050

£2,660

CHALLENGER 480

£22,465

£20,250

£2,215

CHALLENGER X865

£26,710

£24,050

£2,660

ELEGANCE 565

£30,225

£26,750

£3,475

ELEGANCE GRANDE 835

£35,450

£31,700

£3,750

ELEGANCE GRANDE 850

£35,450

£31,700

£3,750

mike@glossopcaravans.co.uk

EDDIE COLLINS 07956 970 383

ec1@glossopcaravans.co.uk

Telephone: 01457 868011

www.glossopcaravans.co.uk XX November 2019

Images shown are some of the models listed above.

CALL US 24/7, WE’RE WAITING TO HELP YOU!

www.camc.com

COMMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL

OPINION Nick Lomas says:

camc.com/enquiries This magazine is also available as a page turner on the Club website and an app free of charge for members.

For non-members who download the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine app, each issue costs £2.29 (Google Play) or £2.99 (App Store).

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.

351,884

Circulation: Jan-Dec 2019

Printing by Walstead Bicester

www.camc.com

I love the summer months, but there’s no denying that some things are simply better in autumn: walking through crunchy leaves, seeing nature’s amazing palette of colours changing to red and gold and enjoying hot drinks while sitting outside in the cooler air.

Nothing beats a brisk walk on a coastal path at this time of the year – you can taste the salty air, feel the wind in your hair and listen to the sound of waves crashing in the background. And a walk to a cosy pub for lunch is always a winner.

“

We know many of you want to continue touring into autumn and beyond

”

We know many of you want to continue touring into autumn and beyond this year, and I really encourage those members who’ve never tried it before to give it a go.

We’ve got so many Club campsites to choose from, whether you want a weekend city break, a bracing paddle in the sea or a week of walking and cycling.

What’s more, we’ve made sure that more sites in popular regions – such as New Forest and Norfolk Broads – stay open until the new year, allowing you to extend your touring holiday season .

With more than 55 Club and Affiliated sites open all year, and a further 18 open from now until the new year, now’s the time to start planning your autumn (and winter) adventures.

Modern motorhomes and caravans have double glazing, central heating and quality insulation (in many cases caravans are fitted out to the highest, Grade 3,

standard, which means you should stay warm in even the coldest UK weather). If you’re sceptical I do understand, but it is possible to stay warm during chillier conditions – I’ve even slept in modern vehicles within the Arctic Circle! See camc.com/wintertips for lots of advice.

We have many new members who are discovering the joys of touring holidays – a warm welcome to you if you’ve joined recently. Our sites are usually quieter during the autumn and winter months so now is the ideal time to get started. Our community is very friendly and welcoming, so if you have any questions while you’re on a campsite or need advice, there will always be someone there to help.

Please don’t forget to keep an eye on camc.com/lateavailability. There’s a perfect pitch waiting for you, so put on your favourite jumper, a warm scarf and have a great holiday.

Note: As this issue went to press, new coronavirus measures were being put in place in certain parts of the country.

Please follow UK Government (gov.uk) and local government guidelines at all times and keep an eye on our website (camc.com) for booking updates.

Above all, please stay safe.

November 2020 7

SPECIAL MEMBER PICTURES

YOUR PHOTOS

Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera

PAWS FOR A PICTURE Lea enjoying the view from Castle Crag during our recent stay at Borrowdale Club site. The walks direct from the site are amazing, including this one, the smallest of the Wainwrights.

Alison Charlesworth Lake District

WHEREVER I LAY MY HAT

Fife

Taken at the glorious Mewslade View CL, on the Gower Peninsula.

A misty start that developed into a glorious sunny day. The views, walks and weather were perfect.

Debs Stanley

WHAT GOES UP...

Charlotte and her dad on the way up to the top of the slope at Pembrey Ski and Activity Centre for a toboggan ride.

Nearest Club site: Pembrey Country Park Jamie Isaac-Holland Carmarthenshire

Gower

SEEING RED On our last two nights in Scotland we stayed on the edge of Tentsmuir Forest. We walked over nine miles into the forest from the campsite and were rewarded with seeing this lovely red squirrel.

Nearest Club site: Balbirnie Park Paul and Sarah Scott 8 November 2020

www.camc.com

Highlands

NEW DAWN

Sunrise on Brora beach, near Brora Club site, in September.

Andy Pattenden

FREE PRIZE DRAW

Send us a photo and you will automatically be entered into a free monthly draw, giving you the chance to win some fantastic prizes! See camc. com/competitions for full prize draw terms and conditions

MOMENT OF REFLECTION

Lake District

Taken on an early-morning run at the north of Coniston Water.

We were staying at Coniston Park Coppice... great site.

Will Vipond

SKYE’S THE LIMIT Taken on Skye, the most amazing boat trip to see sea eagles whilst on holiday.

Nearest Club site: Morvich Martha Gratton

AIR TIME

The Longleat Estate during 2019’s Sky Safari... brings back memories of a fantastic weekend enjoying watching these beautiful balloons.

Louisa Trafford

Inner Hebrides

Want to see your photo in a future issue? Send your images to camc. com/inspiring adventures or tag us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #inspiring adventures

Wiltshire

www.camc.com

November 2020 9

SPECIAL CLUB MATTERS

Grand design Following the acquisition of the Cayton Village site in 2018, we embarked on a major redevelopment, creating a dream holiday venue for all

W

n 207 touring pitches (mostly hardstanding) n Two new, high quality central washroom facility buildings, an enclosed playground and a multi-use games area* n Six service points, two drive-over motorvan waste points and electric vehicle charging points

Club staff member Natasha Shane

hen the Club purchased the Cayton Village site near Scarborough in North Yorkshire, it was presented with a challenge.

We already knew we had a fantastic location, but we needed to update it so it met the standards that our members expected, and develop it so that it appealed to the widest possible range of touring enthusiasts. Well, we think we have achieved our goal, creating a ‘site of the future’ that will appeal to caravanners, motorhomers, campervanners, tent campers and glamping fans in equal measure.

We are delighted to announce that the site is open for bookings until 3 January 2021 (as we went to press, all facilities were expected to be open from 17 October) – so get in early and experience it for yourself. Here are some of the features you can expect to find...

n A new welcome desk (reception) and shop n A designated dog walking area n A mixed area for camping and campervans n An outdoor social space with provision for mobile catering units – somewhere to relax and enjoy the site outside your vehicle.*

To find out more visit

camc.com/cayton or experiencefreedom.co.uk

EXPERIENCE FREEDOM Under our ‘Experience Freedom’ banner, we have installed a range of alternative accommodation at Cayton Village. Where and when circumstances allow, this means you can potentially enjoy a shared holiday with friends and family members who do not own a touring vehicle. Club members and 10 November 2020

their loved ones receive a 10% discount on Experience Freedom bookings –see experiencefreedom.co.uk to find out more.

You can book the following at Cayton Village: n Glamping pods (including a universally accessible option)

n Glamping cabins, (including a universally accessible cabin with orthopaedic mattresses, wet room, low-level counters and 1.5m turning circles). n Tent pitches – pitch up under the stars from just £17 per night** www.camc.com

207 The number of touring pitches available at the site

1

The site is just one mile from the nearest beach

Pictures taken during various stages of development in 2020

12

The number of glamping units at Cayton Village

WHY STAY HERE?

You might just want to relax on site – but if you fancy venturing further afield, there are loads of attractions nearby. Cayton Bay, with its dog-friendly beach, is less than a mile away, while the well-known resorts of Scarborough and Filey are within easy driving distance.

Walkers will be in their element, with the North York Moors National Park on the doorstep, while literature fans can head for Whitby, the inspiration for parts of Bram Stoker’s Dracula story.

Afterwards why not take a trip aboard a steam train on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway?

We’ll leave it to you to decide whether there is such a thing as ‘the perfect site’ – but we think Cayton Village comes pretty close. Why not book a stay and find out for yourself? *Please check with site staff re potential restrictions ** Based on pitch plus one adult in March 2021. See experiencefreedom.co.uk for terms and conditions

www.camc.com

Seaside towns like Whitby are within reach.

Photo taken by Ian Jefferson

November 2020 11

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

Headlines The latest stories from the touring world

The latest information about Club sites and CLs can be seen at camc.com

Fantastic new CLs join network The Field Studies Council (FSC) is pleased to welcome Caravan and Motorhome Club members to newly opened Certificated Locations (CLs) at two wonderful places: FSC Preston Montford in Shropshire and FSC Castle Head in Cumbria.

FSC Preston Montford is a stunning site on the banks of the River Severn, just outside the historic town of Shrewsbury. Visitors could visit the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, enjoy historic Ironbridge or explore eastern Wales.

FSC Castle Head is situated close to Morecambe Bay and the edge of the Lake District National Park, so

there are plenty of fantastic places to see within easy reach.

Both sites have beautiful countryside views and plenty of space. The two CLs offer visitors EHU and Wi-Fi, while prices start from £16 per night.

The FSC is an environmental charity so members are asked to only use green fluid in the chemical emptying points on the CLs. The charity offers a wide range of outdoor-based courses relating to natural history, walking, photography, arts and wellbeing.

For more information please visit field-studies-council.org.

The Club hopes to announce more CLs at FSC locations in the future.

n The Club’s Certificated Location Department has been working hard to ensure that we have new CLs in a number of exciting places across the UK. In the year to September 2020, 74 new locations had been added to the network. For the latest updates please see p35-36.

FSC Castle Head (please note that this is the wider FSC site and the CL itself is not shown)

JOIN THE CLUB ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Members Judith and Robin Dalby enjoying afternoon tea during the Big Little Tea-Time Festival

12 November 2020

With the October NEC show (and its annual ‘Club Day’) cancelled this year, we decided to hold a virtual ‘Club Week’ on our social media channels from 12-16 October. Hosted by TV presenter, Club member and campervanner Matt Allwright, it included daily video discussions on Facebook on Club products and services, with viewers invited to submit questions during the playback.

Matt also spoke to the Club’s Director General, Nick Lomas, about 2020 and plans for 2021.

Our social media team has been busy in recent months, running a series of virtual events such as the Big Little Tent,

Tea-Time, National and Welcome festivals, which collectively have been shortlisted for three national marketing awards.

The team has also been hosting live quiz nights and an ongoing series of ‘Ask the Expert’ interviews – which feature Club staff answering questions and discussing a range of subjects relevant to members. Both of these have been popular and are now regular monthly features. If you have missed them you can catch up on the Club’s Facebook page and YouTube channel (see youtube.com/ user/thecaravanclub).

Don’t miss out... follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @candmclub. www.camc.com

THANKS FOR YOUR FEEDBACK We would like to thank you for giving feedback to the Club during 2020, whether that has been via surveys, social media, TrustPilot or the Contact Centre. In such an unusual and challenging year for everyone, it has been important to hear your views and ideas to help steer our activities in the right direction.

In May over 3,500 of you told us about your future travel intentions and expectations, which helped guide our re-opening plans and Covid-Secure safety measures at UK Club campsites. Since July, 22,000 visitors to UK Club campsites have told us how they’ve found the experience (pretty good overall!) and have offered suggestions for refining our Covid-Secure procedures.

In August 4,500 members took part in a Summer Survey. Overall, the results showed that members felt the Club was doing a good job, offering support during an unusual period of time, although we know that there’s always room for improvement.

Most respondents were hoping to stay at a UK Club campsite and/or Certificated Location at some point in 2020, while overseas travel plans were focused on 2021.

Our newest members have told us about their first impressions of the Club, and over 3,000 members have rated the Club on the consumer review website TrustPilot, with many providing positive testimonials. Our score of 4.2 (out of 5) makes us the top-rated touring club in the UK! Please carry on sharing your thoughts with us and look out for email invitations to future surveys. www.camc.com

WEBSITE UPDATES

BLENHEIM

pop-up a success Many thanks to those of you who have already stayed at our pop-up site at Blenheim Palace.

The site is open until 1 November, so if you’re quick you might secure one of the remaining pitches...

and remember that members receive a 30% discount on Blenheim Palace admission tickets and a 20% discount at the palace gift shop.

Terms and conditions apply – see camc.com/what’s-on.

We are building an archive of caravan, motorhome and campervan reviews that have appeared in the magazine, so that you can quickly access a range of articles by our expert testers when researching your next vehicle. You can read these and watch accompanying videos at camc.com/outfitreviews.

In addition, remember that you can see late availability of pitches at Club sites by visiting camc.com/ lateavailability.

See new models at Travelworld like this Hymer B-Class Masterline T 780

TRAVELWORLD SHOWCASES

BEAULIEU

SCOOPS AWARD Beaulieu, the Hampshire-based visitor attraction, has won a prestigious TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award.

These awards are given out by travel review website TripAdvisor each year and are based on the scores and reviews provided by its users – so clearly a great many visitors have enjoyed their days out in the New Forest. If you would like to visit Beaulieu – home to the Club’s own fascinating collection – the nearest Club sites are Black Knowl and New Forest. Members can also take advantage of our excellent discounts (15% off the price of an advance day ticket or 33% off the ‘on the day’ ticket price*) by visiting camc.com/beaulieu. *Terms and conditions apply.

Erwin Hymer Centre Travelworld in Staffordshire showcased a number of new and exclusive motorhomes at its premises in October and will continue to do so in November. Members interested in viewing new Hymer models (23 October-3 November) and new Niesmann+Bischoff models (9-22 November) can book a sociallydistanced one-hour appointment in advance by emailing events@ motorhomes.co.uk or by calling 01785 878787. More information about the models on display and the location can be found at motorhomes.co.uk.

November 2020 13

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

Coachman

unveils new models Hull-based Coachman Caravans has unveiled a new look for 2021, combining a red tone with elements of the company’s original logo.

Details of a completely new model, to be called Lusso, were not available at the time of going to press, so check coachman.co.uk for announcements. It’s an even more upmarket version of the best-selling 575 transverse island bed/rear washroom layout as already seen in the manufacturer’s Acadia, VIP and Laser line-ups.

Coachman adds three new Xcel models to its Acadia line-up (see our review of the five-berth 830 on p76 of this issue). Meanwhile, there are two new Laser Xcel layouts – 575 (transverse island bed, full-width rear washroom)

and 845 (L-shaped lounge, island bed).

‘Xcel’ denotes that they have extra-wide (ie 8ft) bodies.

There are also revisions to the standard Laser 650, with the island bed switching from transverse to a lengthways setting.

Coachman has also announced that, initially, it has exclusive use of the latest Al-Ko Automatic Adjustment (AAA) premium brake system. In addition, Al-Ko’s ATC (trailer control system) is now standard on every Coachman.

Finally, there are four additions to the Coachman dealership network: White Arches Caravans in Northamptonshire; Sharman Caravans in Suffolk; Adventure Leisure Vehicles in Cumbria; and Salop Leisure in Shropshire.

Nick Harding

Coachman Acadia 830 Xcel

ON THE APP

Lulworth Cove, near Hunters Moon Club site

YOU RECOMMEND… Open All Year sites

(see camc.com/oay for more)

“

We love the area, Grange is picturesque – we recommend a walk down the prom and an ice cream at the cafe at the end.

Meathop Fell Club site

“

”

We met up with our daughters who were camping in tents and the site staff went out of their way to be helpful as they were arriving late after work… The site is in a lovely area. We visited Box Hill and Epsom Downs,

14 November 2020

lovely for dog walking. We will be booking this site again next summer for our family get-together as it’s the best we’ve stayed on.

Alderstead Heath Club site

”

“

This was our first holiday with the dog. Loved the site, very nicely laid out. Perfect spot for getting on the coast be it north or south. Handy dog walking area… Staff were friendly and helpful.

Bridlington Club site

“

”

My first venture in my new motorhome. A super site, immaculate

showers and toilets. Very well run and lovely friendly staff… The local village just a short walk [away] has some great pubs and some very good food.

Castleton Club site

“

This month the app version of the Club magazine includes videos to accompany Nick Harding’s review of the WildAx Solaris XL (p80-82) and Lesley Harris’ test of the Renault Kadjar (p72-74). There’s also an extra page of Tail Lights!

”

Stayed for six nights during the August heatwave, and loved it here. We were pitched on the grass field which gave the benefit of some tree shade in the morning and afternoon. Situation is great, we visited loads of places, with Monkey World and Brownsea Island being particular favourites.

Hunter’s Moon Club site

”

www.camc.com

Bailey reveals new Adamo motorhomes Bristol-based manufacturer Bailey has revealed a new-for-2021 motorhome range, Adamo. With three layouts available, the models are all under 7.5m in length and have an MTPLM of 3,500kg or under.

The Adamo 69-4 (inset) has parallel front lounge seating, double drop-down bed, rear bathroom and end garage.

The Adamo 75-4I features a parallel front lounge, central washroom, rear bedroom with longitudinal double island bed, and end garage. Finally, the Adamo 75-4DL (main picture) includes a central washroom, rear U-shaped lounge with double drop-down bed above and end garage. All three models are four berths with two or four travel seats and central kitchens.

Bailey has also revealed updates to its best-selling Pegasus Grande SE range of caravans as well as limited edition versions of its Phoenix range, styled as ‘Phoenix+’. They have new interior and exterior looks as well as a host of additional design features. For more information please see baileyofbristol.co.uk.

WELLHOUSE offers ‘Freedom’ Campervan converter Wellhouse Leisure has unveiled a Ford Tourneo La Libertà Special Edition, available exclusively with 2.0 TDCi Ford EcoBlue engine. Prices start from £56,620 (6-speed manual) and £58,665 (automatic), with the converter offering a choice of colours and a whole host of other specification options. Wellhouse Leisure has social distancing measures in place for any visitors and can arrange safe delivery of new campers to customers nationwide. In addition, video tours of any vehicle are currently being offered via WhatsApp. For more information please see wellhouseleisure.com. www.camc.com

November 2020 15

NEWS CLUB AND INDUSTRY

After careful consideration we have taken the difficult decision not to hold the National in 2021.

Planning the National takes a huge amount of time and manpower, and all the while we cannot be certain it would not be cancelled, it’s in the best interest of not only the Club, but also members, for us to take this decision now. We know the National is a key date in the diary for many members; rest assured we will be looking at alternative options – including pop-up campsites at popular locations – to bring members together, and we will of course keep you posted on these developments.

We know this will be a disappointment to many of you but the safety of Club members, staff and volunteers is of paramount importance to us and we appreciate your continued support.

16 November 2020

Charles Stirling / Alamy

2021 National

SHOW UPDATES NCC Events has announced the postponement of the 2021 Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show, scheduled to take place from 23-28 February 2021 at the NEC in Birmingham. The organisers say that the decision has been made due to the changing landscape of Government Covid-19 guidelines.

John Lally, CEO of NCC Events, explains: “Whilst the trajectory of the Covid-19 virus is still very much unknown, it is clear that the restrictions – and their impact upon businesses – are likely to be

in place for up to six months. We do not take this action lightly, but at this time we feel that it is the only sensible option to safeguard show partners, exhibitors and our visitors from the financial exposure of a late show cancellation.”

In addition, the Love Touring Expo due to be held at the P&J Live centre near Aberdeen between 4-7 November 2020 has been postponed. This event has been rescheduled for 4-7 February 2021.

See lovetouringexpo.co.uk for more information.

Meanwhile, dates have been confirmed for the Motorhome and Campervan Show at Westpoint, Exeter, which will run from 27-29 November. For show and ticket information please see appletree-exhibitions.co.uk or call 01805 603943.

Please note that all details are subject to change and we would advise members to check that shows are still going ahead before travelling to attend. Please follow official UK Government and local government guidelines at all times.

www.camc.com

£

The UK’s Largest Selection of

First Time Buyer Deals & Savings

Guaranteed Best Part-Exchange

Award-Winning Special Editions

New & Used models

Everyday

Prices

Exclusively for You

YOUR MOTORHOME OR CARAVAN AT ANY ONE OF OUR 13 NATIONWIDE BRANCHES

Buy

BROWSE CHAT LIVE RESERVE

Collect

Service

Freephone Sales Hotline

0800 026 77 77

www.marquisleisure.co.uk

FOR THE LATEST NEWS, EVENTS & OFFERS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

www.camc.com

September 2020 17

NEWS UK SITES

Time for a late break You dont have to put your caravan or motorhome into storage – many of our sites are open all year Summer may be behind us but touring in autumn and winter can be a real delight. And with more than 55 Club and Affiliated sites (along with a multitude of Certificated Locations) open all year, its easy to enjoy the network during the colder seasons, especially as the late availability page on the Club website is updated daily (camc.com/lateavailability).

So why not head to the coast and enjoy a crisp morning walk on a beach (or a paddle in the sea if youre feeling brave!), stay at one of our sites near London and experience the many attractions the capital has to offer, or get close to nature by visiting a glorious national park?

Better still, there are often great deals to take advantage of at our sites during the cooler months, perhaps leaving you with a little extra to enjoy a drink by a roaring fire in a country pub!

SEVEN SITES THAT ARE OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire Delve into the legend of Robin Hood at this Club site which is just 10 miles from Sherwood Forest. Explore the forest on foot or bike, using a network of excellent trails, and visit the magnificent Major Oak (according to folklore it provided shelter for the outlaw and his merry men). The Club site is also set within the National Trust’s Clumber Park, which boasts 3,000 acres of beautiful parkland, heath and woodland as well as a spectacular lake (please note some areas of the park remain closed and booking in advance is advised). This site also offers 50% off midweek bookings (Monday to Thursday) from October to March.

Please note: this site has no mobile phone signal.

Coniston Park Coppice, Cumbria Whether you are looking for an active break or to simply sit back and unwind, Coniston Park Coppice is the perfect destination. Set within the heart of the Lake District, the opportunities for walking or cycling in stunning surroundings are almost 18 November 2020

endless.If getting out on the water is more your thing, the site is just a short walk from a lakeside launching point (you could bring along your own vessel or hire a kayak, canoe, boat or paddleboard).

If you fancy a more relaxed trip on Coniston Water, why not climb aboard the National Trusts popular Steam Yacht Gondola? The 50% midweek discount also applies at this site through to March.

Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire Fancy a frosty, early-morning walk through wonderful countryside? If the answer is yes, then Moreton-in-Marsh Club site is an ideal base thanks to its position on the northern edge of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

There is also an extensive list of picture-postcard villages to explore in close vicinity to the site, from historic Moreton-in-Marsh itself to the achingly pretty Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-theWater. If you fancy a bit more hustle and bustle or the chance to do some Christmas shopping then Cheltenham is also easy to get to by car, bus or train. You can also stay in one of our cosy glamping pods at this site.

Crystal Palace, London Want the best of both worlds? Well you can have it at Crystal Palace Club site, which is perfectly positioned for visits to the bright lights and attractions of London but still manages to offer a tranquil setting in which to just sit back and watch the world go by. It is possible to walk the seven miles into central London (although you might not want to walk back again!) or you can jump on a bus from the stop near the site and travel all the way to Oxford Street. There is plenty to do without venturing into the centre, though, with the neighbouring park offering lots of opportunities to walk, cycle or even go boating on the lake. Nearby Dulwich Village is also a great location for a relaxed afternoon stroll followed by tea and cake.

Henley Four Oaks, Oxfordshire Brush up on your royal history during a stay at the picturesque Henley Four Oaks Club site, which is well placed for visits to both Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace. Windsor Castle – the worlds oldest and largest inhabited palace – has www.camc.com

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Cheddar Gorge

housed 39 monarchs since the 11th century, while you can learn more about the life of Henry VIII at Hampton Court and even go ice skating during the winter months (booking in advance is necessary for both venues)! The town of Henley is also great for a stroll – or you could jump on a boat for a trip along the Thames.

Windsor Castle www.camc.com

Cheddar, Somerset This is another site offering a plethora of options for bracing autumn or winter walks thanks to its location on the edge of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From your pitch it is easy to stroll into Cheddar village and around the gorge – there are sensational views from the top over the surrounding countryside and Cheddar Reservoir. If the weather is not on your side, then a good option is to explore the caves at Cheddar or nearby Wookey Hole, while Englands smallest city, Wells,with its magnificent cathedral, is a short drive away. The seaside resorts of Weston-super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea are also within easy reach along with the cities of Bristol and Bath.

Bridlington, Yorkshire Bridlington Club site boasts 81 all-weather pitches, making it ideal for a winter break. Miles of stunning Yorkshire coastline stretch both north and south from near the site and nature lovers will be in their element. Nearby Flamborough Head is home to one of the most important seabird colonies in

Images Visit Britain

See camc.com for the latest site information and follow official UK Government (gov.uk) as well as local government guidelines at all times.

We also recommend that you check with businesses/attractions that are listed regarding opening dates/restrictions.

Cliffs at Flamborough

Europe (even in winter it attracts species such as snow buntings, waxwings and rough-legged buzzards) while just along the coast is Bempton Cliffs RSPB Reserve. The seaside resorts of Bridlington and Scarborough are within easy reach while, heading inland, the North York Moors National Park and the city of York make for excellent day trips.

November 2020 19

NEWS UK SITES

Keeping grass pitches open longer As we move towards the winter months, we often start to close grass pitches as they become harder to manage in cold, wet weather, and we want to avoid vans getting stuck.

However, with more members than ever seeking to get out and about this autumn and winter, we have been working hard to try and keep pitches open for longer where the weather and

ground conditions prove to be dry enough. Site staff are currently checking surfaces every day, and if they are good enough we are keeping the pitches open for longer.

The late availability page (camc.com/ lateavailability) on our website is the best place to check if you are looking for a last-minute getaway, as grass pitches are being released on a daily basis.

Seasonal storage reminder

As we went to press, in line with regulations set by the Welsh Government, some campsites have closed as they are in areas where a local lockdown exists.

The Club keeps up to date with government regulations and acts accordingly, taking necessary decisions to close a site for the remainder of the season or temporarily. Our team is contacting affected members as required.

Current closures, at the time of going to press, are as follows: n Gowerton (for the remainder of the season) n Lady Margaret’s Park (temporary closure) n Riverside Touring Park AS (temporary closure) n Tredegar House CP (temporary closure) For the latest updates please see camc. com. While you are on the website, we would recommend that you log into the membership portal and check that all of your contact details are up to date.

20 November 2020

Crystal Palace Park

Another year for Crystal Palace

Following discussions between the London Borough of Bromley Council and the Club, we are pleased to report that we have been given an extended lease that will enable us to keep Crystal Palace Club site open until 20 December 2021.

We know London is a very popular destination and we are pleased that members have more time to enjoy one of our most popular and historic sites.

Rod Williams / Alamy

Site closures in Wales

If you are interested in storing your van on one of our seasonal storage sites in 2021, we are still accepting applications sent by post up to Friday 13 November 2020.

Your request will be entered into a ballot and successful applications for a pitch will be confirmed by email from Monday 16 November 2020 or post by Friday 20 November 2020. You can download an application form from camc.com/ storage.

We will also contact relevant members regarding all-year storage renewals for the 2021 season during November.

If you are interested in securing an all-year storage pitch at one of our sites, please get in touch directly with the relevant site. www.camc.com

www.camc.com

July 2020 XX

Tow before they go.

Member Offer

UP TO £1,500 OFF THE KORANDO FREE

TOWBAR FOR CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB MEMBERS†

2 tonne maximum towing capacity‡ Twice class winner in Towcar of the Year 2018/2013 2.2L diesel engine, 400NM torque Year warranty

KORANDO

FROM £19,495 BEFORE SAVING*

Fuel consumption figures in mpg: Combined 37.7 – 42.8. CO2 emissions in g/km: 174 – 198. *Model featured is a Korando 2.2D ELX auto at £26,545 before saving including optional metallic paint, including VAT, delivery charge, Road Fund Licence & first registration charge (ELX no longer in stock). ‡2 tonne maximum towing capacity on diesel models.

Offer available until 31st December 2020 at participating dealers only and can be amended or withdrawn at any time. Terms and Conditions apply. Prices are correct at the time of going to print, but may be modified or changed at any time. For photographic purposes only towing mirrors weren't used. Warranty covers 7 years or 150,000 miles. †Free fixed tow bar offer is available on Korando C255, while stocks last. Offer available to members of over 3 months.

Cook

COLUMN MARTIN DOREY

The Campervan

Writer, cook and campervan owner Martin Dorey continues his gastronomic journeys. This month: making a warming soup from your Halloween pumpkin...

I

t’s pumpkin time! Most of us have enjoyed carving scary faces into them for Halloween – and although I guess there won’t be any trick-ortreating this year, hopefully we can still take a wander to enjoy others’ terrifying artwork.

However, there is one particular frightening fact about this tradition that I’d like you to think about. Around eight million pumpkins go to waste around Halloween every year. Why? Because people don’t do anything with the flesh of this lovely squash, which is scandalous!

Now’s our chance to put things right with a delicious, spicy soup that’s really easy to make and will warm you up after a chilly evening walk.

Even if you have missed Halloween, or simply don’t care for it, this is a delicious recipe for the colder months in general.

It’s also simple to make in your motorhome or caravan – so why not try cooking it up somewhere fitting, like Whitby (one of the inspirational locations for Bram Stoker’s Dracula) in Yorkshire or Berry Pomeroy Castle in Devon (said to be one of Britain’s most CUT OUT haunted). There are plenty of Club sites or

CLs within easy reach of both (please check camc.com for site opening information as well as national (gov.uk) and local travel restrictions before planning any visit).

So get practising your carving skills and remember that one small pumpkin can make enough soup for four people.

AND KEEP

RECIPES RECIPE NO. 34

Spicy pumpkin soup SERVES FOUR

INGREDIENTS

THE COOK RECOMMENDS...

Ditching the plastic skeletons and nylon costumes in favour of one, nicely carved pumpkin. They are cheap to buy and the flesh is lovely.

FOR AFTERS

What about a toffee apple? These traditional treats are easy to make and there are plenty of tasty recipes online.

1 small pumpkin 1 red onion, diced 50g butter 1 star anise r 1 tsp ground ginge oil le tab ge ve tsp 1 be 1 vegetable stock cu 1 clove garlic cream A dollop of soured s ke fla illi ch A pinch of ves (to garnish) A few coriander lea

METHOD

MEMBER SINCE...

Campervanner Martin Dorey joined the Club in 2016

www.camc.com

oil large pan. Add the Melt the butter in a ger, gin d un gro the d and diced onion. Ad clove. Meanwhile, chilli flakes and garlic a quarter of stock d an t make about a pin . Add d an the stock cube using boiling water the off top the t stock. Cu the star anise to the ape out scr d an s ed se the pumpkin, remove as you can. When the as much of the flesh to d the pumpkin flesh ad d ne fte onion has so onions the re su ke ma to ll the pan and mix we flesh. Cook on a and spices cover the

d enough few minutes then ad medium heat for a kin and mp the flesh of the pu stock to just cover n from pa the ve mo Re . nutes ak simmer for 10 -15 mi bre to y ntl ge the contents the heat and mash ssible. This po as kin mp pu down as much of the to make tic soup. If you want will make a really rus ve a sie a o int ur the mixture a smooth soup, po press the d an wl bo g xin mi a little at a time over a ve with the back of flesh through the sie has come out. uid liq the all til un wooden spoon p of d serve with a dollo Season to taste an er to garnish. nd ria co d an am soured cre

November 2020 23

TOURING UK SITES

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

See camc.com for the latest site information and follow official UK Government (gov.uk) as well as local government guidelines at all times. We also recommend that you check with businesses/ attractions that are listed regarding opening dates/ restrictions. The Great Savings Guide booklet was produced prior to the coronavirus pandemic. It was correct at the time of publication but is now subject to change. For more information see caravanclub. co.uk/membership/great-savings-guide.

24 May 2020

www.camc.com

“

Our tour begins in West Sussex and ambles its way slowly and gently to east Kent The iconic Seven Sisters

�

Andrew Ditton discovers that the south-eastern corner of England offers the perfect combination of coast, culture and countryside

www.camc.com

Visit Britian

Southern comfort May 2020 25

1

Rowan Park Club site

Full-facility Club site offering plenty of firm grass pitches and hardstandings. Easy access directly off the main road.

Pitches: 79 Tent camping available

Visit Britain/Pete Seaward

TOURING UK SITES

The maze at Leeds Castle

Site view “Our convenient location directly off the main road and opposite a retail park makes this site a very popular choice with new members trying out their outfit for the first time.”

Rob and Tina Wickins

Food & drink The Fox Inn, Waterloo Road, Bognor Regis PO22 7EH Contact: thefoxfelpham.co.uk, 01243 865308

Culture Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley BN18 9LT Contact: amberleymuseum. co.uk, 01798 831370 Member offer available: camc.com/ GREAT greatsavingsguide SAVINGS GUIDE

Outdoor fun RSPB Pagham Harbour Local Nature Reserve, Selsey Road, Chichester PO20 7NE Contact: rspb.org.uk, 01243 641508

For the family South Downs Planetarium and Science Centre, Kingsham Farm, Kingsham Road, Chichester PO19 8RP Contact: southdowns.org.uk, 01243 774400

26 November 2020

T

here is something quite magical and calming about the combination of sunshine and the seaside in the south-east of England – and it creates a discernible feel-good factor. Colourful pebbles on the beach, handsome sandcastles, bright beach huts, ice cream emporiums, gift shops and vintage boutiques give the area a timeless, retro feel that is increasingly appealing to people looking to recreate simple, enjoyable holidays of yore. No wonder the seaside resorts are enjoying a renaissance… and long may it continue.

Our tour begins in West Sussex and ambles its way slowly and gently to east Kent, taking in much of the coastline but also popping inland

on occasion to enjoy some quintessentially English villages, gardens and culture.

The dignified resort of Bognor Regis is our first port of call, with a stay at the superconvenient Rowan Park Club site. Access directly off the main road will subdue the anxiety of members with larger outfits, and the proximity of a retail park just across the road means you don’t need to move the motorhome every time you need a loaf of bread. Of course, that ease of access comes with the minor penalty of some road noise, but the mature trees and bushes around the site do a sterling job of filtering much of it out.

Dog owners love this site: right next door is a delightful, canine-friendly nature reserve. It took me and my faithful friend almost an hour to walk the perimeter of Bersted Brooks, www.camc.com

2

Upper Chancton Farm Certificated Location

A friendly, relaxed CL on a working farm with pitches that command stunning views. No EHU or facility block.

Contact: 01903 892119 Sites Directory & Handbook p474

Owner view

ge Tony Ga

“Our CL appeals to all, especially new caravanners, as there is no tricky manoeuvring involved on site. We’re central for many towns and pretty villages in the South Downs.”

Elaine Eales

Neil Baker / Alamy

Culture

www.camc.com

Nearby Chichester Cathedral is, by comparison to many other English cathedrals, small but beautifully formed.

Founded in 1075, it is noteworthy on account of its ‘double aisle’ layout, but if you’re anything like me you’ll be more impressed by the stunning gardens that surround it, as well as the beautiful stained glass windows within.

Entry is by donation (needed more than ever), and there’s an accessible entrance for wheelchair users. Overall, the cathedral offers serenity and peace in a busy and bustling world. It really is a wonderful place.

Fans of hit television series The Repair Shop should make a beeline for the Weald & Downland Living Museum. This (dog-friendly) open air collection contains more than

Arundel Castle & Gardens, Arundel BN18 9AB Contact: arundelcastle.org, 01903 882173

Tony Gage

Peter Cripps

/ Alamy

Above: Chichester Cathedral window From left: lovely Lewes; scenic treasures abound

enjoying the recently planted trees that are well on their way to establishing mature woodland on the site.

Many shorter walks are also available.

Another super outing is a stroll along Bognor’s promenade, a couple of miles from the site. Street parking on the front is payable during the day (60p per hour) but free during the evenings, and if you head to the west of the town you’ll find the dog-friendly beach. Further afield, the charming coastal resorts of Pagham and Bosham demand relaxed exploration, and are ideal to while away balmy summer evenings with an ice cream and a stroll.

Food & drink The Fountain Inn, Ashurst, Steyning BN44 3AP Contact: fountainashurst.pub, 01403 710219

Outdoor fun Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve, Pulborough RH20 2ES Contact: sussexwildlifetrust. org.uk

For the family Arundel Lido (check for 2021 opening times), Queen St, Arundel BN18 9JG Contact: arundel-lido.com, 01903 884772

November 2020 27

TOURING UK SITES

SS R LE

R FO

TOU

FROM

3

£16

Broomfield Farm Club site

Peaceful, wooded site offering grass and hardstanding pitches in open and secluded areas. No toilet block… but there is a boules pitch!

Pitches: 42

Staff view “We are seeing far more youngsters on site now than we did before. An increasing number of families are realising the importance of simple pleasures and getting away from it all.”

Phil and Julie Woolmington

Food & drink Hartfields Cafe, 71 High St, Uckfield TN22 1AP Contact: hartfields.co.uk, 01825 508151

Culture Lewes Flea Market, 14A Market St, Lewes BN27 2NB Contact: flea-markets.co.uk, 01273 480328

Outdoor fun Arlington Reservoir, Berwick, Nr Polegate BN26 6TF Contact: corporate. southeastwater.co.uk

For the family Paradise Park, Avis Road, Newhaven BN9 0DH Contact: paradisepark. co.uk, 01273 512123 Member offer available: camc.com/ greatsavingsguide

GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE

Blackberry Farm Park, Whitesmith, Lewes BN8 6JD Contact: blackberry-farm.co.uk, 01825 87291

28 November 2020

50 buildings, some of which are more than 1,000 years old. “One of our members was thrilled to actually meet Jay from the TV show during her visit,” Rowan Park’s site manager informed me, but do be aware that the barn used for filming is off-limits to visitors.

If you fancy pitching up somewhere a little less formal, try Upper Chancton Farm Certificated Location (CL), to the north-east of Bognor Regis (and directly north of Worthing).

Set on a working farm and affording delightful views, this is an ideal spot for new caravanners – there’s a huge amount of space on offer, negating any need for difficult manoeuvres

when pitching. Open from Easter to October, Club members rave about the friendly welcome and the relaxing, back-to-basics experience.

MEMORY LANE

Slightly less easy to access than Upper Chancton Farm – but extremely rewarding once you get there – is the utterly delightful Broomfield Farm Club site near East Hoathly and Lewes, the county town of East Sussex.

For me, this was a trip down memory lane, as my parents used to bring my family here in the early 1970s. Despite modern upgrades such as EHUs and a healthy sprinkling of www.camc.com

Main image: the magnificent De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill

4

The Pondarosa Certificated Location

Well-cared-for CL that offers grass and hardstanding pitches and 16A EHUs. The resident horses and donkey next door are popular with visitors.

Contact: 07885 538347 Sites Directory & Handbook p467

www.camc.com

Owner view “We welcome a wide spectrum of members here, from young families to retired folk. Some come for the beach, others the history, and others to relax and enjoy the countryside.”

Mark and Tracy Cruttenden

Food & drink The White Hart Inn, The Green, Catsfield, Battle TN33 9DJ Contact: whitehartcatsfield.co.uk, 01424 892650

Culture Battle Abbey, High Street, Battle TN33 0AE Contact: english-heritage.org.uk

Visit Britain

Once sufficiently decompressed, there are a couple of pleasant walks you can enjoy from the site – ask the site staff for a print-out. A 40-minute stroll takes you into the charming village of East where you can reward BOOKING INFO Hoathly, yourself with a pint at the Kings For the latest details and Head or a slice of something opening information for all delicious with a cup of tea at our sites, please see Muffins Cafe. The second walk from the site takes about two hours and camc.com provides a sublime taste of what the South Downs can offer. hardstanding pitches, the site has If you prefer two wheels to two feet, it’s a lost none of the simple, rural charm I four-mile ride to Horam, where you can pick up remember from my childhood. It made my the Cuckoo Trail. This family-friendly route heart swell to see 21st-century toddlers follows a former railway line; you can ride (or enjoying the same simple pleasures that I walk) as far south as Eastbourne on the coast if enjoyed nearly 50 years ago. the fancy takes you.

What delighted me most of all, though, Heading further afield means taking the was the absence of noise – Broomfield Farm car or motorhome off site or walking to East was the quietest place I’d been since leaving Hoathly to catch a bus. The surrounding area my home in Scotland to go on this trip. is rich in culture, from castles at Lewes and There was just the gentle rustle of leaves in Herstmonceux to Rudyard Kipling’s the breeze and a background of birdsong. residence – Bateman’s – at Burwash, which When you stay here you can feel the stress was bequeathed to the National Trust by simply melting away.

Kipling’s widow upon her death in 1939.

Gordon Bell / Alamy

Eric Duvet / Alamy

David Gee / Alamy

Right, from top: Holy Trinity church, Bosham; Batemans – the former home of Rudyard Kipling

Outdoor fun Combe Valley Countryside Park, Bexhill TN38 8AY Contact: combevalley countrysidepark.com

For the family Knockhatch Adventure Park, Hailsham BN27 3GD Contact: knockhatch.com, GREAT SAVINGS 01323 440251 GUIDE Member offer available: camc.com/greatsavingsguide

November 2020 29

TOURING UK SITES

5

Bearsted Club site

An intimate, full-facility site close to Maidstone that offers plenty of space for everyone with a choice of pitch types. Easy access straight off a main road.

Pitches: 66

Staff view “We welcome two kinds of visitor to the site: families and couples who base themselves here for a holiday in Kent, and those who find the site a convenient stopover thanks to its superb location.”

Garry and Sarah Walton

Food & drink The Potting Shed, Sutton Road, Langley ME17 3LZ Contact: elitepubs.com, 01622 862112

Culture Maidstone Museum, St Faith’s St, Maidstone ME14 1LH Contact: museum.maidstone. gov.uk, 01622 602169

Outdoor fun Mote Park Watersports Centre, Mote Park, Maidstone ME15 7SX Contact: moteparkwatersports. com, 07595 539555

For the family Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone ME14 3AU Contact: kentlife.org.uk, 01622 763936

30 November 2020

As ever, call or check the website before heading off to see what’s available and to book a timed entry ticket.

DAFFODIL BONANZA

Leaving Broomfield Farm is a wrench, but arriving at the immaculate Pondarosa CL to the north of Bexhill-on-Sea is compensation.

“I’ve planted over ten hundredweight of daffodil bulbs along the drive!” says the owner, Mark.

“When members arrive in the spring they will be greeted by a fairytale scene.”

You can tell straight away that Mark and his wife Tracy care passionately about their CL and the well-being of the members who stay there. The area is popular with history buffs, and the site of the Battle of Hastings lies a short drive from the CL. Fans of history a little more ‘mid-century modern’ will love nearby Bexhill-on-Sea thanks to its eclectic mix of vintage and retro shops, not to mention

the stunning modernist De La Warr Pavilion.

It’s an elegant seaside town of which I never tire, and is a tad more relaxed than its near neighbour, Hastings.

After another lungful of sea air, it’s time to zig zag back inland to Bearsted Club site near Maidstone. Ease of access from the nearby M20 motorway makes this a popular site for stopovers, but as the closest Club site to all that north Kent and the River Medway can offer, it makes for a great place to base yourself for a longer stay.

The most obvious attraction is nearby Leeds Castle. Known as ‘The Loveliest Castle in the World’, it’s a 30-minute walk from site, or a few minutes if you want to use the car park. Most of the attractions are outside, from the stunning view of the castle itself to immaculate gardens, falconry displays, a bird of prey centre, and adventure golf. Curiously, the castle plays host to a dog collar museum, www.camc.com

Geoffrey Deadman / Alamy

6

Hamilton Farm Airfield Certificated Location

Delightful adults-only rural retreat offering grass or hardstanding pitches near unfenced lakes and ponds, adjacent to a private airstrip.

EHUs and facility block available.

Contact: 01233 720829 Sites Directory & Handbook p366

Owner view “We are motorhomers ourselves and wanted to share our beautiful area with fellow members. We’ve created the kind of CL we would like to stay at.”

Richard Thomas

Main image: Pagham village and beach, near Chichester

www.camc.com

Culture Godinton House and Gardens, Godinton Lane, Ashford TN23 3BP Contact: godintonhouse.co.uk, 01233 643854

Tony Gage

Monica Wells / Alamy Moon Juice / Alamy

yet dogs (except service dogs) are not permitted in the castle grounds.

If you have a dog (or even if you don’t), then a 10-minute walk from site takes you and your pooch to a rather beautiful 26 acres of woodland and meadowland managed by the Bearsted Woodland Trust. It’s a truly lovely place to while away an hour and admire the artwork and exhibits that are peppered throughout the meadow area.

A short hop down the M20 takes us beyond the town of Ashford to what could be described as a ‘Destination CL.’ There is so much to keep you occupied at and around Hamilton Farm Airfield and CL that you might find you don’t need to take the car off site, especially if fishing is your bag. Carp, tench, bream, rudd and roach populate the various ponds and lakes on this 75-acre slice of rural heaven, and fishing is free to members staying on site.

Outdoor fun Royal Military Canal Path (between Hythe in Kent and Cliff End in East Sussex)

Steve Hawkins Photography / Alamy

Right from top: Antony Gormley figure, Folkestone; a dog enjoys the sea at Folkestone; Bognor Regis

Food & drink The White Horse, Ruckinge Rd, Bilsington TN25 7JX Contact: thewhitehorsebilsington.co.uk, 01233 721487

For the family South of England Rare Breeds Centre, Woodchurch, Ashford TN26 3RJ Contact: rarebreeds.org.uk, 01233 861493

November 2020 31

Cycling | Chalk and Channel Way Covering 8.8 miles, this mostly traffic-free route joins the port towns of Dover and Folkestone and passes over the iconic white cliffs.

Information: sustrans.org.uk

“

Folkestone has enjoyed a renaissance

FOLKE TALES

Following Hamilton Farm, Black Horse Farm Club site near Folkestone had a lot to live up to – and it rose to the challenge admirably.

Motorhoming members in particular love this site; across the road you’ll find a friendly and well-stocked village store, and next to that an equally friendly pub that serves great food. To say that The Black Horse Inn is dog-friendly is

Samphire Hoe an understatement – they even have a food menu for dogs! Alternatively you can grab a take-away to eat back at the van.

From the site, there is a lovely walk that takes in nearby Reinden Wood (accessible to all in the drier months, muddy in the winter), but stick to the path and observe the signs as military training takes place on occasion.

Catch the local bus – which leaves from right outside the site every 20 minutes during the day – if you’d like to venture into the charming town of Folkestone or the cosmopolitan city of Canterbury.

Folkestone has enjoyed a renaissance during the past few years, thanks to the redevelopment of the area behind the harbour, which is now known as the Creative Quarter (creativefolkestone.org.uk). I enjoyed wandering its cobbled streets, discovering the art, and meeting the colourful people who frequent and work in the area… but most important of all I got to sample the fare of one of the cosy independent cafes. Whether your

Illustration: Louise Turpin

”

I particularly enjoyed the dog walking areas, including an off-lead area, although I did not partake in what owner Richard calls ‘The Foot Fish Challenge’. This involves heading off down to the stunningly scenic pond where fishing is not permitted, inserting a piece of bread between each toe, and lowering your foot into the water. Richard tossed a piece of bread into the pond, igniting hundreds of small fish into a feeding frenzy that made the water look as if it were boiling. “You can often hear the shrieks as far away as the caravan pitches!” laughs Richard. The less brave (like me) are welcome to enjoy the verandah overlooking the lake at any time. Time it right for a midsummer evening, and you’ll be treated to the sight of glow-worms lighting up the hedge.

When not fishing on site or enjoying one of the woodland walks that lead directly from it, you might be lucky and witness a private air display. Richard enjoys nothing more than taking off in his light aircraft and putting on a show for those staying here.

Tony Gage

Geoff Smith / Alamy

TOURING UK SITES

32 November 2020

www.camc.com

7

Black Horse Farm Club site

Visit Britian/Jason Hawkes

This full-facility site boasts two spacious amenity blocks. There are excellent bus connections available.

Pitches: 119 Tent campers welcome

The White Cliffs of Dover

“We have recently converted many ferry pitches to non-awning pitches, as an increasing number of members are staying longer.

There is so much to do in the area!”

Laura Price

Dover Castle most impressive views of the White Cliffs of Dover. It is believed that Shakespeare was a regular visitor to Dover, and that the very cliffs that tower above Samphire Hoe inspired those in his play, King Lear. The name of the cliff here is Shakespeare Cliff, and it’s at this point I bring this stupendous tour of the south-east of England to an abrupt and reluctant close. You could say I’m leaving you with a cliffhanger until next month’s Club magazine. I’ll get my coat.

Visit Britian/JBen Selway

diet is plant-based or not, don’t miss the Planet Earth Kitchen on Rendezvous Street, which is reached through the alleyway opposite the top of the Old High Street.

The historic town of Dover tops the list for culture a little less modern and more suited to the history buff. Dover Castle is an absolute ‘must-see’, not just for its medieval Great Tower and tunnels, but for its Roman Lighthouse and First World War Fire Command Post, the latter offering stunning views across the channel (see english-heritage.org.uk for information).

On your way back to the site, be sure to stop off at the newest piece of England, Samphire Hoe, signposted off the westbound A20 trunk road. This is a 30-hectare nature reserve created by the spoil from the excavation of the Channel Tunnel. The approach road is a little steep, but the payable parking is plentiful and motorhome friendly. From the car park you’ll find a network of paths, some of which are accessible to wheelchair users, which allow you to discover this beautiful and brand new part of the country. Sea fishing permits are available to buy from the tea hut, as are toasted teacakes and other such wonderful treats.

Samphire Hoe is one of the few places where you can garner easy access to the

Staff view

Food & drink Inn Doors Micropub, 96 Sandgate High St, Sandgate, Folkestone CT20 3BY Contact: inndoorsmicropub. co.uk, 07958 474473

Culture Kent Battle of Britain Museum, Aerodrome Road, Hawkinge CT18 7AG Contact: kbobm.org, 01303 893140

Outdoor fun East Cliff and Warren Country Park, Wear Bay Rd, Folkestone CT19 6BL

For the family Howletts Wild Animal Park, Bekesbourne Lane, Bekesbourne CT4 5EL Contact: aspinallfoundation.org/ howletts, 01227 721286

Use the ViewRanger walking app to enjoy a wide range of walking routes in the south-east.

Following the seven-day free trial, Club members save 12% on a PREMIUM + Ordnance Survey Maps for Great Britain subscription with ViewRanger.

See camc.com/viewranger for details. www.camc.com

Tony Gage

Tim Grist Photography/Get

ty

Walking | South-East England

November 2020 33

unlock your

superpowr

TEE A

R

T

RS

R

R

BOUR GU

& BUILT IN

UK

LA

ED

FO

E

&

A V AN M O V

S

C

AR

FREE FIVE N.o1 YEAR

PA R T

N.o1

UIBBL E DESIG N

Q NO

AN

T HE U K LL ’S TI

HE

S

The Powrtouch difference...

OV

E ER 25 Y

A

With great Powr comes great manoeuvrability... all at the touch of a finger!

Effortlessly position your caravan wherever you like with fluid 360˚ remote control that’s accurate to 1mm and move over 2 tons on a 1:4 slope, all without breaking a sweat.

Designed and built in the UK, with a No Quibble Five Year Guarantee, it’s hardly surprising Powrtouch are still the UK’s No1 Caravan Movers.

No matter which make of caravan you own or whatever your budget, Powrtouch have a mover that’s perfect for you.

Call 01283 587900 to find your local powrtouch supplier or visit powrtouch.com Truma Ltd, 2000 Park Lane, Dove Valley Park, Foston, Derby, DE65 5BG XX November 2020

www.camc.com

TOURING CERTIFICATED LOCATIONS

CL SITES UPDATES ENGLAND

CHESHIRE

FRODSHAM (3.9m SE) – Down on the Farm Willow Tree CL, Mr Christopher and Mrs Patricia Pemberton, Roddy Lane, Kingsley, Frodsham WA6 8HQ. 53.268319, -2.659018. 07751 938932; 01928 788058 (after 9pm); pat52@ btinternet.com. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 1 acre; dogs; grass; 16A; max o’fit length 13mtrs; ; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

CORNWALL

MEVAGISSEY (1m W) – Kerthua Caravan Park, Mrs Jo Smejkal, St Ewe, St Austell PL26 6EW. 50.265482, -4.810834. 07966 962220; 01726 842210; kerthuapark@yahoo.com.

Open 1 Apr-30 Sep; 1.5 acres; adults only; dogs; waterside; grass; enhanced pitch (EHU and drinking water); 16A; max o’fit length 7.7mtrs; peaceful; views; lawned; dog walk fr site; pub in 1m; game & coarse fishing & watersports in 5m; sandy beach in 3m; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

CUMBRIA

NEWBY BRIDGE (5.3m SE) – FSC Castle Head, Mr Rhys Davies and Miss Wendy Foster, Grange over Sands, LA11 6QT. 54.216099, -2.889930. 01539 538120; 07984 011176; field-studiescouncil.org; enquiries.ch@ field-studies-council.org. OAY; 0.6 acres; adv bkg req; levelling blocks req; waterside; grass; 16A; ideal for families; comm site adj; views; B & B; WiFi; dog walk fr site; town, shop & pub in 1m; fr £20 (pitch + all occ).

DEVON

GREAT TORRINGTON (5.8m SW) – Lower Withacott (below), David Ley, Langtree, Torrington EX38 8NL. 50.915595, -4.226103. 01805 601247; 07833 517881; withacott.co.uk; withacott@btconnect.com. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 1 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; enhanced pitch (EHU with drinking water); 16A; max o’fit length

7.5mtrs; peaceful; views; wkg fm; Wi-Fi; dog walk fr site; public trans, town & pub in 1m; golf in 5m; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

HEREFORDSHIRE

HEREFORD (3.7m SSW) – Grafton CL Hereford, Mr Patrick (Gamber) Lewis and Felix Lerego, Grafton Lane, Hereford HR2 8BL. 52.0222845, -2.734639. 07519 110239; 01432 806000; graftonclhereford.co.uk; graftoncl@gamber.co.uk. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 1 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; enhanced pitch (EHU with drinking water); 16A; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

LINCOLNSHIRE

MARKET RASEN (3m NW) – Field Farm (below), Mr Mark Foulds, Sand Lane, Osgodby, Market Rasen LN8 3TE. 53.41502, -0.366917. 07947 155163; suefoulds@hotmail.com.

OAY; 0.5 acres; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; 16A; lawned; dog walk fr site; game & coarse fishing in 5m; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

KENT

EASTCHURCH (1.9m ENE) – Rides Caravan Park, Mr William and Mrs Elaine Love, Warden Road, Eastchurch ME12 4HA. 51.412918, 0.884382. 01795 881343; 07889 755177; elainev53@icloud.com. OAY; 2 acres; dogs; hdstdng; 16A; fr £20 (pitch + 2 ad).

NORFOLK

AYLSHAM (6.3m SSW) – Valley Farm, Mr Tim and Mrs Kellie Vanham, Holt Road, Heavingham NR10 5NW. 52.73364, 1.218723. 01603 755166; 07881 922008; kellievanham@gmail. com. OAY; 0.75 acre; adults only; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; 16A; fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

SITTINGBOURNE (4.2m W) – Paradise Camp Site, Mr Ernest Love, Paradise Farm Barn, Lower Hartlip Road, Hartlip ME9 7SU. 51.348618, 0.645947. 01795 843577; 07887 503223; ernestlove@btinternet.com. OAY; 0.75 acres; dogs; adv bkg req; hdstdng; enhanced pitch (EHU with drinking water); 16A; fr £20 (pitch + all occ).

GARSTANG (4.9m N) – White Carr Farm (below), Mr John Boardman and Mr Tom Boardman, White Carr Lane, Forton PR3 1DD. 53.9593, -2.761678. 07970 803999; 07900 803536; info@whitecarrfarm.com.

OAY; 1 acre; dogs; hdstdng; grass; fr £10 (pitch + all occ).

LUTTERWORTH (3.7m ESE) – South Lodge, Mr Richard and Mrs Jenny Heydon, Walcote Road, South Kilworth, Lutterworth LE17 6EQ.

679958; joyceasw6466@gmail.com.

OAY; 0.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; drive over MH waste disposal; hdstdng & grass; 16A; WC (exc); shwr (exc); fr £17 (pitch + all occ).

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

NOTTINGHAM (6.3m NW) – Swingate Farm, Mr Matthew Blant, Swingate, Babbington NG16 2SU. 52.987542, -1.254408. 07803 267303; matthew.blant@sky.com. OAY; 0.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; fr £5 (pitch + all occ).

OXFORDSHIRE

OXFORD (8.6m ENE) – Common Leys Farm, Mr Doug and Mrs Allie Cherry, Waterperry Common, Waterperry EX33 1LQ. 51.778423, -1.110951. 01865 351266; 07435 962805; commonleysfarm@gmail.com. OAY; adults only; hdstdng & grass; 16A; WC (exc); shwr (exc); fr £21 (pitch + all occ).

SHROPSHIRE

SHREWSBURY (4.9m WNW) – FSC Preston Montford (below), Mrs Liz Wilcox, Shrewsbury SY4 1HW. 52.723166; -2.842102. 01743 852040; enquiries.pm@field-studies-council. org. OAY; 1 acre; dogs; grass; 16A; max o’fit length 7.5mtrs; fr £16 (pitch + 2 ad).

LODDON (5.9m ESE) – Oakside, Mrs Susan Woodhouse, Beccles Road, Haddiscoe NR14 6PD. 52.509985, 1.586554. 07771 251882; 01502

LANCASHIRE

LEICESTERSHIRE

www.camc.com

52.439609, -1.128387. 07912 180859; 01455 559493; richard.heydon@ yahoo.com. OAY; 1 acre; adults only; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; 16A; peaceful; views; lawned; Wi-Fi; dog walk fr site; public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; fr £15 (pitch + all occ).

Historic Oxford

joe daniel price/Getty

NEW CLS

November 2020 35

TOURING CERTIFICATED LOCATIONS

SOLIHULL (4.6m SW) – Lady Lane Wharf, Mr Robert Hutton, Lady Lane, Earlswood, Solihull B94 6AH. 52.373623, -1.833019. 01564 280264; waterwaysleisure.com; ladylane@ waterpride.co.uk. OAY; 0.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; unfenced water; hdstdng; enhanced pitches (EHU with drinking water); 16A; max o’fit length 7.5mtrs; WC (sh); shwr (SH); fr £20 (pitch + 2 ad).

WORCESTERSHIRE

BEWDLEY (7.4m N) – Nash End, Tracey Lawley, Nash End Farm, Arley, Bewdley DY12 1SR. 52.432779, -2.339952. 01299 861245; 07487 585678; lawley957@btinternet.com.

1 Mar-31 Oct; 1 acre; dogs; sl pitches; levelling blocks req; drive over MH waste disposal; grass; enhanced (EHU with drinking water); 16A; max o’fit length 7.5mtrs; fr £18 (pitch + 2 ad).

WALES

GWYNEDD

BETHESDA (4.8m WNW) – Bryngwredog Isaf, Mrs Anna Griffith, Waen Wen, Bangor LL57 4UF. 53.196709; -4.125435. 07789 648624; carafaniocaebach@outlook.com.

OAY; 0.5 acre; dogs; hdstdng &

grass; 16A; max o’fit length 7.5mtrs; fr £15 (pitch + 2 ad).

PEMBROKESHIRE

NARBERTH (2.8m E) – Brynbanc Farm, Mr Michael Hirst, Lampeter Velfrey, Narberth SA67 8UN. 51.800312, -4.690595. 07976 737774; 07875 693366; brynbancfarm@ outlook.com. Open 1 Mar-30 Nov; 1.5 acres; dogs; grass; max o’fit length 7.5mtrs; fr £9.99 (pitch + 2 ad).

POWYS

BRECON (6m N) – Tynewydd Farm, Mr Mike Bushall, Lower Chapel, Brecon LD3 9RE. 52.01658, -3.411234.

07801 376129; 01874 690544; mickglos@aol.com. Open 1 Feb-31 Oct; 0.4 acre; adults only; dogs; grass; 16A; max o’fit length 4.5mtrs; WC (sh); fr £20 (pitch + 2 ad).

UPDATES

IMPORTANT: Nightly fees may differ from those published in the Directory due to a change of facilities or ownership. It is therefore essential to confirm current fees when enquiring or making a booking. Not all CLs accompanied by a pub symbol in the Directory are located on the site of a public house – some are near to a pub (up to three

miles away), so please check with the owner before visiting.

112 SANDBACH – Hollins Green Farm. New email: hollinsgreenfarm@ hotmail.com 258 KENDAL – Mosergh Farm Caravan Site. Now open all year.

Email: margaretatkinson71 @gmail.com 557 ILFORD – Aldborough Hall Farm. Price is £16.

986 SUTTON-ON-SEA – Field House Threeways. Mobile is 07526 721969 1517 HAYWARDS HEATH – Heaven Farm. New tel no: 01825 791115. New email: heavenfarmleisure@gmail.com 1541 BOGNOR REGIS – Chalcroft Cottage. Email is chalcroftcottage@ mail.uk 1601 CALNE – The Duke Hotel.

Change of certificate holder: Neil Richardson. Tel: 01249 760634; 07526 550558. Email: thedukehotel hilmarton@outlook.com 2144 PWLLHELI – Lleyn Holidays – Cae Garw Caravan Site.

Tel: 07968 682521 2154 ABERGAVENNY – Croft Farm.

Email: info@whitecastlevineyard.com FEB 2019 MAG HUNTINGDON – Rookery Waters. New contact: Becky German; 07884 180768;

beckygerman@rookerywaters.co.uk FEB 2020 MAG CRIEFF – Islabank.

New email: admin@ fentontransport.co.uk JUL 2020 MAG WINCHESTER – Popham Airfield. New email: caravans@popham-airfield.co.uk SEP 2020 MAG ATTLEBOROUGH – Broadmarsh Farm. This is not an adult only site CLOSURES The following five-pitch CLs are closed and no longer certified by the Club. This does not affect any other business that a landowner may be operating.

52 ELY – Mr Sulman, Slade Paddock 631 FAREHAM – Mrs J Burrows, Arden 698 HEREFORD – Stephen Bowen, Pentwyn Farm 1049 DEREHAM – Mr L Gunstead, Penny Meadows 1132 NORWICH – Mrs P A Hammond, The Old Stracey 1247 THAME – L A Preston, Coombe Farm 1257 OAKHAM – B D Gibson, Sconsboro Hill Farm 1959 BETTYHILL – Mrs M Macfadyen 2010 AMLWCH – Paul Quinlan, Dulas Bay Caravan Site 2019 BENLLECH – Mrs D T Purslow-Briggs, Ty Mawr Helen Hotson / Alamy

WEST MIDLANDS

Brecon Beacons

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

See camc.com for the latest site and CL information and follow official UK Government (gov.uk) and local government guidelines at all times. Please note: routes provided by autoroutes or satellite navigation systems may include roads unsuitable for vehicles towing trailers or caravans. There may also be specific width or height restrictions. For caravanfriendly local routes to Club sites, CLs and commercial sites we would advise using the standard directions published in the Sites Directory & Handbook and on our website.

36 November 2020

www.camc.com

NE W Simply enter the size and weight of your motorhome or towing outfit and the Avtex Tourer Two (Caravan and Motorhome Club Edition) with its new advanced Dual Core Processor will guide you to your destination avoiding height, width and weight restricted roads.

Providing you with route warnings such as sharp bends or steep hills, the Avtex Tourer Two will even advise you of traffic jams and offer alternate routes when available.

Satellite Navigation for Caravans & Motorhomes • 7” Frameless Display (pinch-to-zoom) • New Dual Core processor for complete enhanced performance • Enhanced Specific routing for Caravans & Motorhomes – Customised routes created for the size and weight of your caravan or motorhome.

– Camper specific speed limits tailored to your vehicle.

• Road Warnings – Caravan / Motorhomes specific road warnings for bridge heights, weight limits, sharp curves, steep grades, narrow roads and more.

– Elevation map tool – be prepared for upcoming steep gradiants.

Unlimited updates for Safety camera alerts.

• Find the right campgrounds and stopover places with Tourer Two EXCLUSIVE data bases – Exclusive pre-loaded Caravan and Motorhome Club Site rich data bases including Certified Locations and Overseas Sites with detailed information.

– Trailer’s Park’s database of 8,500 of cost-free motorhome parking places across Western Europe (NEW).

– 17,000 NKC customer rated campgrounds and stopover places in 38 countries.

– 9,000 European campsites inspected by ACSI every year and search results based on amenities.

– Get information about prices, facilities, terrain, maximum number of places and more and filter by amenities. Contains pictures of most of the sites.

– Easily pan the map to search for Campgrounds (NEW.) – Shows camp sites, rest areas, attractions or fuel stations up ahead and milestones along your route.

• Free European map updates via PC, Mac or WiFi • Free Digital Traffic • Hands-free features include Bluetooth® calling, smart notifications and voice-activated navigation • Navigate Complex Interchanges with “spoken turn-by-turn” directions and active lane guidance • TripAdvisor Travel POIs with ratings • BC™30 and BC™40 Wireless Backup Camera compatible

Available with exclusive member discount from: shop.camc.com

for further information call

02920 847670 avtex.co.uk

FOREIGN TOURING LUXEMBOURG

ssss

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please keep up to date with current travel guidelines on the Government website (gov.uk) and visit our website (camc.com) for foreign travel updates and information. We also recommend that you check with businesses/attractions that are listed regarding opening dates/restrictions.

38 November 2020

The famous SchiessentĂźmpel waterfall and bridge

www.camc.com

SMALL

WONDER It may cover less than a thousand square miles, but there are countless reasons to visit the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, write Nigel and Kay Hutson

L

andlocked, bordered by the perennially popular holiday destinations of Belgium, France and Germany, and measuring just 60 miles from north to south, it would be easy to overlook Luxembourg in your plans. But there are numerous reasons why this country (officially the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg) is worthy of your attention – not least its intriguing history and beautiful countryside.

Following a relatively easy drive from Zeebrugge in Belgium, we arrived at our first site in the Grand Duchy – Nommerlayen, near the village of Nommern in the canton of Mersch. Despite the temptation to unwind on site, we decided to go for a walk, following one of the trails, (appropriately named the Well Being Trail), through the adjacent forest. Although it involved a couple of steep climbs, it was just what we needed and set the tone for a memorable break.

The following day we were ready to explore further afield. Just a handful of miles from the site we discovered picturesque Larochette, where a ruined castle – parts of which date from the 12th century – perches high on a rock overlooking the small town.

Our destination, though, was the wonderfully named ‘Schiessentümpel’ waterfall near Mullerthal, which you can walk to easily from a car park on the CR121. Here the Black Ernz river cascades over rocks below a striking sandstone bridge. The crossing, which dates from 1879, has come to symbolise the region known as ‘Little Switzerland’ – apparently it’s the most photographed attraction in the area.

Lunchtime brought us to Echternach – Luxembourg’s oldest town and the cultural centre of Little Switzerland. An abbey was www.camc.com

founded here in 698 by St Willibrord (a monk who hailed from Ripon in Yorkshire), and today the town is dominated by the Romanesque Revival-style Basilica that sits on its site. On the hour, the carillon of bells played Beethoven’s Ode to Joy – and what a joy it was to hear.

From Echternach we followed the River Sûre (which forms part of the border with Germany) to Wasserbillig where it joins the Moselle. Attractions here include the aquarium, which holds an incredible 90,000 litres of water and is home to a diverse range of native and exotic fish – from pretty neon tetras to vicious piranhas.

We then skirted the Moselle for a while, passing through countless vineyards,before returning to our base at Nommerlayen. As you drive along the country’s wonderfully smooth roads the vistas are wonderful – it seems that each bend of the road reveals another spectacular view, sometimes with a castle thrown in for good measure.

The next day we visited the ruins of Le Château de Beaufort before heading northwards towards Bourscheid. As we drove along the CR348 from Burden we came across a wonderfully located (and – as always in Luxembourg – spotlessly clean) lay-by with picnic tables and a fantastic view of Château de Bourscheid over the fields.

The castle (the country’s largest) is well worth a visit. Constructed between the 10th and 15th centuries, and boasting a series of cylindrical, cone-topped towers, it has a fairytale feel about it – and the views of the surrounding valley are incredible.

An eight-mile drive southwards then took us to our second stopover site – Camping Gritt at Ingeldorf. On the banks of the aforementioned Sûre, it enjoys an attractive location bordered by farmland. Well-paved

1

Nommerlayen This terraced site offers spacious pitches, and a shop, restaurant, bar and takeaway.

Pitches: 224

Site view “We welcome visitors from all over Europe, but as the site has Dutch owners, we do have a lot of Dutch guests. As there are lots of lovely walks from the site, and we have a large swimming pool, many people don’t go far, but we are within easy reach of Luxembourg City and many other attractions.”

Redgie Miny (owner) and Nora Schmit (receptionist)

Food & drink Dimmi Si, 1, Route de ColmarBerg, L-7525 Mersch Contact: dimmisi.lu, 00352 263 22222

Culture Château de Larochette, Montée de Château, L-7622 Larochette Contact: larochette.eu, 00352 837497

Outdoor fun Echternach Lake, Chemin vers Rodenhof, L-6479 Echternach Contact: mullerthal.lu, 00352 720457

For the family Butterfly Garden, Route de Trèves, L-6793 Grevenmacher Contact: papillons.lu, 00352 758539

November 2020 39

FOREIGN TOURING LUXEMBOURG

2

Gritt

Illustraion: Louise Turpin

The River Sûre flows past the campsite, creating a feeling of tranquillity. The two amenities blocks were rebuilt a couple of years ago.

Pitches: 130

Visitor view

Rent-a-Kanu by KanuRaft, 21, Route d’Ettelbruck, L-9230 Diekirch Contact: kanuraft.eu

For the family Château de Vianden, Montée du Château, L-9408 Vianden Contact: castle-vianden.lu

40 November 2020

N

Bourscheid

H

Outdoor fun

K WIT OO

CO

National Museum of Military History, 10, Bamertal, L-9209 Diekirch Contact: mnhm.net, 00352 808908

Luxembourg’s capital city is easily accessible from both campsites, but the journey from Ingeldorf was incredibly straightforward. Just across the river from the site is a bus stop from which you can catch a direct service to Ettelbrück railway station. From there you can be in the city in under an hour.

If you can, sit on the right-hand side of the train as you’ll be rewarded with fine views of the city as you approach. It’s about a mile’s walk from the station to the old city, with its majestic Grand Ducal Palace, 17th-century Cathédrale Notre-Dame and lovely views down to the River Alzette.

There is so much to see and do here, but high on your list should be the 'Bock Casemates' – an underground defence system comprising miles of tunnels and galleries set into a rocky cliff-face.

Capable of sheltering thousands of defenders and housing kitchens, workshops and livestock, parts of the complex date to the mid-17th century when the town was under

Camping Gritt closes for winter on 31 October 2020 and Nommerlayen’s season ends on 1 November 2020, but both reopen in early April 2021. Bookings for 2021 will be available on 26 October 2020 on the Club website or by calling 01342 316101.

E

Culture

CAPITAL IDEA

Spanish rule (the attraction was closed at the time of publication –please check luxembourg-city.com).

Sadly we didn’t get to see everything we had hoped to – but the beauty of this wonderful country is that everything comes in one easily accessible package; we can’t wait to return.

C

Food & drink The Smugglers Inn, 121 Route de Gilsdorf, L-9234 Diekirch Contact: smugglersinn.lu

footpaths/cycle tracks lead directly from the site into the town of Diekirch two miles away.

Diekirch was heavily involved in the ‘Battle of the Bulge’ – Germany's last major offensive on the Western Front during the Second World War – and you can learn more about this and the role of Luxembourg’s resistance fighters at the National Museum of Military History. We also stopped at the fascinating Motor Museum (and attached brewery museum).

B

“We have spent a week at this quiet and relaxing site by the river, which is run by very friendly and helpful staff to a very high standard. It’s an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area, whether that’s by car, walking or cycling.”

Karen and John Harrison, Yorkshire

FIDEN

caravanclub.co.uk/ overseas-holidays/bookwith-confidence

The Moselle

MEMBER SINCE...

Caravanners Nigel and Kay have been members of the Club for over 20 years

www.camc.com

MAP

The famous SchiessentĂźmpel waterfall and bridge

www.camc.com

November 2016 XX

THE NEW

K WIT OO

E

C

CO

N

H

B

TOURING OVERSEAS TRAVEL

FIDEN

Find out more at: camc.com/ worldwide

Beautiful Sri Lanka is just one of the Club’s new worldwide tour destinations for 2021/2022. Closer to home we are hosting a cycling tour of the Loire valley, a magical floral experience in the Netherlands and more. Why not plan your next big adventure today?

PEARL OF THE INDIAN OCEAN Unforgettable scenery, exotic wildlife and fascinating culture combine on this once-in-a-lifetime tour of Sri Lanka – renowned as the pearl of the Indian Ocean.

Following your flight to Colombo, you will be met by your knowledgeable local tour leader and transferred to your hotel in Waikkal, north of Negombo. Having had a chance to settle in you will then be taken on a tuk tuk tour of Negombo, a lively town on the countrys west coast.

On the fifth day, you will be introduced to your motorhome (and personal driver!) before setting off for Wilpattu National Park, home to leopards, elephants, sloth bears and water buffalo.

NEW

It's then on to Habarana and the UNESCO world heritage site of Sigiriya Rock – an extraordinary geological formation that rises 200m above the landscape and is topped by ancient palatial ruins. More wonders are revealed in the beautiful city of

The world at your fingertips The Club is offering a host of new escorted and independent tours in 2021 and 2022 to incredible locations such as Australia, New Zealand, Southern Africa and the United States (right). To find out more please see camc.com/worldwide.

NEW

Kandy, where guests will have the opportunity to see the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and the Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa) which houses a tooth belonging to the Buddha. Each evening a ceremony is held (the ‘Thewawa’) during which the casket containing the tooth is put on display for the faithful.

Having stopped at Nuwara Eliya – a city famed for its tea cultivation – you will have the chance to experience yet more sensational wildlife in Yala National Park. A region of varied habitats from thorny scrub to dense forest and lagoon, it is home to diverse creatures including leopards, bears, crocodiles, eagles and kingfishers.

As your tour nears its conclusion, you could embark on another game drive in Yala National Park, before the drive on to Bentota.

Having returned your motorhome, you will enjoy four nights at a beachside hotel as well as a sumptuous farewell dinner. A trip to the famed Galle fort and walled city (pictured), which has its roots in the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial periods, is just the icing on the cake of this memorable tour.

For information on these tours, please visit camc.com/worldwide or call 01342 488059 42 November 2020

Duration/type: 21 days/escorted motorhome tour Departs: 5 Nov 2021, 19 Mar 2022 Price: from £4,499 per person for 5 Nov 2021 departure based on two sharing Price includes: outfit hire, return flights, all transfers, local tour leaders, 3 nights at a 4-star hotel in Negombo/ Waikkal including breakfast, welcome dinner, Negombo city tour in a tuk tuk, 13 days in a 4- or 5-berth motorhome, personal driver, game drives, Kandy City Tour, a visit to a tea factory, half-day safari in Yala National Park, morning tour of Galle, 4 nights at a 4-star beach hotel in Bentota, farewell dinner www.camc.com

FRONTIERS CYCLING IN THE LOIRE

DUTCH BULB FIELDS

Duration/type: 10 nights / hosted group Departs: 3 Jul 2021 Price: from £975 for outfit plus two people Price includes*: 10 nights at Camping Les Saules, tour hosts, excursions and meals**, map of local cycle routes *Ferry travel, holiday insurance and bike hire (available at campsite if needed) not included **As detailed in itinerary

NEW

*Ferry travel, holiday insurance and bike hire (available at campsite if needed) not included **As detailed in itinerary

ALPINE AUSTRIA Duration/type: 14 nights / hosted group Departs: 17 Jun 2021 Price: from £1,999 for outfit plus two people Price includes*: 14 nights at Camping Pierre de Coubertin, tour hosts, excursions and meals**, transport during excursions *Ferry travel, holiday insurance and bike hire (available at campsite if needed) not included ** As detailed in itinerary

Duration/type: 13 nights / hosted group Departs: 13 June 2021 Price: from £1,339 for outfit plus two people Fresh mountain air, beautiful green alpine meadows and snow-topped mountains are all on the menu during this memorable tour.

From your base at Camping Grubhof in Lofer, you will have the chance to visit the famous Krimml Waterfalls (where the river cascades down the mountainside in three stages) and the National Park Centre in Mittersill. Also included in your trip are visits to ancient Salzburg and its castle as well as a guided walking tour of Innsbruck. Perhaps the highlight, though, comes on the 10th day, when you and your fellow travellers embark along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road into the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park.

Price includes*: 13 nights at Camping Grubhof, tour hosts, excursions and meals** *Ferry travel, holiday insurance and bike hire (available at campsite if needed) not included ** As detailed in itinerary

K WIT OO

CO

N

H

Your base for this 14-night experience is the excellent Camping Pierre de Coubertin in charming Ribeauvillé, north-eastern France.

During your stay you will gain an insight into the various wines produced in the Alsace region, with visits to vineyards in areas such as Zellenberg, Katzenthal, Barr, Wihr-au-Val and Riquewihr. Other highlights include a steam train ride and boat trip along the Rhine, as well as a visit to the magnificent Château de Haut-Koenigsbourg and the Palais du Pain d’Épices (Gingerbread Palace).

Price includes*: 7 nights at Camping Koningshof, tour hosts, excursions and meals**

E

WINES OF ALSACE

A welcome drink with traditional biscuits at Camping Koningshof marks the perfect start to this holiday, during which you will have the chance to see the incredible colours of the Dutch bulb fields. On the third day you will visit the exquisite Keukenhof Gardens which are renowned for their stunning floral displays. But this trip is not just about flowers – visits to Katwijk aan Zee and its lighthouse, the city of Amsterdam, the Delft blue pottery factory, a clog maker and a cheese farm are are also on the agenda.

C

This relaxing new tour gives you the chance to take in the magical scenery and chateaux of the Loire on two wheels.

Cycling excursions to Château de Villesavin (with onward ride to a chocolaterie), the beautiful town of Blois and Château de Troussay are included in your holiday, while you will also have the opportunity to explore at your leisure. A coach trip to medieval Amboise and a trip aboard a traditional wooden, flat-bottomed boat on the Loire are further highlights.

B

NEW

Duration/type: 7 nights / hosted group Departs: 13 Apr 2021 Price: from £765 for outfit plus two people

FIDEN

For information on these tours, please visit camc.com/european-tours or call 01342 488 711

Find out more at: camc.com/ confidence

www.camc.com

November 2020 43

NEWS OVERSEAS TRAVEL

Stay at Santa Fortunata and see beautiful Sorrento

EUROPEAN TRAVEL – BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

Its understandable you might feel a little nervous about travelling to Europe at the moment – but we’re with you every step of the way.

There are many reasons why you you should be confident when booking through the Caravan and Motorhome Club. For example, all the sites on our overseas programme are certified Covid-Secure, and we offer the flexibility to amend or cancel our package holidays* (which are ABTA-bonded for further protection).

Whats more, if you book an overseas site alongside a (caravan, motorhome or campervan) ferry or Eurotunnel crossing youll get the best price – guaranteed!** And remember the Club provides overseas emergency assistance through its Red Pennant service – visit camc.com/redpennant for details.

Dreaming of summer?

It may seem a long way off – but now is the perfect time to plan your Summer 2021 holidays! Did you know that the Club secures pitches at more than 300 European campsites – each of which has been inspected for quality?

From the sandy beaches of Portugal’s Atlantic coast to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Bled in Slovenia, and from medieval Lübeck in northern Germany to the kite-surfing capital of Valdevaqueros at Spain’s southernmost tip, we have a site to suit you. And theyre ready to book today – here’s just a taste...

Turiscampo (E07), Algarve, Portugal Youll find everything you need for a fun-packed family holiday at Turiscampo, near Lagos on the Algarve.

Facilities include a gym and spa (extra fee applies), terrace bar, and restaurant with a menu to suit all tastes. The stunning beach at Luz is within easy reach, while keen golfers are spoiled for choice in this region.

PLEASE CHECK THE LATEST FOREIGN TRAVEL ADVICE AT CAMC.COM AND GOV.UK

K WIT OO

N

E

C

Val de Bonnal (J01), Franche-Comté, France This is the perfect location for families looking to enjoy an active break. Three large lakes offer opportunities for water sports and fishing, while youll also find a pool and play areas as well as organised entertainment on site (subject to potential restrictions). Cycling is popular in these parts, but if you fancy exploring further afield, Besançon (boasting examples of Roman architecture) and Montbéliard with its castle, are within driving distance.

H

Santa Fortunata (Y24), Sorrento, Italy Enjoying an idyllic location among the olive, lemon, oak and poplar trees overlooking Sorrento harbour is Santa Fortunata – the perfect site for a fantastic summer getaway.

A steep path leads down the hillside to a small, rocky, private beach from which you can enjoy snorkelling in the clear waters. There is a restaurant on site serving traditional local fare, while the romantic town of Sorrento itself is a couple of miles away.

GREAT FOR FAMILIES

CO

Le Château de Lez-Eaux (N02), Normandy, France This five-star campsite situated close to the popular seaside resort of Granville is a great base if you want to explore the Normandy coast, including the D-Day landing beaches and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mont St Michel (which you can drive to in under 40 minutes). Other popular excursions include boat trips to the archipelago of Chausey (where sea kayaking is available) and charming, historic Avranches.

B

GREAT FOR COUPLES

FIDEN

Find out more at: camc.com/ confidence

Covid-Secure certified campsites

Our trusted campsite partners offer certified Covid-Secure sites that comply with local guidelines.

Free cancellations*

Freedom and flexibility to amend or cancel package holidays if FCDO advises against travel.

No Club amendment or Club cancellation fees.

Best prices guaranteed** Book an overseas site, caravan, motorhome or campervan Eurotunnel or ferry crossing through the Club and you'll get the best price – guaranteed!

* Covers holiday cancellations in line with FCDO advice. T&Cs apply. ** See camc.com/pricematch for information and terms and conditions

For information on the above sites, please visit camc.com/overseas or call 01342 488101 44 November 2020

www.camc.com

TOURING OVERSEAS TRAVEL

EXCLUSIVE RANGE

This is Fusion.

Stylish Italian Motorhomes With Full UK Specification Starting at 6m long, 2021 Fusion models feature a variety of expertly designed practical layouts, including a plethora of high specification equipment as standard for unbeatable value, and crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Models

6

Min Berth

4

Max. Berth

4

For further information, brochure downloads & to book a viewing visit:

WWW.M C LOU IS F US IO N .C O.UK O R CA LL 0 1 3 8 6 8 5 3 3 3 8

NEW FOR 2021 • Luxurious, Modern & Practical Interior Layouts • Innovative WPS Wood Free Construction • Spacious Heated Rear Garages with 300kg Weight Limit and LED Lighting • Habitation Door with Window, Bin, Blind & Pleated Sliding Mosquito Net • 120W Solar Panel & Leisure Battery • Fitted Cab Blinds • DAB Radio with Reversing Camera

Flight of fancy COUNTRY MATTERS RING-NECKED PARAKEET

David Chapman is mesmerised by an exotic bird that has flourished in the UK since being released into the wild

46 November 2020

STAY AT

Club sites close to areas where there is an abundance of ring-necked parakeets. n Henley Four Oaks n Crystal Palace n Alderstead Heath n Wyatts Covert See camc.com for the latest site and CL information and follow official UK Government (gov.uk) and local government advice at all times.

Female (left) and male (right) ring-necked parakeets

November 2020 47

COUNTRY MATTERS RING-NECKED PARAKEET A parakeet is able to skilfully peel and eat a sweet chestnut kernel

beginning to see them. They have now been recorded around most of England and Wales and there is a breeding population in the central belt of Scotland. However, their stronghold remains the South-East, and in the parks of London they are one of the most frequently seen species.

Some naturalists are wary, even nervous, about the increasing numbers. There is a chance that they will have a negative impact on other birds, particularly when it comes to finding nest sites. Parakeets are ‘hole-nesting’, which puts them in direct conflict with a number of other species; and as they begin their occupation very early in the season they are likely to claim the best sites. However, parakeets are quite large birds – so they are not going to compete with the likes of blue tits or nuthatches for nest-holes. The jackdaw and, possibly, starling more likely to suffer, but only time will tell.

NOVEMBER

LOOK OUT FOR Ring-necked parakeets favour parkland habitats that are also excellent for spotting fungi in autumn: n Beefsteak fungus grows mostly on oak and sweet chestnut trees n Candlesnuff fungus can be seen on any rotting stumps n Hedgehog fungus usually grows on rotting beech trees

48 November 2020

H

igh-pitched cries pierce the air as a squadron of birds takes flight. I catch a brief glimpse of the flock as it disappears behind a large, mature tree heaving with ripe sweet chestnuts that are bursting out from their prickly shells. The birds reappear, silhouetted against the grey autumnal sky, flying in formation and at speed.

More join in, attracted by the cacophony, their long tails and streamlined profiles distinctive enough to identify them as ring-necked parakeets.

Originally from Africa and southern Asia, they’ve been around these parts for a while now and are the UK’s only naturalised parrot. I’ve seen them plenty of times before but I still can’t get used to the fact that such an exotic-looking creature has become so common here.

The ring-necked parakeet, also known as the rose-ringed parakeet, is one of the most successful of our recent introductions. Sightings of wild birds have been recorded in the UK since 1855 but it wasn’t until 1969 that they became established as regular breeding residents. At no point was a decision taken by anyone in authority to introduce the species here but individual birds either escaped or were released illegally.

From a population of just a handful, their numbers reached about 1,000 in 1986 but now there are over 30,000 pairs with their distribution spreading all the time. My family live in the north-west of England, where parakeets have been around for many years, while I hail from Cornwall where we are just

BOUNTY HUNTER

In terms of diet the parakeet is an adaptable bird. It is prepared to come into our gardens to take scraps from bird tables but, in autumn, its preferred bounty is on the trees. All manner of seeds are available but sweet chestnuts are a favourite. I enjoyed watching them skilfully holding the nuts with their feet while peeling the skin from the kernels. I was struck by how well adapted the bird is for this purpose. It can balance in a swaying tree on one leg while manipulating a chestnut with the other foot, its large hooked bill and chunky tongue turning and stripping the kernel.

The parakeet’s bright crimson beak is in striking contrast to its green plumage. To spot the feature that earned this species its name, though, you will need to find a male. He has a subtle rose-coloured ring around the back of his neck which becomes black under his chin.

In autumn and winter parakeets will gather at roost sites for safety. In London these roosts may number in the hundreds – late afternoon and early morning are the best times to see large flocks of them. It seems strange that, while some of our native species are struggling to survive, in the parakeet we have a bird that has found a niche and is thriving here.

MEMBER SINCE...

Motorhomer David Chapman joined the Club in 2000

www.camc.com

A fabulous vintage music & dance HOLIDAY, for all

Caravanners and Motorhomers

FREE

BROCHURE

www.twinwoodfestival.com

“

AVAILABLE

I once witnessed a crab shedding its old armour

”

sic Acts Over 100 Top Live Mu to the 1970s. s al journey from the 1920

A magic

e with 15 beautifully sit e ag rit he rb pe su a at inwood takes place fascinating museums.

Now in its 19th year, Tw ith w ng alo d, an dl oo w e esqu themed venues, in pictur

ric hook-up available.

s 16 amp elect 5 nights stay with excellent campsite •

•

Restaurant Huge Dance Floors Great Food & Bars, including Indoor s) Hair & Beauty Salons Vintage Shopping Village (150 Trader

TWO PEOPLE

5 NIGHTS CAMPING

•

A fabulously fun and friendly mini holiday, for

(NON-ELECTRIC)

4 DAYS ENTERTAINMENT

ONLY

£298

• Comedy &rksCabhopares t • Dance Wo all the family.

Call 01234 824773, or click

27th to 30th August 2021 Bedfordshire MK41 6AB

www.twinwoodfestival.com For TICKETS, INFO and our FREE BROCHURE.

SPECIAL SNOWDONIA

Sebastian Wasek / Alamy

Porthdinllaen on the Llšn Peninsula lies close to the 360 route

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

See camc.com for the latest site information and follow official UK Government (gov.uk) as well as local government guidelines at all times. We also recommend that you check with businesses/attractions that are mentioned regarding opening dates/restrictions.

50 November 2020

www.camc.com

IN

loop the

A new 360-mile tour of North Wales takes in the region’s star attractions as well as some lesser-known gems. Jonathan Manning helps you plan your future visits

River Mawddach

www.camc.com

Visit Britain/Charlie Waite

Caernarfon

Visit Britain/Lee Beel

H

ot on the heels of Scotland’s resoundingly successful ‘North Coast 500’ – a 500-mile tour along the scenic perimeter of the Highlands – comes the ‘Snowdonia 360’.

This fledgling route circumnavigates Wales’ north-west, tracing three distinct loops around Anglesey; Snowdon itself, Llŷn Peninsula and Llandudno; and the southern half of the national park from Harlech down to Machynlleth. The 360 takes in the crown jewels of Snowdonia, unearths lesser-known gems, and passes close to five Club sites and a further 85 Certificated Locations (CLs) in this dramatically scenic region.

There are no 360 waymarks or signposts as I join the route at Dolgellau, a market town on the banks of the River Mawddach. This is the land of ‘double-L’ and ‘double-D’ place names, and the Welsh language forms part of the background noise in T H Roberts, a highceilinged café featuring impressively tall wooden shelves laden with mugs, teapots, tubs and jars, although the homemade cakes are the star temptations.

Dolgellau’s tourist information office was closed, but clues to its principal attractions aren’t hard to find. The pavements are busy with visitors in walking gear and cycling kit because the mighty peak of Cadair Idris – at 893m (2,930ft) the highest mountain in southern Snowdonia – towers over the town, while those who prefer flatter terrain can follow the Mawddach Trail along a disused railway

track to the spectacular Mawddach Estuary. I point the bonnet of my Volkswagen Grand California down the other side of the river and drive to Barmouth, a small seaside resort blessed with a vast beach. It’s a lovely spot to dig toes into the sand and watch the sunset.

MAN OF HARLECH

As the light fades I head north, passing dunes and saltmarsh punctuated by static caravan parks, until I reach Min Y Don, an Affiliated Site in Harlech. The shower block is immaculate and I learn that ‘golchfa llestri’ is Welsh for dishwashing!

Dawn breaks with early rays of sunshine casting long shadows from Harlech Castle. It’s one of a series of imposing fortresses built by Edward I in a bid to control Wales, with sister strongholds dotted along the Snowdonia 360 route at Caernarfon, Beaumaris and Conwy. All are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Harlech has an eye-catching location, perched on a cliff with sea views to the west, mountain vistas to the east, and entry via a ‘floating’ walkway. But Caernarfon is the most photogenic, a hybrid of castle and palace guarding the mouth of the River Seiont. These estuary locations serve as a reminder that while Snowdonia is synonymous with mountains, it is rivers rather than rock that persuaded humans to settle here. The Mawddach, Seiont, Conwy and Dwyryd are the lifeblood of the region.

The tide is out in the Dwyryd Estuary as I gaze across the sand flats from a folly in the extraordinary model village of Portmeirion.

November 2020 51

SPECIAL SNOWDONIA

RIGHT ANGLE

After slow progress along the tight bends and narrow carriageways of Llŷn’s B-roads, it’s something of a relief to pick up the A499 and A487 for a brisk drive to Anglesey, crossing the Menai Bridge and heading directly for the island’s Sea Zoo. With so much of the Snowdonia 360 hugging the coastline it’s fascinating to see the collection of fish, octopus, anemone and lobster native to these shores – the aquarium is even refreshed daily with water from the Menai Strait.

The natural world is also front and centre a little farther along the coastline at Newborough Nature Reserve, where miles of walking trails and mountain bike tracks thread their way through Corsican pines to reach dunes and a spellbinding beach, with the mountains of Snowdonia on the horizon.

If there’s a risk of feeling like you’re being frogmarched along a route without having sufficient time to appreciate or enjoy a specific attraction, discoveries like Newborough are the reward – an Eden off the beaten track. For some, the choices you will need to make along the 360 are easy – 52 November 2020

Llandudno

Holyhead

Bangor

Colwyn Bay Visit Britain/Joe Wainwright

Working to the philosophy of “Cherish the past, adorn the present, construct for the future”, the architect Clough Williams-Ellis designed a series of brightly coloured buildings, towers and squares as an example of how architecture could enhance rather than diminish the natural environment. It’s a mind-blowing place, meticulously crafted in stone and glass.

Portmeirion is a generational divider – for some it will forever be associated with the incarceration of Patrick ‘Number 6’ McGoohan in The Prisoner; while for the Britpop generation, the village provided the backdrop for Supergrass’s video for hit single Alright, with band members Gaz, Danny and Mick bombing about on Chopper bikes.

After the pizzazz of Portmeirion, the grave of former Prime Minister David Lloyd George appears modest and subdued in a nearby copse; a mossy boulder in the middle of a walled shrine marks the final resting place of the firebrand MP for Caernarfon. Farther west, in the pretty fishing village of Aberdaron at the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula, I follow a well-trodden trail along the rugged headland that serves up fabulous views of Bardsey Island, two miles out to sea. Boat trips to the island from neighbouring Porth Meudwy cost £35 return, with the chance of spotting seals and porpoises along the way.

Visit Britain/Lee Beel

From top: Harlech Castle; Newborough beach; Jonathans Volkswagen Grand California

Caernarfon

Bala

Aberdaron

Club sites

Barmouth Tywyn Map for illustrative purposes only

Info: snowdonia360.com Stay: Riverside Touring Park AS; Coed-y-Llwyn Club site; Min y Don AS; Cae Mawr Club site; Penhros Club site, Gwern-y-Bwlch Club site historians have the castles, steam train fans have heritage lines, golfers have a host of courses to play – but for a jack of all trades the 360 delivers amazing variety, including roadside stone circles and craft potteries.

After a night at Tyddyn Osgar CL, complete with hot shower, toilet and a grandstand view of Snowdonia’s ridgeline through the windscreen, I leave Anglesey and head for the imposing mountains on the horizon. These gnarled knuckles of rock have stalked this tour since Dolgellau, as intimidating a presence as bouncers outside a nightclub, and I decide to get up close and personal on the tallest of them all, Snowdon.

Puffing up the Pyg Track, I’m buffeted by wind and stung by pellets of rain as I climb. It’s a full-on mountain environment, with jagged outcrops, scree slopes and the aquamarine Glaslyn (‘Blue Lake’) nestling below a summit disappointingly shrouded in cloud. From the

top I’d been hoping to see the rest of the Snowdonia 360; north to the Great Orme by Llandudno; east to Betws-y-Coed with its high street of outdoor gear shops; and south to the glistening slate in the quarries above Blaenau Ffestiniog. Instead, it’s back to the campervan to pick up the next leg of this brilliant new touring route that brims with great places to see, explore and enjoy. n As this issue went to press new coronavirus measures were being put in place in certain parts of the country. We hope you enjoy reading this article and that it helps you plan your future trips. Please follow UK Government (gov.uk) and local government guidelines at all times and keep and eye on our website (camc.com) for booking updates.

www.camc.com

Recommend Recommenda friend a friend Free Free £10 £10 gift gift voucher voucher with with every every friend friend * * recommendation recommendation

Free Free

£10 £10

giftgift voucher voucher

Can you add a blob before this final paragraph please and change it to the usual style we would use for a blob par (bold/italic?)

Thanks

LakeLake District District Nearest Nearest site Borrowdale site Borrowdale

camc.com/join camc.com/join *Existing *Existing members members are required are required to give to their give friend/family their friend/family consentconsent to use their to use membership their membership numbernumber to invite tothem invitetothem join the to join the Club online, Club online, on stand onor stand by phone. or by phone.

Your friend/family Your friend/family member member will need willtoneed add your to add membership your membership numbernumber into theinto paper theform paper orform or if usingifthe using online the join online form join(after formthe (after payment the payment screen)screen) to qualify to qualify for the for £10the Club £10 gift Club voucher. gift voucher.

Your £10 Your Club £10 gift Club voucher gift voucher will will then bethen automatically be automatically posted posted to you after to you their after membership their membership has been hasconfirmed. been confirmed. www.camc.com November 2016 XX

MEMBER OFFERS SPECIAL DEALS

SAVE WITH THE CLUB Membership of the Club gives you access to a host of savings from a wide variety of suppliers. Here’s just a taste – to see the full range visit camc.com/memberoffers

Check out our new member offers page with improved search facility – camc.com/ memberoffers

SAVE £25 ON CARAVAN OR MOTORHOME COVERS Protect your pride and joy from the elements with a tailor-made cover from Specialised Covers.

There is an extensive range of patterns available, and each cover offers: n Waterproof protection and breathability n Frost and UV protection n Tree sap and bird dropping protection n Three-year fabric guarantee and one-year manufacturer’s warranty Visit camc.com/specialisedcovers for more details.

Save on Better Sleep Company products 10% discount on BBL Batteries BBL Batteries is offering Club members 10% off its LiFOS 68 (equivalent useable power 120Ah) and 105 (200Ah) Advanced Lightweight Lithium Power batteries.

Designed to cope with 2,750 charge/discharge cycles (compared with a comparable lead acid batterys 400-500), the batteries can: n Operate heavy loads of up to 1000W n Be charged by regular mains chargers, vehicle alternators and solar panels Find out more at camc. com/bblbatteries.

Better Sleep Company’s tailor-made range of caravan and motorhome products includes linen, duvets, mattress protectors and toppers that are perfect for lovers of the touring lifestyle. The company is offering Club members a 10% saving on bedding and accessories. To find out more visit camc.com/bettersleep.

10% off batteries and accessories from Tayna

Leading online battery retailer Tayna Batteries offers the likes of lithium iron, lead acid, EFB and AGM batteries, as well as accessories including leads, chargers, optimisers, jump packs and jump starters.

Visit camc.com/ taynabatteries for more information.

Terms and conditions apply to all member offers – see camc.com/memberoffers for details 54 November 2020

www.camc.com

Get ready for winter Members can save up to 10% on more than 3,000 products in our Club Shop.

This month we focus on items designed to help you make the most of your winter touring experience –visit shop.camc.com and use the code CS-0218-PRIMA

Thetford Seal Lubricant

Regular maintenance helps keep your caravan or motorhome in top condition throughout the year – and can save you money in the long run. Specially designed for use on toilet seals (which can be damaged during winter), Thetford Seal Lubricant can also be used to protect and lubricate locks, hinges, awning rails, bicycles, etc.

MILENCO

Truma iNet Box The Truma iNet Box is a control unit that networks the Truma appliances in your caravan or motorhome. For example, you can use the free Truma app on your smartphone to control your Combi heater remotely (Truma iNet is now compatible with the Alde Compact 3020 HE system too)

Giant Lattice Grip Mats Parking your outfit on grip mats can help you get away with minimal fuss when ground conditions are poor.

Milenco Giant Lattice Grip Mats can be linked together to offer great traction over a large surface area.

Truma Gas Level Check It’s important to make sure you have enough gas to power your heating and hot water systems, especially during the colder months. The lightweight, robust Truma Gas Level Check uses ultrasound to detect the gas level in your bottle and features a handy, integrated LED torch (not suitable for plastic gas cylinders, refillable gas cylinders, gas tanks or butane cylinders (Campingaz)).

Information correct at time of publication. Terms and conditions apply to all Club Shop purchases – see shop.camc.com for details www.camc.com

November 2020

55

Letters CORRESPONDENCE YOUR VIEWS

Your chance to have your say. The writer of our star letter will receive copies of our three-edition overseas touring guides

Send your letters to: enquiries@camc.com or magazine@camc.com.

Please note: Star Letter prize will be posted as soon as possible.

Dale delight

STAR LETTER

WHAT A HOOT! Having been furloughed since the middle of March and then offered voluntary redundancy at the end of August (I was due to retire anyway in December, and the offer was too good to miss), and with the approval of my wife who still works, I decided to try for a last-minute booking at the nature-inspired CL featured in the September magazine – Grange Farm in Lessingham, Norfolk, run by Shon Meale.

A quick phone call secured the booking and I was away. All hail the motor mover for the solo caravanner, and coupled (excuse the pun) with a fantastic site, what could go wrong?

Well, Shon proved to be a wealth of information and showed me round the farm and pointed out his barn owl box and fields where it usually hunted each evening, and the wildlife to be found around the site.

So, as a keen photographer, armed with my camera and telephoto lens, I trained it on the exit hole in the wall and waited for the expected evening excursion, only to find in near darkness, the owl return to that hole. It had obviously departed earlier from the front of the barn!

The following night, I tried again, this time to catch it at the front.

Nothing. It had probably gone from the back. Well, I thought, I’m not playing that game.

The following night I tried a field Shon had described, only to find the bloomin’ owl at the far side of the field and never coming anywhere near! Who said never work with children and animals?

Well include birds in that.

On my final day I tried that far end of the field and, what do you know, the owl came over the hedge – one out of focus shot on the camera – and flew diagonally to the opposite corner, never to be seen again!

But where would you get the chance to even see a barn owl within metres of your front door, if not on a farm-based CL such as this? This was one of the best holidays at a CL I have ever had, in spite of the photographic failures.

Andy Cotton, via email 56 November 2020

GUESS WHO POPPED UP? My wife, Patricia, and I spent a lovely weekend in Oxfordshire, making the most of the Blenheim Palace pop-up site. Imagine our surprise when the friendly, efficient steward directing us to our pitch was none other than Club Chairman Grenville Chamberlain! It was lovely to chat for a few moments before pitching up and enjoying some refreshments as the sun set.

Mark Humphrey, via email

We felt compelled to write to let everyone at the Club know how appreciative we are of your efforts to do the right thing, especially during these difficult times.

We recently had a wonderful stay at Wharfedale Club site in Yorkshire after having to cancel our booking to go to France. We don’t feel our holiday was any less special, though, as the surrounding area of Grassington and the Yorkshire Dales are beautiful.

We felt safe with the precautions the Club has implemented regarding the use of toilet blocks and visits to the shop/reception and are impressed with how well you have treated us throughout the Covid-19 turmoil.

You have been more than fair regarding the cancellations of our foreign trips and all the staff we have spoken to have been helpful and friendly.

Thank you for the voucher scheme as well. We bought enough vouchers to cover our holidays up to Easter next year and, in doing so, saved enough to have an extra week’s stay. We are looking forward to our next trip to Exebridge Lakeside.

Maxine and Steve Churchman, via email

Borealis bother?

It has long been my ambition to use our beautiful Chausson motorhome to visit the northern lights in north Norway.

The best time of year would be February/March but those are the coldest months too. While I know we can keep the van interior nice and toasty, I am concerned that the diesel fuel in the Transit’s tank and pipes may freeze overnight. Has anyone done a similar trip and, if so, is it a problem?

Alvin Cohen, via email

Ride of hope and glory The article about cycling in the Malvern Hills [October 2020 issue] reminded me of a happy holiday when caravanning and cycling in the area.

While we were there we bought a book called Elgar the Cyclist by Kevin Allen, that said Edward Elgar was himself a keen cyclist and found lots of his musical inspiration in his beloved Malvern Hills while aided by his rhythmic pedalling along the Malvern lanes (from 1900 onwards, initially on a single, fixed-gear bicycle). Keep up your good work in these difficult times and stay safe.

Alison and Brian Forster, via email www.camc.com

Your mag needs you!

Broads appeal We recently stayed at the Norfolk Broads Club site and decided to follow the cycle route shown in the July edition of the magazine. We only have normal road bikes (not e-bikes) but there are no particularly steep hills and it was perfectly manageable. It was a lovely day out, travelling through Hickling and reaching Sea Palling via a really pretty route and quiet roads.

We stopped at Poppylands café on the way back but it was too busy so we carried on to the Horsey Windpump and bought a sandwich there instead. We then carried on and followed the route back to the site via Potter Heigham.

The only hiccup was with direction number 8, as the left-hand turn is signed ‘Byway’ (not Fritton Road) – worth noting if anyone is thinking of doing this route.

The following two days we found more delightful cycle rides by following our OS map. There are lots of lovely places to walk and cycle to from this site.

We shall certainly return.

Elizabeth Anderson, via email

Now that UK sites and Certificated Locations have re-opened, we would love to hear about your adventures! Please email us at magazine@camc. com with details about where you have been and where you are planning to visit in the future.

All Angles covered We have returned to caravanning after a gap of 20 years – we gave it up when the kids became teenagers. We always knew we would come back to it and this year seemed the perfect time.

We’ve had three lovely breaks since the beginning of July – the photos are of a CL site in Angelsey and the beautiful beach at Lligwy.

It’s everything we remember it to be and more besides, with the luxury you find in modern caravans. Just planning an autumn break, but spoilt for choice where to go?

Carol Seddon, via email Editor’s note: Welcome back Carol – let us know how you get on this autumn!

Editor’s note: We’re glad you enjoyed the cycle Elizabeth! Thanks for the note about ‘Fritton Road’. Looking at Google Maps we believe the turning is indeed on to ‘Fritton Road’, although the signpost says ‘By Road’.

THAT CAPS IT ALL! I have recently returned from a wonderful 32-night holiday in my motorhome which included staying at five different Club sites in the Gloucester and Oxford areas.

During our trip I managed to leave the water cap behind at Tewkesbury Club site and www.camc.com

only realised on arrival at Moreton-in-Marsh. I phoned Tewkesbury and was relieved to discover it had been handed in, and was then overjoyed when Dawn, the site staff member, told me she may be able to get it sent over to Moreton later in the week.

True to her word it arrived

Curtains for curtains?

three days later following a 26-mile journey and was reunited with the motorhome. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Sarah and Susie for their help at Moreton and a special thank you to Dawn at Tewkesbury for going the extra (26) miles!

It’s been great to be able to get away again. The Club sites I have visited have been well set up for distanced caravanning. One of the best aspects has been having a shower without sticking to a cold, wet curtain. Surely the present set-up should be maintained after the pandemic is over – the shower cubicles seem much roomier and it must be less trouble for all. Please no more shower curtains.

Alan Reay, via email

Melvyn Bennieston, via email November 2020 57

CORRESPONDENCE YOUR VIEWS

THANK YOU CLS!

I want to praise the fantastic CL network and the members who run them. Since lockdown ended we have only visited CLs and have socially distanced in fields [where there might be] up to four other couples or families in locations with great views, lovely walks, and inspiring places to visit.

Having already booked more weekends up until Christmas, we’d like to thank those we’ve been to who have gone the extra mile to be flexible and Covid-safe and hope more will stay open all year to recover some of their lost revenues from earlier this year. We are more than happy to support them.

Mark and Caroline, Oxfordshire

Camping spirit is alive and well I wish to make the strongest of complaints about Club members and their attitude to sites! My wife and I booked 14 nights at Lydford AS in late August/early September. We are both registered disabled and Lydford fits our needs perfectly. It is too far from the beaches and theme parks for young families and far enough away from the nightlife for older families/groups.

Up until now this has been a well-cherished secret held between a select clientele – but not this year! Packed! Not a single empty pitch for more than a day. Music and laughter throughout the day and into the evening. In other words people enjoying their holidays!

Somebody has been spreading 58 November 2020

the existence of this tranquil site.

A top-level enquiry must be held to ascertain who the culprits are and revoke their membership immediately!

But seriously, Lydford is superbly managed by the site staff and, as is usual with sites on the network, nothing is too much trouble for them. It was great to see that the spirit of camping is still alive and well too, as on arrival a chap called Steve, from the Isle of Wight, offered to help us set up and had our awning up in record time.

On our final day, again we had superb assistance in getting ready for the road – although regrettably I didnt get the person’s name.

Paul Maher, via email www.camc.com

Taking the plunge BOATER’S VIEW Being a narrowboater, I enjoyed your ‘Water Feature’ article in September’s issue of the magazine.

While I agree that Bingley Five-Rise Locks are a splendid sight, if you are staying at the Hebden Bridge site, it is really nice to take a stroll through the middle of the town on the Rochdale Canal towpath and enjoy the local scenery.

Barbara Lower, via email

www.camc.com

I have been a Club member for many years and have towed with a variety of cars and caravans from 10ft to 26ft twin-axles. A couple of years ago we thought we would do away with our twin-axle and reduce the size of the van to allow us to be a little greener.

We bought a Sprite Major 4EB which still gives us all the luxuries we need but also came in at the magic 1,500kg MTPLM mark which allowed us to buy a towcar with electric capability. We initially went for a [Mitsubishi] Outlander PHEV which performed adequately but have now taken the next step and gone 100% electric by buying a Mercedes-Benz EQC 400 Sport.

It is well built, offers great performance and is super quiet. The maximum towing weight of the EQC is 1,800kg so it pulls the single-axle Sprite with ease. I know range is a concern for many in regard to electric cars but I am averaging 240 miles solo and 100 miles towing before needing to recharge. We rarely tow more than 140 miles, so as long as we plan our stops it’s not really an issue.

Unhooking the van to charge it is not as easy as it was filling up with fossil fuel, but as a full charge at home costs just £12 it makes day-to-day driving a dream.

I know electric cars are not for everyone but one day we will all need to take the plunge and I, for one, am smitten.

Martin Evans, Gloucestershire

Gas is the answer I read John Rankins article about his new [Lexus hybrid] towcar in the September edition of the Club magazine with great excitement until he revealed the speed and distance available when running in pure electric mode.

It is my belief that without major advances in the development of hydrogen-powered family motorcars the leisure activity we all love and enjoy could become a distant memory.

The government has declared that within 15 years, new fossil fuel-propelled vehicles, along with hybrids, will no longer be available. Anyone who retains such a vehicle in order to pursue their enjoyment of touring will find it increasingly difficult to acquire the requisite fuel due to the inevitable closure of many petrol stations.

Mick Cordingley, via email November 2020 59

SPECIAL WALKING

Family focus W Jane McGowan suggests a number of ways to make walking fun for all ages

Canongate Kirkyard

60 November 2020

coloured arrows through beautiful woods and along intriguing pathways.

“Children love leading the way and it’s great to let them find the arrows or choose which way to go,” says Jen. “They will often race to find them and then run back with the information, which is great if you have kids of different ages as parents can keep to the pace of the younger one and an older child is not bored and has some responsibility.”

to the older holidaymaker. You can, for example, find out about a plethora of our country’s most famous sons and daughters on special history walks. Sir Edward Elgar is just one celebrity to whom a trail has been dedicated. One of the nation’s most celebrated composers, you can learn about his life, work and the landscape that inspired him on the Elgar Route (nearest Club site: Malvern Hills).

Taking in towns, villages and spectacular views across the magnificent Malvern Hills, the full, 37-mile trail begins at the composer’s birthplace (The Firs, in Lower Broadheath) and culminates in the city of Worcester, where the cathedral’s stunning stained glass window features a scene from St John Henry Newman’s The Dream of Gerontius, also the basis for an Elgar composition. The route leaflet, which includes suggestions for shorter walks, can be downloaded from visitthemalverns.org.

HAPPY TRAILS

Where younger children are concerned, it’s a good idea to look for tracks and trails that are both scooter and pushchair friendly – ideal if their legs tire half-way through.

The National Trust’s Blickling Estate in Norfolk (nearest Club site: Seacroft), for example, offers visitors what it describes as a ‘multi-use trail’ around the perimeter of the 500-year-old stately home.

Suitable for cycles, pushchairs etc, the weather-friendly route takes in Blickling Great Wood – which is alive with bluebells in late spring – and the striking pyramid-shaped mausoleum, built to house the remains of former owner John Hobart, the Second Earl of Buckinghamshire. According to the guide, cycling the route takes around 45 minutes, while little legs can stroll round in just under two hours. It’s dog friendly too.

SPOOKY STROLLS

WALK OF NOTE

Of course walking’s not just for kids – and there are themed rambles out there aimed at making two-legged transport more appealing

Greyfriars Bobby monument, Edinburgh

Ian Bell / Alamy

Doug Simpson / Alamy

hile theme parks, museums and other traditional family attractions may be subject to the influence of Covid-19, there is one pastime that remains on offer to ideasstrapped tourers everywhere: a good walk.

It may not send you flying through the air at 90mph or get you up close and personal with a ferocious feline, but a stroll does enable you to burn off some energy, get some fresh air and take in beautiful scenery or places of interest.

Having said all that, a walk can be a hard sell – especially where children are concerned.

But never fear, help is at hand. Jen and Sim Benson are the authors of The Adventurer’s Guide to Britain, and the forthcoming 100 Great Walks With Kids, which features a multitude of walks aimed at children aged under 12. Beginning with baby-carrier and pushchair-friendly paths, it also includes some great trails for nature-spotters, literaturelovers and even sci-fi fans.

“We have tried to make sure there is some element of adventure in every walk,” explains mum-of-two Jen. “A lot of walks feature a summit – not only is there usually a wonderful view but they can often then just run around [if safe to do so]. You can celebrate with a snack or a picnic in the knowledge that the walk home will all be downhill.”

Jen says it’s important to keep children amused throughout the expedition, highlighting waymarked walks that follow

While we may not always be able to enjoy traditional after-dark activities in our towns and cities, we can still get out and about while maintaining social distancing.

Though not always appropriate for younger children, many cities offer guided (Covid-19 restrictions will apply) or self-guided ghost tours – York and London have several marking dastardly deeds and notorious villains.

Edinburgh, too, is great for a self-guided tour.

Did you know, for example, that the name ‘Tom Riddle’ (aka Lord Voldemort), Harry Potter’s nemesis, is said to have been taken from an Edinburgh gravestone? Or that Charles Dickens was prompted to write A Christmas Carol after seeing the grave of Scottish corn merchant Ebenezer Scroggie in Canongate Kirkyard?

Other sites on a route suggested by culturetrekking.com include Greyfriars Kirkyard, the final resting place of ‘Greyfriars Bobby’ – the loyal Skye Terrier that refused to leave his owner John Gray, even after Gray had succumbed to tuberculosis. The little dog kept watch at his master’s grave – in a bed provided by the kirkyard’s gardener – until his own death some 14 years later.

So wherever you head on holiday, you can always rely on a walk to keep everyone entertained – it’s a tour within a tour!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

See camc.com for the latest site information and follow official UK Government (gov.uk) and local government advice at all times. We also recommend that you check with businesses/attractions that are featured regarding opening dates, restrictions and safety advice.

Authors Jen and Sim Benson offer their advice... n Take spare clothes – damp children are unhappy children (don’t let soggy clothes spoil your post-walk coffee) n Add some adventure – castles may contain ghosts; woods have trees to climb

n Head for somewhere where youll find water – streams and stepping stones are a big winner with kids n Have a selection of snacks on hand – children need fuel so why not treat them (and yourself) as you go

100 Great Walks With Kids by Jen and Sim Benson is published by Bloomsbury on 4 March 2021. You can pre-order at bloomsbury.com

David Gee 4 / Alamy

TOP TIPS FOR CHILD-FRIENDLY WALKS

61

ADVERTISING FEATURE CARAVAN COVER

“Second to none” Our award-winning Caravan Cover can help when things go wrong

T

Above: Kathy on a recent holiday to Scarborough; and the caravan pitched with new awning

he Club always stresses the importance of having cover in place in case something does go wrong, as members Kathy and Richard Cooper found to their benefit.

“Quite a few of your readers will sadly understand our feelings and emotions when we discovered our beloved Swift Challenger had had its door lock forced and our [Kampa] AIR awning had been stolen,” says Kathy.

“This was during the last couple of weeks of our shielding, when the caravan was stored locally.”

The caravan’s alarm was triggered, and the couple think that this scared off the thieves before any further theft could take place, as three of the screws on the cooker had been removed.

Having phoned the Club’s helpline and followed the advice they were given, the couple posted their claim on 30 July 2020, providing an estimate of the awning value, which was in pristine condition despite being nearly five years old, as well as detailing the cost of a replacement lock. Kathy continues: “Only two days later, on 1 August, we received our cheque... We were thrilled to see we’d received payment to the penny of our estimated value and repair costs.

“The exceptional speed and professionalism of your service must be second to none, and has gone a long way to getting us back on our travels secure in the knowledge that you’ve got our backs.”

TRUST YOUR CLUB

With two levels of cover available – ‘Standard’ and ‘Super’ – you can trust your Club to help if things go wrong. We can cover your caravan and equipment (including awnings and contents) at the levels you need and a number of discounts are available – for 62 November 2020

instance if you have good security devices fitted, and if you have a history of no claims.

The average claim cost in June 2020 was more than £6,000, and we pay out 96% of claims.* Our claims handling service is highly rated by those who have used it: in a November 2019 survey, the service was rated 9.1 out of 10, while in a separate Customer Satisfaction Survey from 2019 we were rated 4.95 out of 5 stars for service and resolution.

BENEFITS

We offer new-for-old cover if your caravan is stolen and not recovered or damaged beyond repair – for up to five years of age for Standard Cover, and 15 years for Super Cover. There’s cover included towards hotel accommodation costs or the hire of another caravan if your vehicle is damaged or stolen while you’re away.

What’s more, if you have Super Cover and the towing vehicle or caravan suffers an accident or breakdown, or the drivers are unable to drive, we pay (up to £3,500): n to get the vehicle to the nearest repairer n hire charges of car and/or caravan to continue the trip n storage charges while awaiting repair n rail fares to return home n the cost of returning the vehicle(s) to your home We can provide cover for accidental damage, fire, theft, vandalism, storm or flood, and awnings are included as standard. For a full list of benefits please see camc.com/caravancover, where you can also obtain a quote if required. If you would prefer to speak to our friendly, dedicated team the number is 01342 607514.

Cover wording including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon request. Caravan Cover is provided directly by the Caravan and Motorhome Club. * Based on claims data 1 July 2019-30 June 2020. www.camc.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

By Purple Line Ltd.

Confused about caravan security?

My journey of discovery in deciding which security lock for Bertie the caravan.

Marvin Foster shares his thoughts

I am affectionately termed a “newbie” in the caravan world having just bought my first van in April. We have had the most enjoyable summer visiting campsites around England that brought back memories of childhood holidays. Now it’s time for “Bertie” to hibernate for the winter and to start looking at the practical aspects of caravan ownership.

My first task was to make sure Bertie was secure during the winter months. It became very clear from the off that mechanical security is vital due to caravan thefts being on the rise and I would need to select my products carefully.

I decided that a wheel lock that not only offered a high level of security but was also easy and quick to fit from a reputable approved company would form my wish list.

Contents of the Fullstop Nemesis Ultra box Paul gave me the Nemesis Ultra to examine and instantly I felt reassured by the dual layer hardened steel body which I was informed is 4 times stronger than other similar products.

High level of security, tick.

Paul handed me the Lowe & Fletcher lock & keys (premier British lock manufacturer) and instructed me on how to fit the lock into the receiver bolt which had been fitted to the wheel of the caravan.

My first attempt was a bit of a shambles due to nerves. However within a few attempts it was as easy as locking my front door as I was able to fit the lock in under 10 seconds.

Easy and Quick to fit, tick.

CC

03

MP

V

Having a choice of products, I needed some expert advice which came in the form of Paul from my local dealership.

On hearing my request, I was swiftly taken to the Fullstop security shelf and shown the bright orange Nemesis Ultra wheel lock.

Paul informed me that the Nemesis Ultra has been the market leading wheel lock for the last 10 years with a faultless reputation.

Reputable company, tick.

SCM Approved Year warranty With every Fullstop® product

Before I could ask my final question Paul went on to inform me that the Nemesis Ultra originally had the Sold Secure Gold approval, but this was upgraded to SCM approval.

SCM is approved by Kiwa, an internationally renowned testing house which incorporates more comprehensive levels of testing including power tools, corrosion and freezing.

Security approved, tick.

With my wish list complete and on the advice of Paul the orange Fullstop Nemesis Ultra and the Saracen hitch lock were purchased.

On a parting note Paul suggested contacting my insurance company as they may offer a discount. Saving money (not on my list but thankful), tick.

Thank you, Paul & Fullstop. I am now confident that Bertie will be safe and secure in hibernation along with our future adventures.

Scan with your smartphone camera to see how easy it is to fit.

->

nemesis ULTRA

Wheel bolt receiver lock for caravans, trailers & trailer tents Patented design preventing wheel rotation and removal Ultra lightweight & slimline design for easy storage

Universal design suitable for alloy and steel wheels 8.5mm Dual-Layer hardened steel construction

motorhome hitch Year warrantylocks wheel locks With every Fullstop product ®

and more

purpleline.co.uk/security

PRACTICAL BEDDING

You can see more tips from the Club at camc.com/ advice

REST ASSURED Sammy Faircloth stresses the importance of researching the sleeping arrangements in your tourer

N

owadays, we all know how important it is to get a good night’s sleep – and the principle applies equally whether you are at home or in your camper, motorhome or caravan.

I for one actually sleep better in my caravan than I do at home –whether that’s down to the bed or that cosy feeling of being ‘away from it all’, I’m not sure, but I do know the importance of checking the sleeping arrangements when buying a new vehicle. Let’s take a closer look at the options available

LAYOUTS

Traditionally bed bases are made up from daytime seating furniture, but in recent years, ‘fixed’ (ie ready-made) 64 November 2020

A contoured pillow can help support your neck

double or single beds have become increasingly popular.

You will come across fixed ‘island’ double beds which can be easily walked around on either side; some can be retracted to provide extra living space during the day.

Similarly a ‘French’ bed (a term for a fixed double that butts up to the wall) will feature a cutaway corner for easy access around the van. The advantage of a French bed is that it saves valuable space – the disadvantage is that whoever sleeps on the wall side will have to climb over the other occupant to access the facilities at night. Finally, there are fixed singles, which we have in our Swift Conqueror 565 – they’re a winner with our children.

Motorhomes have similar bed arrangements to caravans –

although some contain a sleeping area above the cab or feature a bed that drops (manually or electronically) from the ceiling.

MATTRESSES AND TOPPERS

If you need to use daytime seating to make up your bed, be aware that a contoured sofa with a rise along the front edge (called a ‘knee roll’) doesn’t always make a flat base for sleeping at night. Similarly, a number of prominently positioned upholstery buttons can add to your discomfort. To reduce these inconveniences, some people turn the cushion bases over when converting them to bedding.

Some manufacturers include ‘sprung’ mattresses in their top-of-therange leisure vehicles, while foamfilled is the other option. Foam-filled mattresses can feel a little hard, so to www.camc.com

1

2

3

5

6

4 7

8

improve the comfort factor you could consider a mattress topper. Mattress technology has improved over the years so you will find products out there promising better levels of hygiene, airflow and support.

Companies such as Duvalay and Jonic offer various products to meet your budget, shape and size, and the touring and camping shows held throughout the year are good places www.camc.com

at which to identify which mattress or topper is best for you.

ACCESSORIES

Our son is a restless sleeper and has a habit of throwing off his covers and blocking the heating vent, which in-turn trips out the heating – no fun on a winter’s night!

I find traditional sleeping bags quite restrictive – and the zips can be a

1. When buying a vehicle, test the comfort and length of the bed 2. Fixed single beds offer a real ‘home from home’ feel 3. My son’s Duvalay sleeping bag rolls up neatly 4. Consider turning over seating cushions to create a flatter surface at night 5. National shows are great for research 6. Fixed island double beds allow access on both sides 7. A motorhome ‘over-cab’ bed 8. Away in the land of nod

nuisance. However, Duvalay has come up with a product that is a cross between a sleeping bag and a duvet, where one side remains open. It also incorporates a mattress topper for added comfort – perfect for my son.

At the end of the holiday it can be neatly rolled up and stored in its own bag.

I think it’s worth investing in a good pillow. I purchased a pocketed coil pillow at a show and take it everywhere – it never seems to lose its plumpness and really aids a restful night’s sleep.

Meanwhile, specialist contoured pillows can help support your neck and aid a restful night’s sleep.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Your holiday time is precious and the last thing you need is for your break to be ruined by a bad night. That’s why it’s important to put some research into the bedtime arrangements in your tourer. Sleep tight!

November 2020 65

ACTIVITY BREAKS RIVER WALKS

LET’S GO...

for a

RIVER

The stretch at Henley-on-Thames may be famed for boating, but Jonathan Manning discovers you can have an equally wonderful time walking alongside the river

66 November 2020

path would eventually lead via Marlow to London. But my ambitions are more modest; today’s stroll is a six-mile circuit, crossing the river at Hambleden Lock and Henley, which is accredited as a ‘Walkers are Welcome Town’.

NATURE’S WAY

The soggy condition of the footpath comes as something of a surprise given the flawless nature of the Oxfordshire town, where perfectly preserved Tudor cottages nestle next to whitewashed Georgian and Victorian homes, the finest enjoying river views. t ranges from spongy to boggy as it follows the riverbank, flanked by broadleaf trees and surveilled by fleets of red kites.

In just a few minutes the bustle of the town disappears and the route becomes deliciously lush, crowded by waist-high reeds, sedges and grasses and the dying embers of rarer wild flowers. Sleeper bridges cross streams and channels, keeping feet dry across a landscape that acts as a floodplain when the river level rises. To the left a flash of red reveals Fawley Court, a striking stately home boasting the double whammy of design by Sir Christopher Wren in grounds landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown.

The riverside path is an altogether rougher affair, slowly diverging from the river behind a curtain of trees.

Only the splash of oars and low thrum of motor cruisers break the peace, until traffic noise starts to intrude.

A wiggle of footpaths and permissive paths across the Culden Faw Estate lead briefly away from the road before descending back to Hambleden Lock and weir; the lock keeper tells me that it takes about six minutes www.camc.com

VisitBritain

S

urely there’s nothing quite as relaxing as a river walk. The water acts as both a handrail for navigation and a stage for entertainment, while level towpaths mean no hills to worry about. The only challenge is to find a stretch of river with footpaths on either side and bookended by bridges, to create a loop rather than a linear ramble.

All of which brings me to Henley Four Oaks Club site at Henley-on-Thames in the heart of rowing country. Sir Steve Redgrave, Sir Matthew Pinsent and James ‘Strictly’ Cracknell OBE are among the Olympic gold medal-winning heroes who honed their skills at this watery training ‘ground’, and in town there’s no shortage of broad-shouldered young men and women in hoodies and shorts.

As I take my first steps downstream, the first crew glides by like clockwork, their oars entering, pulling then leaving the water in perfect synchronisation, marshalled by a tiny cox. I’m on the north bank of the Thames, heading downstream, and, were I to keep walking, Forrest Gump-style, the

VisitBritain

WALK IMPORTANT INFORMATION

“

As I take my first steps downstream, the first crew glides by like clockwork

CasarsaGuruGetty

�

See camc.com for the latest site information and follow official UK Government (gov.uk) and local government advice at all times.

Please check with venues mentioned in advance with regard to any restrictions and opening times. n visit-henley.com n Stay at: Henley Four Oaks Club site

www.camc.com

November 2020 67

ACTIVITY BREAKS RIVER WALKS Clockwise from main: walkway at Hambleden Weir; Fawley Court; Temple Island

BOOK

RIVER ON TH E RAMBLES A PP THREE MORE WATERSIDE WALKS TO ENJOY… Llangollen Canal, Denbighshire Technically this is a canal rather than a river walk, but it is directly accessible on foot from the Club site and truly spectacular as it crosses the River Dee via ace engineer Thomas Telford’s towering Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Info: canalrivertrust. org.uk Stay: Lady Margaret’s Park Club site River Ouse, Yorkshire As arteries of business and trade, rivers lie at the heart of the UK’s major cities. Paths on both sides of the River Ouse let walkers explore the heart of York from the Club site, with the castle and cafés providing value-added towpath diversions.

Info: visityork.org Stay: York Rowntree Park Club site River Tees, County Durham There’s entertainment aplenty, either as spectator or participant, at the Tees Barrage International White Water Centre at Stockton-on-Tees. The Club site is on the doorstep, and for a longer walk follow the Tees downstream to the famous Transporter Bridge.

Info: tbiwwc.com Stay: White Water Park Club site Please check with all venues in advance with regard to opening and other restrictions 68 November 2020

for the lock to fill once the gates are shut, and I watch a boat rise magically before crossing the fast-flowing weir via a lengthy walkway.

END WITHIN REACH

The transformation on the south side of the river is marked, as the Thames Path National Trail takes responsibility for walkers. From here back to Henley the path is dry and hard-packed or asphalted, leaving my eyes free to gaze across the river instead of at the ground below. This is Henley Reach, an arrow-straight stretch of water which extends for one mile and 550 yards from Temple Island all the way to Henley. It’s also the course that hosted the first Oxford-Cambridge boat race in 1828 and the Olympics in both 1908 and 1948. In non-Covid years, hundreds of crews from around the world come here to race during the world-famous regatta, a Pimm’s and fizz-fuelled five-day carnival of summer fun embellished by brightly-coloured boating blazers.

The event reminds me of the scene in Jerome K Jerome’s Three Men in a Boat, when the trio are struggling to find a room for the night due to the crowds. One suggests walking to Henley and assaulting a policeman in order to get locked up and sleep in the local nick. “But then there was the thought, ‘Suppose he only hits us back and refuses to lock us up!’”

Today (mid-September) there’s only a handful of walkers in casual T-shirts strolling the towpath as crews in international vests flex their muscles in seamless harmony. Moored along the banks is

a variety of narrowboats, converted barges and fibreglass cruisers, ranging from hippyish to Lottery-winner bling. In their own way they all buy into the philosophy of Ratty from Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows: “There is nothing — absolutely nothing — half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats”.

Posters pinned to trees reveal that it costs £10 per night for a watery pitch, but it’s the positivity of the boats’ names that really catches my eye.

Some refer to exotic locations (Orinoco, Timbuktu, Kathmandu), allude to Edens (Elysium, Nirvana, Hunky Dory) or promote motivational messages (Buenos Tiempos, Carpe Diem, Seas the Day). I don’t spy any boats called ‘Cabin Fever’ or ‘Liquid Asset’, but I do smile at a scarlet-hulled launch called Le Ketchup. Given that the boats are no more than caravans and motorhomes with added seasickness, it’s puzzling why more campers don’t personalise their vans!

As the path returns to Henley I pass a couple of boat houses, including the mighty Leander Club, before crossing a stone arched bridge into the town centre. A left turn leads to the fascinating River & Rowing Museum, with its vessels and memorabilia, before I weave back through the streets and past the Brakspear Brewery on the way back to the Club site.

www.camc.com

www.camc.com

November 2016 XX

CYCLING RUTLAND

Chase

ace THE

IMPORTANT INFORMATION See camc.com for the latest site information and follow official UK Government (gov.uk) as well as local government guidelines at all times. We also recommend that you check with businesses/ attractions that are listed regarding opening dates/ restrictions.

70 November 2020

A

ny cycling route in the vicinity of Rutland Water that seeks to compete with the trails and views around the reservoir needs a few aces up its sleeve. The man-made lake is a hub of outdoor activity, with great biking opportunities for all levels of riders, but this route has more than enough attractions to lure cyclists away to the peaceful roads of attractive Rutland – the smallest county in England – and turn a 25-mile ride into a full day out.

Within a few miles the route passes Hambleton Bakery, a winner of ITV’s Britain’s Best Bakery award.

The pecan buns, bathed in toffee caramel, would be the highlight of any ride, so it’s well worth a pit-stop.

Just up the road is Barnsdale Gardens, a greenfingered hub featuring 38 individual gardens. From a Japanese garden to a rose garden, fruit orchard, allotment and first-time garden, there’s an abundance of ideas for anyone with an inkling that they would like to get a bit of mud under their fingernails.

Jonathan Manning discovers that England’s smallest county has some big surprises up its sleeve on this attraction-packed route

Alternatively, for riders who prefer fauna to flora, just along the road is the Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre, with 42 acres of woodland walks and an extended family of birds of prey, including hawks, owls, eagles and vultures.

Pedalling on, the route passes Rocks by Rail (closed due to Covid-19 until Easter 2021), a celebration of heavy industry set in a quarry. In normal times, a heritage steam railway usually chuffs through the site, while there’s an ironstone museum and a 1960s-style café.

For cyclists who just want to ride, the siren call of a fine tea room at the foot of Wymondham Windmill is hard to resist. This is a very popular stopping point for riders from all around the local area, with lovely lawns to laze on if the sun is out, and the added bonus of a first-class bike shop virtually next door in case any running repairs are required.

Throughout the route the roads are quiet, the countryside rolls, and red kites and buzzards are a common sight. All-in-all, the ride is a compelling alternative to defaulting to Rutland Water every time you hop on a saddle. www.camc.com

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

© Crown copyright 2020 Ordnance Survey Media 051/18

Wymondham Windmill

Barnsdale Gardens

1

5

2

6

3

7

4

8

DIRECTIONS Turn left out of the entrance to Rutland Caravan and Camping, ride to the end of the drive and then turn right along Thistleton Lane. Continue to a T-junction then turn right towards Greetham, Cottesmore and Oakham. Continue through Greetham and about 750m after leaving the village look for a turn on the left.

4.7km – Turn left, signposted to Exton. In 1.3km, turn left at a T-junction, passing Hambleton Bakery on the left. Continue for 2km to reach Barnsdale Gardens on the right. Stay on this road until the next right turn.

8.9km – Turn right, signposted to Burley and Langham. Pass Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre on the left, and continue to a T-junction by a water tower.

Turn right, signposted to Greetham and Grantham, and keep going (there’s a cycle path on the left of the road) until Cottesmore. Look out for the first turn on the left.

13.6km – Turn left in Cottesmore, signposted to Ashwell and Market Overton, and then in 100m take the second left, signposted to Ashwell. Pass Rocks by Rail on the right and continue to a crossroads in Ashwell. www.camc.com

ABOUT THE ROUTE Start/finish: Rutland Affiliated Site, Park Lane, Greetham, Oakham LE15 7FN. Distance: 25 miles/40km.

Time: 2.5 hours.

Level: Suitable for all cyclists.

There are no significant hills and the roads are quiet.

Terrain: Asphalt all the way.

Landscape: Arable fields, dense hedgerows and pretty stone villages.

Refreshments: Hambleton Bakery, Exton; Barnsdale Gardens teashop; Rutland Falconry and Owl Centre cafe; Rock and Rail cafe; Berkeley Arms, Wymondham; Wymondham Windmill Tea Rooms; Blue Dog Inn, Sewstern.

DOWNLOAD THIS ROUTE AND OTHERS TO YOUR GPS DEVICE FROM OUR STRAVA PAGE AT STRAVA. COM/ATHLETES/27202656

17.2km – Turn right at the crossroads, signposted to Teigh and Wymondham. Stay on this road, passing Teigh (on the left) and Edmondthorpe (on the right) to reach a T-junction in Wymondham. Turn left towards Village Centre and Windmill and in 150m turn right just before the Berkeley Arms. Climb the hill, past the Windmill Tea Rooms on the left, and continue to a turn on the right.

23.9km – Turn right, signposted to Coston, and in 200m turn right again, signposted to Sewstern. In 1.5km, turn left at a T-junction on a bend and continue to a crossroads in Sewstern.

29km – Turn right at the crossroads, signposted to Thistleton. Continue on this road, passing through Thistleton, and about 500m after leaving the village look out for a turn on the right to Stretton and A1. Turn right and continue for almost 2km. As the road bends to the left, look out for a turn on the right.

36.9km – Turn right, signposted to Cottesmore and Greetham. Continue along this road, following a right angle bend next to an army base, and then look out for Park Lane on the right which leads back to the campsite.

November 2020 71

Easy TEST RENAULT KADJAR S EDITION BLUE DCI 115

Lesley Harris finds Renaults mid-sized SUV a comfortable drive

does it

T

he Kadjar is a mid-sized family SUV which nestles between the smaller Captur and larger Koleos in Renault’s range. At first glance it appears to be pretty much everything a practical SUV should be but how does it fare against rivals in the class? I put the 1.5-litre, S Edition Blue dCi 115 through its paces to find out.

COMFORT In 2018 the Kadjar had a very slight facelift, which incorporated a few exterior tweaks, interior upgrades and engine updates. The exterior – which was already more fluid and stylish than its boxy Nissan Qashqai cousin – has new front and rear LED indicators, a revamped bumper with chrome detailing and rectangular LED fog lights.

There are just four trim levels – Play, Iconic, S Edition and GT Line – with climate control, cruise control with speed limiter, rear parking sensors and a 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration all standard across the range. Iconic trim benefits from rear camera, lane departure warning and sat-nav, while our S Edition gets a fixed glass panoramic sunroof and front and rear skid plates, giving it a more rugged look. You’ll have to fork out for the top-spec GT Line if you want blind-spot warning, leather upholstery, hands-free parking and heated seats.

The interior isn’t what you would call eyecatching but it’s well laid out, with some nice soft-touch materials, and smart blue stitching gives it a lift. The climate control dials feature

72 November 2020

smart digital read-outs, and are clear and easy to use. Renault has done away with physical buttons for the multimedia screen.

The touchscreen looks nice but isn’t as user friendly as some rivals’, with shortcut keys strangely located on the passenger side.

That said, it’s easy to operate and smartphone mirroring is standard across the range.

The faux leather seats are well bolstered and really rather comfortable. But although there is manual height and lumber adjustment, I felt I was perched too high on even the lowest setting.

The glovebox and large central cubby offer decent amounts of storage space but, disappointingly, the door bins are small and the tiny cup holders are precariously positioned between the central armrest and the gear lever.

Passengers in the back enjoy plenty of leg and headroom. The transmission tunnel is fairly small but three adults sitting abreast might feel a little squashed.

Isofix fixings are located on both outer seats, and the pull-down armrest features two small cup holders. Meanwhile, there are enough charging points to keep everyone’s devices topped up.

DRIVING This 1.5-litre engine puts out 113bhp – it’s not going to set any pulses racing but the Kadjar is a decent, car to drive. Our six-speed manual kept up with

www.camc.com

“

Passengers in the back enjoy plenty of leg and headroom

”

www.camc.com

November 2020 73

TEST RENAULT KADJAR S EDITION BLUE DCI 115

TECHNICAL

Price as tested

£28,435 Insurance

Group 17 Clockwise from left: comfortable cabin – but mind those cupholders; supportive seats; plenty of legroom...;... and bootspace

Club insurance

The Club’s Car Insurance is guaranteed to beat your renewal premium by at least £25*.

Engine

1,461cc, 4-cyl, diesel, in-line Power

113bhp (84kW) @3,750rpm Torque

260Nm (192lb ft) @2,000rpm Transmission

6-speed manual Spare wheel

Inflation kit Kerbweight

1,428kg Gross vehicle weight

motorway traffic nicely and cruised easily at 70mph.

However, lift off slightly and it loses pace quickly, meaning you have to work the gearbox to regain momentum. (Renault also offers a seven-speed auto). The ride is comfortable and the suspension does a good job of absorbing most lumps and bumps. Driving in town is a doodle, thanks to the light steering, high driving position and great all-round visibility, while on twistier roads the Kadjar does a good job of keeping itself in check, and there’s surprisingly very little body roll when cornering.

TOWING

A pull-cord in the boot deploys the towbar but sadly it took three people to work out how to operate it, with the handbook offering no clues. Brute force is needed – give the cord a really good yank and the bar drops down.

The boot is a good, square shape and is a decent size at 472-litres (rising to 1,478 litres with seats folded). The

seats fold easily courtesy of handy levers, creating a flat load-bay, and, with no lip, sliding luggage in is easy. There’s also stowage space under the floor. n Note: as a suitable caravan was not available on this occasion, our tester was unable to assess the Kadjar’s towing capabilities.

VERDICT The Kadjar is a good, all-round family SUV that is practical and prioritises comfort. Those who tow more often may find the GT Line, available with a more powerful 1.7-litre engine and four-wheel drive, more suitable.

We guarantee to beat your insurance renewal premium by £25*. See camc.com/insurance or call 0345 504 0334 to get your quote

*Premium Saving Guarantee. Subject to proof of existing renewal, including cover and price (eg a copy of your renewal notice), when cover is on a like-for-like basis. Please note, terms and conditions, eg excess(es), may vary from your current insurer. Courtesy car is subject to availability. Subject to terms and conditions and the Insurer’s acceptance of the Risk. The Club’s Car 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.

XX 74 November 2019 2020

Gross train weight

3,328 kg Noseweight limit

75kg Towing equipment

Retractable towbar (£600) Tank/econ

With thanks to Chichester Caravans, Uckfield, for the loan of Towcar Test caravans. See chichester-caravans.co.uk, call 01825 764151 or email uckfield@chichester-caravans.co.uk

1,978kg

12gals (55 litres)/ 51.5mpg solo CO2

136g/km

RATINGS

86%

COMFORT

82%

DRIVING

www.camc.com

www.camc.com

November 2016 XX

TEST COACHMAN ACADIA 830 XCEL

Big and

Well-equipped kitchen has plenty of storage

BEAUTIFUL Rob McCabe takes a look at a five-berth from Coachman that combines quality and space

I

t’s not so long ago that 7½ft was the magic number in terms of caravan width, but now eight is great. These extra-broad beasts are big sellers and Coachman did well last year with its opulent Laser Xcel eight-footers. As a result the Hull manufacturer has added three new Xcels to its recently introduced Acadia range for 2021, all twin-axles and all just an inch shy of 26ft long. Two of the three feature an L-shape lounge and huge wraparound centre dinette, resulting in one of the most eye-catching caravan living spaces in years. It’s one of these – the five-berth, twin-fixed-bunk Acadia 830 Xcel – that is getting its first test here.

76 November 2020

BUILD QUALITY

Pretty much every brand-new British caravan is superbly put together. They’re all built using a variety of advanced construction techniques with minute production tolerances and the Acadia is no exception to that very welcome rule – extremely pleasing on the eye, and to the touch. www.camc.com

“

Wow! It’s hard not to make that your first word when you step on board for the first time

Spacious central dinette

”

Coachman should be a big friendly giant on tow – two axles bring a great feeling of security and stability, and the ATC trailer control system is there to keep a watchful eye on things.

I can’t imagine many of these being sold without a mover being specified. Any kind of person-powered manoeuvring when unhitched is… well, rather you than me.

DAYTIME

Plush upholstery

L-shaped lounge features useful shelf and low-level locker It’s inside where you’re likely to pick up on little details that can disappoint or delight; and it’s very much the latter with this splendidly finished example. You’ll see proper dovetail joints when you open the drawers, and last-a-lifetime metal supports for the shelves inside the lockers. The quality of the carpentry is first-class, as are the materials used. It all gives you a feeling that you’re being properly looked after.

Wow! It’s hard not to make that your first word when you step on board for the first time. The L-shape seating is actually proper ‘seating’ in its entirety – no token upholstered perches here. It’s enticingly comfortable too, with plenty of plump bolsters and scatter cushions at your disposal.

Things are hardly less plump in the opulent, U-shaped side dinette with its continental-style, hefty table fixed permanently in place. With a family of four or five on board, it means you can all spread out at mealtimes – catering for five in the front lounge would be a tall order anyway, even with the freestanding table in play.

It’s the bit along by the nearside front window that’s devoid of seating. Instead you get a useful expanse of shelf, which includes a cable/plug tidy running through to the locker underneath, where a mains socket and other TV connections live. A compact DVD/Blu-ray player will easily fit in here too, helping to keep the whole area neat and uncluttered.

The entry-level Vision and mid-range Pastiche both made way for the streamlined Acadia line-up last year, but there’s no doubt that the Acadia is more Pastiche than Vision. For example, the ATC system and desirable Alde wet central heating/hot water system are both standard, and all the windows apart from in the kitchen

TECHNICAL

Price as tested

£28,185 Beds

Front double: 6ft 5in x 5ft 8in (or two singles: 6ft 5in x 2ft 5in and 5ft 8in x 2ft 3in) Centre single: 6ft 1in x 3ft 4in Two fixed bunks: 6ft 5in x 2ft 3in Heating

Alde central heating Fridge/freezer

Dometic 133-litre fridge-freezer Toilet

Thetford electric flush MRO

1,650kg (32.48cwt) MTPLM

1,820kg (35.83cwt) User payload

170kg (3.35cwt) Overall length

25ft 11in (7.90m) Overall width

8ft 0in (2.44m) Overall height

8ft 8in (2.65m) Max headroom

6ft 5in (1.95m) Figures from manufacturers literature

Double bunks

TOWING

The 830 weighs 1,650kg unladen, so only the beefiest of tow vehicles need apply – and, as with every eight-footer, careful route planning will sometimes be in order. I’d be interested to know how many buyers of these extra-wide tourers won’t be planning many routes at all, choosing instead to use them almost like static caravans by siting them on seasonal pitches and taking to the road very infrequently.

Chunky car and wide-open routes sorted, the www.camc.com

Bed make-up is straightforward

November 2020 77

TEST COACHMAN ACADIA 830 XCEL

and washroom are served by pleated blinds. Mind you, the Xcels are all at least £3,870 more than the ‘regular’ Acadias so you probably should expect a nice equipment roster for your over-£28k outlay.

It’s good to see a sunroof above the lounge that opens wide to let the sky in – a lot of new caravans now have an elongated skylight that opens only slightly, which just isn’t the same.

NIGHT-TIME

There are five beds – three that need making up and two fixed bunks. The bunks are just brilliant (the upper one being weight-limited) and both get their own window – although there’s nowhere to put stuff, not even a little pouch on the wall for a pair of specs.

At a mighty 6ft 5in long and a generous 2ft 3in wide, they’ll certainly see out childhood, and the lower one will accommodate an adult in fine style.

So too will the bed that results from lowering the centre dinette table. Although not listed as such, this giant single could accommodate two, albeit in a cosy kind of way. Admirably, the upholstery sections that combine to make up the mattress do so in a tight, precise fashion that means no gaps and no irritating, unwanted movement during the night. There’s no privacy at all for the occupant of this bed though. Not an issue for many, but not every teenager will be filled with joy at effectively having to share mum and dad’s bedroom.

The bunks both have full-length curtains.

The big, extremely comfy double up front is also a good, tight fit when made up. You can dispense with the upholstery shuffling and have two singles – although one tops out at 5ft 8in, so isn’t a realistic option for everybody.

KITCHEN

Keen cooks will be happy with what’s on offer in this handsome facility. You get the full works of dual-fuel hob, separate grill and oven and a low-level, fitted microwave. The elegant built-in tower fridge is a sensible size for a family caravan, and with the mix of overhead lockers, drawers and cupboards – one of which is absolutely huge – there’s plenty of storage. There’s decent work surface, although you can never have too much of it when catering for a family, so the centre dinette table just opposite will be worth its weight in gold come serving-up time.

Above: sink or art installation?

Left: smart shower set-up RATINGS

exhibit. With a couple of modest-sized cupboards and a bit of shelving, it’s not exactly over-endowed with storage options, but the big shower cubicle caters well for the family’s gels and shampoos.

94%

BUILD QUALITY

90%

TOWING

LIGHTING

96%

DAYTIME

88%

NIGHT-TIME

93%

KITCHEN

89%

WASHROOM

92%

LIGHTING

92%

OVERALL

The usual bewildering permutations are yours – and the LED strips on the undersides of the overhead lockers in the kitchen and side dinette are dimmable over a wide range, giving you even more choice when setting the mood for the evening.

You get four reading lights in the lounge (even though three would have covered the bases), roof-level illumination along most of the length of the caravan and, in the washroom, a full house of roof light, shower lamp and attractive backlighting at the pull of a cord.

With thanks to:

VERDICT This is not a cheap family caravan but you do get a heck of a lot for your outlay – including a tremendous living space.

And with four of the five beds being adult-friendly, it could be an Xcel-lent long-term proposition.

Vehicle supplied for testing by Coachman Caravan Company, Amsterdam Road, Sutton Fields Industrial Estate, Hull HU7 0XF (coachman.co.uk, 01482 839737)

WASHROOM

There’s an air of sophistication in this spacious end washroom, with its cool, restrained décor, radiator/towel rail and sculpted washbasin which, with the lights on, takes on something of the appearance of a gallery

You can cover this caravan with the Club for £397.75* per year. See camc.com/caravancover or call 01342 336610 for further details

*Based on standard new-for-old cover, cover limit of £28,500 (caravan and equipment), £500 contents cover and £100 voluntary excess. Includes 4 + years no claims discount (not protected).

Includes security discounts of 15% for Al-Ko ATC and 10% for alarm with tilt sensor. Legal protection is an optional extra charged at £9.75 for the year. Subject to underwriting – a copy of the cover wording, including benefits, limitations and exclusions that apply, 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.

78 November 2020

www.camc.com

Caravan Cover when you need it

Over

96% of claims paid*

Our award winning Caravan Cover is here for you when you need it. And coming from your Club, with over 45 years of customer service and expertise, you can relax and make sure your holiday is one to remember.**

BEST CARAVAN COVER PROVIDER

WINNER 2019

Get yourself award winning cover visit camc.com/caravancover or call 01342 488 338 for a quote today.

Protection provided directly by your Club. This is promotional information only and a sample policy wording including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon request.

Terms and conditions apply. **We have been covering members’ caravans since 1972. *We pay out 96% of claims: Based on claims data 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019.

TEST WILDAX SOLARIS XL

SOLAR

FLAIR

Nick Harding looks at a van conversion that can happily cater for four

W

est Yorkshire-based WildAx is one of a select band of specialist van converters here in the UK. Part of the influential French Rapido Group since 2017, it typically sells its products directly to the public, but also has a small dealer network. The Solaris XL on test here has been

80 November 2020

its best-selling model for some years, and is unusual in that it’s a full four-berth, without featuring a pop-top or extra-high roof. It has an unusual floorplan, too, with two bunk beds, rear washroom, nearside kitchen and four individual seats for travel/lounging.

On-the-road prices start at £54,995 for 2021, although here we take a look at a 2020 model that was on sale at Berkshire-based dealer Southern Motorhomes for £54,675. www.camc.com

From top: the Solaris XL looks great from the off; Citroën cab; a range of upholstery options is available; with rear doors open

WildAx offers a choice of 10 exterior colours, including one pearlescent (red) and four metallics, of which the Lake Blue seen here is one. WildAx tops all this off with alloy wheels.

Inside, the furniture has a solid feel to it, the upperlevel lockers featuring tambour doors. There are acrylic surrounds to the living quarters windows, which should make them easy to keep clean. Unsure about the internal colour scheme? WildAx can offer a plethora of upholstery options (at around £900 extra).

TECHNICAL

DRIVING

Torque

Based on the evidence of this example, the driving environment is a hushed one (again, credit to WildAx’s conversion work). Power comes from the Citroën Relay's more-than-adequate 2.2-litre, 140bhp HDi engine, with six-speed manual transmission. If you want automatic, the Solaris XL is available on Fiat’s Ducato – it’s a £2,600 extra option, the engine again boasting 140bhp.

In terms of the Citroën, safety/security features include ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the usual immobiliser. For optimum security, you might want to consider a Category 1 alarm (£450). Also, because of the seating configuration, a second sliding door is a possibility at £350.

As standard, the Solaris cab features plenty of ‘nice stuff’, such as the leather steering wheel and gear knob, DAB stereo, sat-nav, reversing camera and four rear parking sensors. Remis cab blinds are here too for the windscreen and side windows – and you also get thermal screen panels.

WildAx says automatic air conditioning (£700) is a popular option. The Solaris is also pre-wired for a solar panel (the panel itself, at 120W, is a further £500), while other conversion extras include the likes of an awning (£900), 19in TV with bracket (£495), double bike rack (£495) and towbar (£495).

Price as tested

£54,675 OTR Engine

2.2-litre Euro 6.2 Power

140bhp (104kW) @ 3,750rpm 251lb ft (340Nm) @ 1,750rpm Transmission

Six-speed manual, FWD MRO

3,125kg (61.51cwt) MTPLM

3,500kg (68.89cwt) User payload

375kg (7.38cwt) Overall length

20ft 10in (6.36m) Overall width (exc mirrors)

6ft 9in (2.05m) Overall height

9ft (2.75m) Max internal height

6ft 1in (1.86m) Fuel/tank/econ

Diesel/19.8gals (90 litres)/30-34mpg Figures from manufacturers literature

DAYTIME

BUILD QUALITY

Flush-fitting side windows – all openable – are the first indicator that this is a premium product.

Underneath, the fresh and waste water tanks are bigger than many, each holding 100 litres. Fully insulated, also with heating for extremes of cold, their location means they don’t impinge on interior storage. Ditto for the permanent gas tank, also tucked underneath. www.camc.com

With two tables and no fewer than three table ‘slots’, you’re spoilt for choice in normal daytime mode. Do note the cab and rear seats are at different heights, though, and with the former fully swivelled your legs are likely to dangle (despite the fact they are adjustable). As an alternative, you can make an inward-facing settee, with a commendably high backrest, along the offside.

You’ll certainly enjoy good views out of the windows, and there will always be the temptation to throw back the sliding door when weather conditions allow.

NIGHT-TIME

Both featuring metal frames with wooden slats, those bunks are an impressive 6ft 8in long. The upper one is hinged so it can be locked in a nearly-upright position to make the whole rear area seem much roomier in daytime mode.

Vehicle supplied for testing by Southern Motorhome Centre, Brickfields Industrial Estate, Kiln Lane, Bracknell RG12 1NA Contact: southern motorhomes.co.uk November 2020 81

TEST WILDAX SOLARIS XL

Clockwise from top: bunk beds with washroom to the right; Dometic toilet and fixed basin; the lounge double bed

RATINGS

84%

BUILD QUALITY

78%

DRIVING

75%

DAYTIME

79%

NIGHT-TIME

87%

KITCHEN

78%

WASHROOM

79%

DETAILS

80%

OVERALL

Each has its own locker (again with tambour door) at its foot as well as a fabric pouch, plus generous lighting provision (there is a reading lamp as well as two downlighters per bed).

The main bed, though, is the transverse double made up from all the lounge seating (but not the swivelled cab seats). There’s some metal framework to drop in after you’ve folded the two rear seats flat. It’s a decent enough size, at 5ft 11in x 4ft 3in but, of course, it cuts across the sliding door. I would consider a mattress topper if you want a softer sleeping surface.

KITCHEN

Few van conversions can offer as large a kitchen area as this. It’s still fairly uncommon to provide a full cooker like the Thetford Caprice with four gas rings, separate oven and grill plus a floor-level pan store, as here – let alone place it in the very centre of the worktop. You will need to close the lid to add the drainer when you’re washing up, but there’s a helpful section of permanent worktop to the right of the cooker.

Kitchen storage includes three overhead lockers, four drawers to the right of the cooker and two lockers to the left. A further two, gloss-finish doors between the washroom and kitchen open to reveal a wardrobe (where you’ll also find the Truma iNet box, TV aerial control and two table legs) and a lower locker which also houses a waste bin. Across the galley, the microwave oven is standard, bringing the Solaris XL’s inventory up to something you’re more likely to get in a coachbuilt. It’s not often you get anything as large as the 141-litre fridge in a van conversion, either.

WASHROOM

There’s a space-saving tambour-door entrance to the washroom, where WildAx has squeezed in a Dometic swivel-bowl toilet, a shower on a riser bar and a fixed basin, the latter set in front of an illuminated alcove.

As well as a deep shower tray (admittedly with just one plughole) and a fixed rail for hanging wet clothing

and so on (that extends across the back wall), handy details include a mug and holder, mirror, rooflight and toilet roll holder.

DETAILS

Opening and closing the various drawers and lockers is enough to convince you this is a well-built conversion. Indeed, all-round storage is very good, with WildAx seemingly never missing an opportunity to add more in terms of fabric pockets.

Truma’s Combi 4E boiler for heating and hot water comes with iNet as standard, while items ranging from an electric slide-out step and flyscreen at the sliding door to smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are on the initial inventory.

Little downsides? The gas isolator switches are neatly housed, but they’re not easily accessible at the back of the kitchen floor locker. And the carpet sections tend to curl up at the edges, potentially impeding the opening of floor lockers etc.

VERDICT

A well fitted-out, extra-long van conversion that really can cater for families of four. As well as bunk beds, you get a great kitchen and a decent washroom.

You can insure this motorhome with the Club for £678.42* per year. Please see camc.com/insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for further details

* Quote (correct up to 17 September 2020) is for the model tested worth £54,675 with factory-fitted alarm and immobiliser. Based on 55-year-old male living in Sheffield, 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, 3,000 miles a year, with £250 damage, fire and theft excess. Vehicle must have a factory-fitted alarm and immobiliser. 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.

82 November 2020

www.camc.com

EM303 Easy Wind EM303 Easy Wind EM303 Easy Wind isisthe TheEasy-wind Eas Easy-wind rollerengagement engagement the The Eas roller

The Easmanual-engage Easy-wind roller engagement is the It easiest systemavailable. available. easiest manual-engage system It easiest manual-engage system available.

It offersFULL FULLadjustment adjustmentto tothe thetyre tyretread treadand and offers offers FULL adjustment to the tyre tread and pressureand andisissuitable suitablefor forALL ALLlarge largesingle single pressure pressure and is& suitable ALLtwin-axle large single axlecaravans caravans mediumfor sized up axle & medium sized twin-axle axle caravans & medium sized twin-axleup up to1800kg.

1800kg.(Flat (FlatSWL SWL2250kg) 2250kg) to to 1800kg. (Flat SWL 2250kg)

EM305 Electric Twin EM305 Electric EM305 Electric Twin Axle Axle you are are looking looking to move move mountains mountains this is is IfIf you to this If you are looking move mountains the mover for you. you.to Suitable for large large this is the mover for Suitable for the mover for you.

Suitable for large single-axle and and large large twin-axle twin-axle caravans caravans up single-axle up single-axle and large twin-axle caravans up to 2000kg.

2000kg. (Flat (Flat SWL SWL 2450kg) 2450kg) to to 2000kg. (Flat SWL 2450kg)

EM303A Electric Engage EM303A Electric Engage Possibly the world’s Possibly most popular

Possibly the world’s mostmover. popular electric-engage caravan Suitable for electric-engage electric-engage caravan mover.

Suitable for large single-axle and medium size twin-axle large single-axle and medium size twin-axle large single-axle and medium size twin-axle up to to 1800kg. (Flat (Flat SWL 2250kg) 2250kg) up up to 1800kg.

1800kg. (Flat SWL SWL 2250kg)

EM306 EM306 Finding Finding Level Level FROM UNHITCH UNHITCH TO TO LEVEL LEVEL FROM PITCH IN IN MINUTES MINUTES PITCH The first completely automatic caravan

The The first completely automatic caravan mover and and self self levelling levelling system. system. The The mover mover Finding Level Level come come complete complete with with an an Finding Finding electric engage engage EMOVE EMOVE caravan caravan mover mover with with electric electric all season cover, heavy duty electric corner all all season cover, heavy duty electric corner steadies, control box and handset steadies, steadies, control box and handset

• Modular System, Single, Twin Axle or Quad Modular System, System, Single, Single, Twin Twin Axle Axle or or Quad Quad ••Modular • All Season Covers protect your mover from the elements • All Season Covers protect your mover from the the elements elements • All Season Covers protect your mover from • Nationwide Engineer Network Nationwide Engineer Engineer Network Network ••Nationwide

As one one of of Europes Europes leading leading caravan caravan As As one manufacturers, of Europes leading caravan mover mover manufacturers, mover manufacturers, we are so confident that you’ll love our we are are so so confident confident that that you’ll you’ll love love our our we products that we offer products that we offer products that we offerguarantee a a5 5 year year ‘no ‘no quibble’ quibble’ guarantee a 5 year ‘no quibble’ guarantee

www.leisurewizeaccessories.com www.leisurewizeaccessories.com

PRACTICAL Q&A

ASK YOUR CLUB Electric avenues

The Club’s technical team answers your pressing questions

Q A

What issues should I consider before buying an e-bike?

Electric bikes or ‘e-bikes’ are great. Using one is not ‘cheating’ – they’re a fantastic way of making cycling more viable, for example if you’re not the most regular cyclist, or not the fittest. You’ll still end up pedalling enough to get some exercise, but if the motor gets you farther and up more hills than you’d otherwise manage, or importantly if it makes a trip by bike feasible when it otherwise wouldn’t be, then that’s a real benefit. There are some factors to consider, though.

Cost: You’re buying a bike plus an electric drive system, and that adds up. If you choose the cheapest models, it’s often the bike parts that are compromised. Make sure you’re happy with the quality of components like wheels, brakes and gears. Compare them with those on standard bikes.

Weight: Adding a motor and battery inevitably adds weight. That’s another reason to check for good brakes, but it’s also worth considering if you need to lift bikes on and off a cycle carrier. A higher price will sometimes equate to a lighter bike.

Transportation: Housing large, relatively heavy, expensive bikes (or more likely two of them) will always be challenging for caravanners or motorhomers. Make sure you can lift them onto a rack – roof racks or high-mounted carriers are seldom ideal. A-frame mounted carriers, or those on the rear of caravans, may upset the balance of the van too, so check payload and noseweight carefully.

84 November 2020

A motorhome with a rear garage is perhaps ideal.

There are folding models which will fit inside the caravan, motorhome or towcar, but these can be expensive. Don’t scrimp on good locks/chains to protect your bikes, including when in transit if on an exposed rack.

Charging: On sites with mains, it should be straightforward to charge a battery or batteries overnight. If you stay off-grid, it’s more challenging.

Charging from a 12V leisure battery (via an inverter, or a DC-DC converter) isn’t ideal as it’ll take a significant amount of your available power. A solar panel helps, but may not be enough. If you’re moving regularly, a sensible option would be to charge while driving. The simplest way is to use an inverter to power the mains charger which comes with the bike. That’s relatively cheap, and an inverter’s useful for other purposes, too. Check the power rating of the charger and make sure the inverter’s rated for comfortably more, and also that it produces a ‘true sine wave’ output, as anything else may cause compatibility issues with more sensitive electronic devices. A second option is to use a DC-DC converter to step up the 12V available in the van to the higher voltage required to charge the e-bike battery. That’s more efficient in principle and may give a better (quicker) charge, but prices for these vary greatly. ‘Branded’ ones from e-bike suppliers or specialist accessory shops can be expensive, but come with the right connections for specific batteries. Cheap generic ones are readily available from online retailers, but may need adaptation to connect to specific batteries.

An e-bike can help take the strain out of a ride, while providing some exercise. Check out camc.com/offers for deals from Raleigh (above) and Haibike (below)

Please address your questions to:

Technical Information, Email: technical@camc.com Tel: 01342 336611 ...and quote your membership number

camc.com/advice www.camc.com

BIG SAVE!

81 UP TO

% OFF

Exclusive rubber logo

4XL

Protective raised collar

Zip-up side pockets

Elasticated cuffs and hem

EssEntiAl WiNteR WarMerS

ComPleTe The lOOk! Fleece Hat & Gloves Set

PACK OF 2

£

29

.99

WAS £159.80 + £3.99 p&p

Save £129.81

84% OFF

Pack of 2 Atlas® Puffer Jackets Warm, lightweight quilting

100% polyester

Available sizes:

Water-repellent

(approx. 120 g/m²)

S M L XL 2XL 3XL 4XL

Easy-storage clip Elasticated wrists

Ref: 04018874

ORDER NOW, WHILE STOCKS LAST!

atlasformen.co.uk/puffers 0870 631 4792 (13p/minute + phone company access charge)

Warm fleece

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED We want you to be 100% satisfied which is why we give you up to 60 days after delivery to return your order and obtain a refund/exchange (less p&p).

QUOTE PROMO CODE:

24406

Atlas For Men complies with the Consumer Contract Regulations; you have the legal right to cancel and return your order within 14 days of receipt. For more information and full terms & conditions, visit our website. Offer applies to UK customers only. For details on how we look after your data please see our privacy policy www.atlasformen.co.uk/ about/useful-information/privacy-policy.aspx or request a copy from our customer service team. Delivery normally within 5-7 working days. Offer ends 30 November 2020, subject to availability.

UK F20 PAD1 24406 - NOVEMBER 2020 - Atlasformen SAS - French company with a capital of €1 659 866 - R.C.S Paris B 449 149 038 - 87-89 rue La Boétie - 75008 Paris - France - Our Customer Service Team is available on: 0333 336 0852 (call charges vary according to service provider) from Monday to Friday from 8am to 5:30pm, Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. www.atlasformen.co.uk - Photo credit: I. J-L, S. Gazeaud, P-O. Doury, Fotolia - non-contractual photographs.

www.camc.com

100% polyester

Water-repellent Hat: one size Gloves: S M L

Ref: 04018873

ONLY

3

£

.99

WAS £25.00 + £3.99 p&p

Save £21.01 November 2016 21

PRODUCT SHOWCASE OUTDOORWEAR

Fleece

Jane McGowan checks out a variety of fashionable layers to keep you warm this autumn and winter

OFFERINGS National Trust Frugi Woodland Wanders Snuggle Fleece Frugi prides itself on its environmental credentials – using organic fabrics and sustainable production methods – so it makes sense that it has teamed up with the National Trust to create an eye-catching range for children up to eight years old.

Decorated with a variety of woodland creatures, this unisex pullover features a warm fleece inner, hand pocket and a stand-up collar with popper fastenings to keep the cold at bay. Also available in the range are: wellies, ‘Puddle Buster’ jacket and a backpack.

RRP: from £34 Size: 6 months-8 years Contact: shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

Sherpa Nyano If you are a fan of sustainable clothing, then you will love this on-trend women’s pullover from the eco-friendly fashionistas at Sherpa. The Nyano – which actually means ‘warm’ in the Nepali language – features a traditional design and is made from 63% recycled fabric. It features a cowl-neck and raglan sleeves, which both add comfort and aid free movement, and thumb holes, which mean your hands should stay a bit warmer too. There is also a handy ‘kangaroo’ pocket which comes complete with media port. And the best bit? Every jumper sold helps to provide educational resources for children in Nepal.

RRP: £75 Colour: peetho white; tamur olive Size: XS-L Contact: sherpaadventuregear.co.uk

86 November 2020

Rab Women’s Capacitor Hoody New for this season is this mid-weight fleece. Part of Rab’s Hike range, the top comprises a robust textured body – made from recycled brushed fleece - and sides, sleeves and hood that feature lightwight ‘Thermic stretch panels’, designed to allow freedom of movement.

The hood should site nicely under a helmet, should you fancy a spot of winter cycling.

The fitted fleece is machine washable and quick-drying – making it perfect for weekends away on site.

RRP: £70 Colour: beluga; crimson; atlantis Size: 8-16 Contact: rab. equipment/uk

Arc’teryx Men’s Rho AR Zip Neck

Lands’ End Big Kids' Dip Dye Pullover Fleece Hoodie

Intended as a base-layer for skiing or a mid-layer for colder-weather running or cycling, this state-of-the art jersey has everything the active explorer could want. Designed to offer warmth and moisture-wicking properties as well as freedom of movement, the form-fitting garment features a stand-up collar with half-zip and chest pocket.

A women’s version is also available.

RRP: £110 Colour: soulsonic; dynasty; paradox; black; Yukon Size: S-XXL Contact: arcteryx.com

Available in two bold shades – magenta and teal – this eye-catching children’s hoodie is exceptionally soft and snuggly. Made from a cotton and polyester mix, the well-constructed body features reinforced shoulders and a kangaroo pouch to keep little hands warm. The loose-fit, lightweight design means it sits well over a T-shirt, as well as under an outer shell on colder days. Aimed at children aged eight to 13, this top from the Cornwall-based company is ideal for active kids who still want to look cool!

RRP: £22-£26 Colour: vibrant magenta; gulf teal Age: 8-13 Contact: landsend.co.uk

Berghaus Syker Fleece Jacket This versatile, full zip-through men’s jacket could be worn either as an outer layer during autumn and spring or as a mid-layer for the colder months.

It is made from ‘Polartec’ Classic fabric which is designed to be lightweight yet warm, fast-drying and breathable. Ideal for people on the go, the Syker also features two hand pockets, elasticated cuffs and hem and reinforced shoulders – great if you’re the one on rucksack duty.

RRP: £100 Colour: oatmeal/dusk; red/blue; grey/jet black Size: XS-XXXL Contact: berghaus.com

November 2020 87

PUZZLE CROSSWORD

CROSSWORD Loads of prizes to be won!

A bundle of games worth £100 from SmartGames will be won by the sender of the first correct solution opened on Friday 27 November 2020. Members can save 10% across the SmartGames range – visit camc.com/smartgames for details. Four runners-up will each receive £10 Club gift tokens. Please clearly photograph and email your answer grid to crossword@camc.com. Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

10

8

9

12

11

13 14

15 17

16 18 19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26 27

31

28

32

29

33

30

34 36

38

35

37

39

42

43

44

49

48 54

40

45

46

50

41

47

51

52

53

55

56 57

58

59 60

61

NAME: ADDRESS:

ACROSS 1 Tender and yielding (4) 3 Undecorated (5) 10 Husbandless wife (5) 12 Fellow workman (4) 13 Rude and coarse (6) 14 Root vegetable (5) 15 Go forward (7) 16 Circle or triangle (5) 17 Not any (4) 19 Story (4) 21 Plant with medicinal properties (5-5) 24 Chair (4) 27 Anticipate as likely (6) 28 Large ape (7) 30 Idea (6) 31 Ruffian (4) 33 Practical joke (4) 34 Perforated nozzle (4) 35 Large town (4) 38 S American country (6) 39 Precious stone (7) 40 Type of drum (3-3) 42 Pond bird (4) 44 In two equal parts (5-5) 47 Metal currency (4) 48 Fall (4) 52 Three score (5) 54 Flower or sea polyp (7) 55 Rabbit cage (5) 57 The fall (6) 58 Lass (4) 59 Throwing weapon (5) 60 Acutely inclined (5) 61 Bloke (4)

DOWN 1 Rescue (4) 2 Dirt (5) 3 Money bag (5) 4 Try (7) 5 A good read (5) 6 Perspiration (5) 7 Show off (5) 8 Vast (7) 9 Shelf (5) 11 Gadget (6) 18 Eyelid inflammation (4) 20 Force out or escape from stricken plane (5) 21 To keep back items of information (8) 22 Difficult (4) 23 .... lang syne (4) 25 Rainbow fish? (5) 26 Lineage in family tree (8) 28 Protect (5) 29 Audibly (5) 32 Rowed a boat (5) 35 Comedian (5) 36 Section (4) 37 Block of bread (4) 41 Repair (4) 43 Competent (7) 45 Salary or pension (6) 46 The main film (7) 48 Risky or dicey (5) 49 High IQ society (5) 50 Striped horse (5) 51 Complete disorder (5) 52 Shrill and piercing (5) 53 Feel (5) 56 Childrens card game (4)

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

MEMBERSHIP NUMBER:

October solution: Across: 1 Actress 5 Versus 8 Whisper 10 Cone 11 Lesson 12 Knack 14 Gag 15 Supporter 16 Airy 17 News 19 Wedlock 22 Pecks 24 Poultry 26 Best 28 Crawl 29 Cornet 31 Propel 33 Iguana 35 Candid 38 Often 39 Blue 40 Vertigo 43 Torch

88 November 2020

45 Welfare 47 Rage 49 Free 50 Kidnapped 53 Pal 54 Shift 55 Seance 56 Wish 57 Sincere 58 Elated 59 Respond Down: 1 Avenge 2 Rock 3 Sweep 4 Fragrant 5 Vulgar 6 Reserve 7 Sandcastle 9 Pant 13 Cockpit 15 Side 17 Nimby 18 Swat

grid A

20 Open 21 Pump 23 Channel 25 Rapid 27 Shooter 28 Clod 29 Coin 30 Rouge 32 Toothpaste 34 Avid 35 Crow bar 36 Noel 37 Serve 39 Beer 41 Reckless 42 Bald 44 Coronet 46 Depend 48 Gifted 51 Darn 52 Power 54 Ship

SEPTEMBER W INNERS £50 first prize: Jean Townsley, South Yorkshire. £10 runners-up: D Parker, Herts; C Butler, Warwickshire; S A Coaker, Devon; M Slinger, Aberystwyth Please note: prizes will be posted as soon as possible.

Scan or take a photo of your answers and send to crossword@camc.com with the subject heading November Crossword.

Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry

www.camc.com

GRID A

www.camc.com

November 2016 21

Motorhome and Campervan Insurance when you need it

We’ll beat your renewal by

£25*

With our award winning cover it’s no wonder our members come back to us year after year. Switch to us and we’ll beat your current renewal premium by at least £25.*

BEST MOTORHOME INSURANCE PROVIDER

WINNER 2019

Get yourself award winning cover visit camc.com/insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for a quote today.

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 This is promotional information only and a sample policy wording including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon request. *Premium Saving Guarantee. Subject to proof of an existing renewal quote from your current insurer, including cover and price (e.g. a copy of your renewal notice) and when cover is on a like-for-like basis. Offer applies to new customers only.

Subject to terms and conditions and the underwriter’s acceptance of the risk. Please note, terms, conditions and excess(es) may vary from your current insurer and excludes Breakdown and Legal cover, which needs to be purchased separately.

PUZZLES BRAINTEASERS

SUJIKO HOW TO PLAY

Place the numbers 1-9 in the spaces so that the number in each circle is equal to the sum of the four surrounding spaces.

Solution Solution www.camc.com

November 2020 91

SUDOKU

PUZZLES BRAINTEASERS

HOW TO PLAY

All you have to do is place a number from 1-9 in each empty cell so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the numbers from 1-9.

Solution Solution 92 November 2020

www.camc.com

Solution

KILLER SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY The normal rules of Sudoku apply.

Place a digit from 1-9 in each empty square so that each row, column and 3x3 block contains all the digits from 1-9. In addition, the digits in each inner shape (marked by dots) must add up to the number in the top corner of that box. No digit can be repeated within an inner shape.

Solution www.camc.com

November 2020 93

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Dealer Marketplace Before you start looking for a new touring vehicle, check out these handy buying tips…

AlphaProd/Shutterstock

WHY BUY FROM A DEALER?

The law offers greater protection when you purchase from a dealer than when you buy privately. The caravan’s condition must be as described accurately by the seller; it must be fit for its purpose and it must be of satisfactory quality (however, this latter stipulation does not apply to defects specifically brought to the purchaser’s attention, or to defects that ought to have been revealed by any examination the purchaser or another may have made).

New vehicles bought through a dealer will come with a warranty, and many second-hand motorhomes and campers will also have some form of guarantee – make sure you are aware of any exclusions or restrictions.

CARAVANS

We have lots of advice on our website – visit camc.com/advice and click on ‘Hiring and buying guide’ – but here are a few pointers to get you started. n It may seem obvious – but think hard about what you want to use your caravan for. Are you looking to spend the odd weekend away or stay for extended periods on specific sites? Do you need basic facilities for two or a family-sized vehicle? Would you like to take the grandkids away occasionally? n Is your car suitable for towing? The Club recommends that for comfort and safety the weight of your caravan with its contents should not exceed around 85% of the car’s kerb, or unladen, weight.

We have a fantastic online ‘outfit matching tool’ which helps you see which caravans your car can tow – find it at camc.com/advice. n If you are buying second-hand, check how old the caravan is – the age of a caravan can usually be identified from a serial number, most frequently found on the chassis or on a chassis plate.

Double check that it has not been stolen – a CRiS check at cris.co.uk can not only identify a caravan reported as having been stolen, but can identify the age of the newer models of caravan and also whether there are any outstanding HP payments. Check that the details of the CRiS registration document tally with those of the caravan. The Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Theftcheck Service (01342 336885) can also help. n Check for damp inside cupboards, bed lockers, and anywhere there is a corresponding outside seal on the caravan. Most caravan dealers should be happy for you to use a moisture meter or damp detector.

MOTORHOMES AND CAMPERVANS n First decide whether you are going to opt for a ‘coachbuilt’ motorhome (where the living area of the vehicle has been purpose-built onto a cab and chassis) – or a ‘conversion’ (where a commercial van has been adapted for touring).

A coachbuilt will generally be more expensive – but roomier and more highly specified – while a conversion may be suitable for everyday use

(driving around town, doing the school run etc). There are numerous subclasses of motorhome from ‘over-cab’ to ‘A-Class’ to elevating-roof models – familiarise yourself with the different types by visiting camc.com/advice.

“

New vehicles bought through a dealer will come with a warranty

”

n Inspect vehicles thoroughly before committing to a purchase. As with caravans, check for damp and look at the wheels. Are the tyres the right size for the wheel rims and do they match?

Are they suitable for the maximum weight and speed of the motorhome?

Ask to take the vehicle for a trial run and note its behaviour on the road. Five years is the maximum safe life of a tyre, regardless of mileage. n If you are buying a second-hand vehicle, ask for a detailed history of previous services, MoTs etc.

FOR MORE BUYING TIPS PLEASE SEE CAMC.COM/ADVICE AND CLICK ON ‘HIRING AND BUYING GUIDE’ 94 November 2020

www.camc.com

Dealer Marketplace

brought to you by the Caravan and Motorhome Club

OWNERS The leading pre-owned motorhome SURVEY and VW campervan specialist SATISFACTION

Motorhome Dealer Group are a multi-award winning family owned business with outlets in Hampshire and Dorset.

We have over 80 price checked motorhomes and campervans for sale at our twin site located in St. Leonards near Ringwood, Hampshire: Countrywide Motorhomes and the VW Kamper Centre.

Three Counties Motorhomes in Poole, Dorset deals with all vehicle hand-overs, servicing and repairs.

Countrywide Motorhomes Main A31, 215 Ringwood Rd, St. Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2QB Tel: 01202 881089 Prices from £20,000 to over £60,000.

All vehicles supplied with a National Warranty. We are a Family owned business, run by motohome enthusiasts, and stock everything from two berth compacts to six berth family models.

VW Kamper Centre 215 Ringwood Road, St. Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2QB Tel: 01202 855531

Coachbuilt, Low Profile and A-Class motorhomes. Campervans and Conversions, all types and sizes. Part Ex’s always welcome, best prices paid. We follow all the latest government guidelines to ensure you can Browse & Buy Safely.

The biggest and best selection of VW campers in the country.

Pre-owned and brand new conversions.

Actual vehicles on-site ready to buy.

No waiting for a build slot. All price ranges, specifications, colours, berths & layouts.

Ask for a

VID

Unrivalled quality, unrivalled choice, unbeatable value.

Presen EO of any vtation

You’ll find the same high standards of vehicle preparation and customer care at all our branches.

View interior and exterior images of all our stock online at...

www.m-d-g.co.uk

before aehicle rrival

Search Motorhome Dealer Group on YouTube for our latest videos.

Three Counties Motorhomes 46 Hatch Pond Road, Nuffield Industrial Est, Poole, Dorset, BH17 0JZ Tel: 01202 673735

Customer Hand Over Suite

Sell us your motorhome or campervan!

We’d love to talk about buying your motorhome We sell so many motorhomes from our sites in Hampshire and Dorset, we’re always looking to buy fresh stock.

ALL MAKES AND MODELS CONSIDERED • UK’s Best Buyer • Immediate Valuation • Instant No Risk Bank Transfer Prior To Collection • Courteous Efficient Service • Free Nationwide Collection • Outstanding Finance Settled • Open 7 Days A Week • Recognition For Extras Fitted And Careful Ownership

Call Rob Kirk, Andy Spencer or Gavin Bartlett NOW!

FREEPHONE 0800 652 4026 Untitled-1 1

www.m-d-g.co.uk

Please Quote C-and-M Club when contacting us

Open Weekdays: 9am-5.30pm, Poole branch appointments only at weekends Hampshire branch Sat: 9am-5pm,Sun: 10am-4pm

March 2020

01/09/2020 10:38

TAIL LIGHTS

Your observations on the unusual world of touring WHEN’S A VW NOT A VW? David Wright was sorting out some old photos when he came across this one, taken at Shawsmead Club site in 2016. “Obviously some sort of tent, but I had to look twice,” says David. It’s certainly a fun piece of canvas to sleep in!

PLAIN SPEAKING

The Canal & River Trust is serious about good behaviour in the vicinity of the waterways, as this sign, spotted by Derrick Eastham, shows. Not only does it give some clear instructions to dog owners, but there’s also a message for their canine companions. Would anyone care to translate?

Off for a spin

Vicky McCarthy and her husband purchased their first caravan just over a year ago – a 1984 Swift Pirouette that needed some repairs and modernising. Lockdown gave them the opportunity to spend some time doing ‘Rosie‘ up, and they finally had their first trip away in it over the summer, to Battle Normanhurst Court Club site. We suspect this splendid tourer drew a few admiring glances.

This overcab sign tickled Club members Bob and Sue. “We saw this on our annual visit to Damage Barton – just to make sure there is no confusion, we presume.”

WEATHER’S LOOKING

A BIT WOOF Martin and Cherry Ricks were enjoying their first outing this year at Norfolk Broads Club site when, all of a sudden, this lovely cloud floated past. We wonder what the fourlegged friends enjoying the site’s dog walk made of it.

If you see something 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 106 November 2020

Person box

‘‘ ’’ PRICE HALF

UP TO

48”

”

WAIST

4

LENGTHS

I’m most impressed by the quality and fit!

Online Review

THERMAL ACTION TROUSERS £40 £20 SAVE £20 • Easy care and quick drying fabric • Elastication for extra comfort • Multiple pockets for added security • Warm thermal lining

from

£19 OLIVE

Machine Washable 65% Polyester 35% Cotton Lining 100% Polyester Tricot 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 Olive Charcoal Black 27” (68.5cm) inside leg AC14594 29” (74cm) inside leg AC14595 31” (79cm) inside leg AC14596 33” (84cm) inside leg AC14597

SAND

EZP EZP EZP EZP

LACE-UP TRAVEL SHOES £38 £19 SAVE £19 • Cushioning underfoot • Padded ankle collar and tongue for support • Sturdy soles for daily wear Upper/Sole Other Lining/Sock Textile 7 8 9 10 11 12 E Fit Sand

AQ11590 EZP

Plus only £3.99 standard delivery POST TO: Cotton Traders, Cotton Hub, Merlin Court, Atlantic Street, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 5NL ORDER CODE

1ST COLOUR CHOICE

SIZE

2ND COLOUR CHOICE

Please send me item(s) indicated (BLOCK CAPITALS PLEASE) I enclose my Cheque/PO made payable

QTY

TOTAL

UK STANDARD DELIVERY TOTAL

£3.99

to Cotton Traders Limited for £

THERMAL LINED CHARCOAL

ZIPPED POCKETS BLACK

SIDE ELASTICATED WAIST OLIVE

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms

Initial

Surname

Address Postcode

order today, visit cottontraders.com or call 0844 844 1111 Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

14 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE IF NOT COMPLETELY SATISFIED Registered office: Cotton Traders Ltd, Cotton Traders House, Atlantic Street, Altrincham WA14 5GZ

Fast, reliable UK & International delivery service International delivery available online to over 25 countries worldwide

www.camc.com

Telephone Please debit my

Valid From

Signature MasterCard

Expiry Date

Visa

Issue No.

Security Code*

Maestro

PLEASE USE THIS PROMOTIONAL CODE TO CLAIM YOUR OFFER

F191

Payment taken at point of order. We aim to deliver within 3 working days from dispatch, stock subject to availability. We comply with Consumer Contract Regulations; you have the right to cancel your order no later than 14 days after the day on which you receive your goods. Inform us of your wish to cancel in writing, by letter or email. Returns are not free, full details are on your delivery note.

Return goods within 14 days of cancellation. Calls to 0844 numbers will cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. £3.99 UK standard delivery. International delivery from £6.95. Offer applies to purchases in GBP only. Exception is Ireland orders which will be charged in EUR at the set conversion rate. Prices quoted are correct at time of production but can vary.

One promotion per order. *Last 3 digits on back of card. This is mandatory to process your order. Offer ends 31.01.2021.

Marketing and Promotions: We want to make sure you don’t miss out on our great products and offers, so we will keep you informed by post. If you do not want to hear from us, please let us know. I do not want to be contacted by post We take your privacy seriously. For details of our privacy policy and full terms and conditions visit cottontraders.com.

November 2019 114

Here for you, whenever you need us.

Hope Valley, Peak District

MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover Wherever you plan on touring this winter, whatever the weather, from snow to floods or mud, we’ll cover you without charging you any extra when specialist equipment is required.

With 3 cover levels to choose from, starting with Roadside & Recovery at £74 a year, MAYDAY’s got you covered nationwide.

Call 0345 366 6579 or visit camc.com/mayday

8 10

Customers chose to renew with us last year

No vehicle restrictions

Specialist recovery

Nationwide recovery

PROVIDED BY

A sample MAYDAY UK Breakdown Cover policy booklet including the limitations and exclusions that apply is available upon 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. Mayday UK Breakdown Cover is provided by Green Flag and underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, both part of the same group. Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No.1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority