Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine - April 2019

APRIL 2019 SE

Wold PEDAL faithful

POWER Cycling special: five pages of essential tips

On Test Vehicles from Ford, Swift and Elddis rated

Why you’re guaranteed a great break in the beautiful Cotswolds

Travel Notes A musical trip through magical Austria

Design Classics Club motorhome awards round-up

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COMMENT EDITOR’S VIEW

TESTED: FORD FOCUS ESTATE/XPLORE 422/SWIFT KON-TIK 649

On Test Vehicles from Compass, Coachman and Skoda

Overseas Travel Unveiling the hidden delights of the Algarve

PASS p1 SE Cover.indd 1

Space maker How to choose the best awning for your needs

07/02/2019 14:33

PEDAL POWER Cycling special: five pages of essential tips

www.camc.com

www.camc.com

09/01/2019 14:29

APRIL 2019 SE

FEBRUARY 2019 SE

MARCH 2019 SE

Killin to Kinlochewe – our seven-site tour will leave you breathless

TESTED: SKODA KODIAQ/COACHMAN LASER 665/COMPASS AVANTGARDE CV20

Used Caravan Special We look at second-hand tourers for every budget

PASS p1 Cover.indd 1

CACHE POINTS

Use your next break to hunt for hidden treasure

TOURING: COTSWOLDS CLUB SITES AND CLS

TOURING: WEST SCOTLAND CLUB SITES AND CLS

Activity Break Hitting the heights at an indoor climbing wall

CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB MAGAZINE APRIL 2019

CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB MAGAZINE MARCH 2019

7-stop safari

Coast, city and country: a tour of England’s south-east is packed with surprises

On Test Volkswagen Touareg, Bailey Alliance 70-6

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

SE

SE

Climbing challenges in England, Scotland and Wales

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Membership services and magazine circulation 01342 318813 (calls may be recorded)

TESTED: VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG/SECOND-HAND CARAVANS/BAILEY ALLIANCE 70-6

Main switchboard 01342 326944 (Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm)

TOURING: SOUTH-EAST CLUB SITES AND CLS

For comprehensive contact details, see camc.com/contact

CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2019

Club contact details

SE

Welcome President: Thomas Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester Chairman: Grenville Chamberlain OBE Director General: Nick Lomas

TAKE A PEAK

Magical Scotland

On Test Vehicles from Ford, Swift and Elddis rated

Wold faithful Why you’re guaranteed a great break in the beautiful Cotswolds

Travel Notes A musical trip through magical Austria

PASS p1 SE Cover.indd 1

This month’s cover: Cotswold scene, csfotoimages/getty

Design Classics Club motorhome awards round-up

08/03/2019 16:31

Gary Martin says:

T

he April issue signals the start of the new touring season – granted, some 55 of our sites stay open all year round, but the majority of our locations start to welcome members from the end of March.

With this in mind, where will you go on your first touring trip of 2019? Stuck for ideas? Then this issue will inspire you.

The Cotswolds’ mix of rolling hills and distinctive yellow limestone buildings has been attracting tourists for years – and during the peak summer season the region does get very busy. So, why not beat the crowds and enjoy an earlyseason holiday in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?

Elizabeth Fowler and her daughter Alison did just that, and you can read about their tour of this area on p26-36 of this issue. It is full of ideas for culture vultures, families, history buffs, active people and those who enjoy good food.

“Where will you go on your first touring trip of 2019?”

If the Cotswolds isn’t your slice of cake, then perhaps you’ll be tempted to sample one of the 10 sites we’ve selected as ideal destinations for an adventure in May. From Abbey Wood in London to Culloden Moor in the Highlands, each of these locations promises to give you plenty of memorable early-season memories.

Remember, this year you can take your friends and family with you to six locations across the UK – to stay in a variety of accommodation types, including glamping lodges, yurts and Airstreams, via Experience Freedom Wherever you go, please let us know about it – write to me at magazine@ camc.com.

Site booking (members only)/UK Club sites advance booking 01342 327490 Insurance Caravan 01342 336610 Car/motor caravan 0345 504 0334 Home/contents 0345 504 0335 Travel Service 01342 316101 Brochures on Club services 01342 327410 Technical advice 01342 336611 Club Magazine editorial 01342 336640 Legal helpline 01275 378728

Editorial Editor: Gary Martin

Advertising enquiries General number: 01342 779378

Deputy Editor: John Thynne

Commercial Manager Tolga Dervish 01342 779368 tolga.dervish@camc.com

Assistant Editors: Stuart Egan, Stephen Hollis Design: Michaela Easey

Postal address Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA

Commercial Executive Steve Walters 01342 779377 steve.walters@camc.com

Business Development Manager Ian Lea 01342 336753 ian.lea@camc.com

Commercial Executive – Regional Adam Johnson 01342 336742 adam.johnson@camc.com

Production Controller Tara Erroll 01342 779371 tara.erroll@camc.com Digital advertising co-ordinator Vicky Powell 01342 779378 victoria.powell@camc.com

enquiries@camc.com

www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

3

NEWS HEADLINES

HOOK UP TO THE BIGGEST WARRANTY ON THE MARKET REXTON FROM

£28,995* 3.5 tonne maximum towing capacity† Selectable 4x4 with low range 2.2L engine 420Nm torque† Year warranty

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2 tonne maximum towing capacity‡ Intelligent 4x4 2.2L diesel or 2.0L petrol engines Year warranty

Fuel consumption figures in mpg, Rexton: Urban 27.1 – 28.8, Extra Urban 40.3 – 42.8, Combined 34.0 – 36.2. CO2 emissions in g/km: 204 – 218. Korando: Low 25.7 – 35.8, Medium 36.2 – 45.6, High 40.1 – 49.6, Extra High 35.3 – 39.2, Combined 35.3 – 42.8. CO2 emissions in g/km: 152 – 185. Models featured are a Korando 2.2D SE at £19,495 and a Rexton Ultimate at £39,595 both including optional

metallic paint. *Korando SE and Rexton EX both including VAT, delivery charge, Road Fund Licence & first registration charge. †420Nm torque and 3.5 tonne towing capacity on automatic transmission. ‡2 tonne maximum towing capacity on diesel models. ††Free fixed tow bar offer is available on all new SsangYong vehicles purchased before 30.06.19, excluding Tivoli, Tivoli XLV, and Country and Field, BASC, Mole Valley farmers, Scottish NFU and Ringlink Scotland Affinity deals. Warranty covers 7 years or 150,000 miles. 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.

2

APRIL CONTENTS

Contents

p26

Touring

26 UK SITES

Elizabeth Fowler takes in magnificent scenery, ancient history and magical wildlife on a tour of the Cotswolds 38 DIRECTORY UPDATES Updates to your Sites Directory & Handbook 42 ACTIVITY BREAKS Road cycling is good for body and mind says our outdoors expert, Jonathan Manning 46 FOREIGN TOURING Head to Austria for Alpine vistas and spectacular cities 71 REGIONAL SITE SPOTLIGHT We focus on a site in your area (you can see five different site articles on the Magazine App each month)

Tests

p92

88 CAR

Ford Focus Estate 92 CARAVAN Xplore 422 96 MOTORHOME Swift Kon-Tiki 649

News 15 HEADLINES

Club and industry updates 20 SITES Latest news from across the network 51 OVERSEAS Ideas for foreign holidays and tours 111 CENTRES Rallies and news from across the country

352,416 Circulation: Jan-Dec 2018 Printing by Walstead Bicester

Specials 8 CLUB MATTERS

A closer look at forthcoming changes to online booking

PLEASE

RECYCLE RESPONSIBLY

Our magazine and polythene wrapping are 100% 7 DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW Nick Lomas reports on a major survey recyclable 12 YOUR PHOTOS Regulars

The best pictures from your touring adventures

23 THE CAMPERVAN COOK

Martin Dorey serves up some tasty kebabs

54 MEMBER OFFERS

Exclusive deals and discounts for Club members 57 LETTERS Your comments and views 62 COUNTRY MATTERS The black-necked grebe 68 EVENTS DIARY Pitching spots near public events 76 CROSSWORD A chance to win Club gift tokens 86 FAMILY MATTERS Lee Davey runs through his packing list 102 PRODUCT SHOWCASE Cycling kit in the spotlight 104 ASK YOUR CLUB Your technical questions answered 107 PRACTICAL Find out about ‘serviced’ pitches 115 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS To advertise, call 01342 336817 130 TAIL LIGHTS The weird, wacky and wonderful world of touring

p62

40 CL OF THE YEAR

It’s time to nominate your favourite five-pitch site...

74 SOCIAL MEDIA

Connect with your Club today

78 MOTORHOME DESIGN AWARDS

p102

Part 1 of our annual competition round-up

101 TICKET OFFER

National Motorhome & Campervan Show saving

www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

5

Introducing our award winning range

2019 Special Editions

UNIQUE UPHOLSTERY

EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS

ELDDIS CHATSWORTH COACHMAN FESTIVAL SWIFT CELEBRATE SWIFT CELEBRATION Unique Styling – Superbly Equipped – Excellent Value

SUPERB SPECIFICATION

BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS

CALL US 24/7, WE’RE WAITING TO HELP YOU! Tel: 01457 868011 EDDIE COLLINS

MIKE HODGES 07939 033 974 mike@glossopcaravans.co.uk

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WE’RE WAITING FOR YOUR CALL

10 February 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

07956 970 383 ec1@glossopcaravans.co.uk www.camc.com

COMMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW

Opinion

Nick Lomas says:

D

id you know how much those touring and using leisure vehicles contribute to the national economy? The results of a recent survey, jointly commissioned by the Club, The Camping and Caravanning Club, the National Caravan Council and the British Holiday & Home Parks Association, showed that our sector contributes a massive £9.3 billion every year in visitor expenditure and supports over 171,000 full-time jobs.

The independent report, ‘Pitching the Value’, is the first time our sector has been analysed at a UK level, and means that we have a fantastic resource at our fingertips to impress government at national and local level. It clearly demonstrates the important benefits that our pastime brings and provides invaluable evidence for planning decisions when we’re developing existing or new sites for members. Generally it will help the sector attract more investment and improve opportunities for it to grow, develop and create new jobs for the future.

The extremely thorough survey work, carried out by independent experts Frontline Consultants, questioned visitors and park/site owners, and for the first time also covered Certificated Locations and Certificated Sites.

It showed that these small sites play an This magazine is also available at £2.29 (Google Play) or £2.99 (App Store) per important role in rural communities, with issue to non-members who download visitors spending over £100 million per annum. the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine app.

The project also demonstrated the power Readers are asked to note that the Caravan and of working together with our industry Motorhome Club cannot accept responsibility for the quality, safe delivery or operation of colleagues under a new umbrella any products advertised or mentioned in this organisation, the UK Caravan and Camping journal. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply any form of approval or recommendation.

Alliance, and the ambition is to repeat this in Advertisements or other inserted material are accepted subject to the approval of the publishers future to allow comparisons over the years. and their current terms and conditions.

The publishers will accept an advertisement But it’s not only economic value that these or other inserted material only on the condition that the advertiser warrants that such findings demonstrate. I’m sure it will come advertisement does not in any way infringe copyright or contravene the provisions of the as no surprise to you to learn that our hobby Trade Descriptions Act. All copy is subject to the approval of the is good for our health and well-being, too. publisher, who reserves the right to refuse, According to the survey, visiting a holiday amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to it at its absolute park or site made people more relaxed discretion and without explanation.

All advertisements must comply with the (88%), happier (87%) and less stressed British Code of Advertising Practice.

Mail order advertisers are required to state in (91%), while providing quality family time in advertisements addressed to the public, their true surname or full company name, together with the the process. We also do more exercise while address from which the business is managed.

Calls to phone numbers starting 084 and we are away, which brings obvious health 087 cost up to 7p per minute plus your service benefits including the psychological lift from provider’s charge. www.camc.com

“Our sector contributes £9.3bn every year in visitor expenditure”

being in the outdoors and experiencing the natural world at close quarters.

The results also show that local communities benefit from the presence of a site or holiday park in their area – not only in terms of the off-site spend of visitors or holidaymakers in shops, pubs and tourist attractions, but due to the active involvement of site owners and managers in supporting local events and fundraising initiatives.

We’re now using this compelling evidence to ensure key influencers and decisionmakers support the development and growth of our sector, to benefit the economy and anyone who enjoys a caravan, motorhome or camping holiday. You can find out more at ukcca.org.uk.

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

7

SPECIAL CLUB MATTERS

An altogether better

booking experience is coming…

Our new and improved online booking system will make planning your next overseas holiday even easier and more exciting

New-look crossing search In the March magazine we introduced you to the exciting changes coming to our online booking experience. In the first half of this year we’re going live with a new and improved system for reserving overseas sites and crossings; by the end of the year UK sites will be bookable via this new method, too.

In this issue, we wanted to show you some of the great features you’ll see when making a booking via the new system...

PUTTING YOU IN CONTROL When booking a break it’s great to see where everything is, so we’ve built an easy-to-use interactive map. That’s not all, you’ll be able to...

8 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

1 2

Research and book your holiday in one straightforward process.

Search for a specific location and zoom in and out to see sites in the area – for example, if you’re keen on staying near Perpignan you can search by that location and also see what other sites are in the region.

Review all sites in a location with the quick review results panel on the left-hand side of the map.

‘From prices’ are displayed on the map to make searching by price even easier.

3 4

5

Compare up to three different sites by facilities, things to do nearby and prices. For example, you can compare sites that have a golf course nearby.

Search by facilities or attractions that are important to you.

Sort your crossing results by price or departure time and choose the best port for your journey.

Sound good? For more information and a preview please visit camc.com/ newbookingexperience. Exact launch dates are still to be confirmed, but we’ll let you know as soon as it’s ready to try!

6 7

www.camc.com

Here’s a look at the new search-by-map function

Clockwise from right: perhaps you will enjoy a stay at Domaine de la Dragonnière in Languedoc, France; for crossings, choose your port and sort by price and departure time; you can search for a specific location, such as Saint Malo, and find sites nearby www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

9

Milenco lead the World with their British Designed and Engineered Award Winning Caravanning Accessories

Aero 3

Grand Aero 3 Aero 3 and Grand Aero 3 Mirrors

are now available with a number of improvements for easier and an even more secure fitting, these include upgraded rubber coated clamps along with a newly designed pad which helps ‘lock’ the Aero 3 Mirror into place, even on the most modern design of car and 4x4 mirrors. Also the Aero 3 comes with the very best quality glass available for the clearest view of any towing mirrors on the market.

Conforms to all the very latest EC Regulations.

Aero Adj ustable Blind Spot Mirror

This high quality Mirror is made using superior Chrome Convex Glass. Specially designed to eliminate Motorhome blind spots. Universal fitting.

NEW NEW High Security Steering Wheel Lock

High Security Steering Wheel Lock is a Gold Sold Secure powerful theft deterrent. Exceptional quality featuring an ultra high security lock in a steel construction. Designed to be compact in size, easy to fit yet extremely strong and resistant to all types of attack. Fits all vehicle Steering Wheels. New Extra Long Commercial version now available.

Milenco Triple/Trident/ Q uattro Levels These levels

incorporate a lattice, high-grip upper tread surface. They pocket the wheel at every height, therefore eliminating the need for Chocks. This shape also better preserves the tyre and protects against flat spots.

The solid base makes it ideal for use on soft ground or sand.

2nd generation Aluminium Level has now been upgraded

for even easier lifting. Will lift 1000kg per wheel (Caravan 2000kg, Motorhome 4000kg). Weighs less than 5kg. Enables precise levelling with the minimum effort. Fits 13-16” wheels and is ideally suited to use in conjunction with Alko. Comes complete with Carry Case.

Giant Lattice Grip Mat

This is a new extra large set of Grip Mats, designed to provide excellent performance in wet conditions. The Lattice design allows them to be linked together without the need to be tied, offering superior grip along with unrivalled surface area. Dimensions per mat: Length: 106cm Width: 33cm.

Stacka Corner Feet

are durable and high quality. These corner feet use a unique “clip and lock” system which incorporates a rattle proof sprung-loaded steel retaining shaft. Can be used with the Milenco Stacka Blocks.

Torq ue Wrench Safety K it is an

essential piece of safety equipment for anybody who tows a caravan, it enables the user to correctly torque the caravan wheels to the manufacturers specification.

Supplied with wheel nut indicators, when attached these give a visual indication if any wheel nuts have worked loose.

Internal U niversal Thermal Blind Top quality superior, 7 ply construction Thermal Blinds. Keeps your Motor home cool on hot days and warm on cold days.

Prevents condensation. Extreme tested to -50 + 50 degrees. Complete with Milenco easy release suckers. Unique, innovative, universal design to fit every Motorhome standard cab.

Compact Wheelclamp

Compact C Wheelclamp for Alloy and Steel Wheels

The ompact heelclamp fits all Caravan and Motorhome Wheels from 12” - 16”. Fits both Steel and Alloy Wheels.

The unique design has an integrated locking mechanism with winding handle making it the most versatile and easiest Wheelclamp there is to fit. omplete with Storage Case.

This is the lightest Wheelclamp to be accredited with SCM MP03 and the Sold Secure Gold standard. Weighs only 2.7 kg. Simply hooks through Caravan chassis which then passes through the wheel and is locked by a Ultra High Security Lock. Prevents movement of Caravan and rotation of the wheel.

2004/ 3004, AK 10 Hitches

Super Heavy Duty Hitchlocks Lightweight Alko have been engineered and Hitchlock This is our new designed to be the strongest

NON Sold Secure version of our Hitchlocks on the market. Superior Super Heavy Duty Hitchlock. shielding locking system. These This design is lightweight itchloc s are ertified to far and easy to fit. nsurance exceed Sold Secure Caravan Gold. Approved.

5 Year Lock Guarantee.

Leg Nutlock

Manufactured to the highest standard, these Corner Steady ut oc s fit onto the caravan corner steadies, locking the legs in the down position immobilising the caravan.

Rubber Top Non Slip

gauge available.

Original Non Slip

EXTRA HEAVY DUTY! Aluminium Double Steps

Non slip surfaces even when wet. The key to Milenco Award Winning Steps safety performance is the fact that the base is larger than the top - ensuring the step cannot topple over, nor will it sink into the ground or damage awning carpet.

Small 31 Security Handrail

System. Lock the handle left, right or outwards offering you additional security against break-ins or attacks.

This Hand Rail is also used for extra stability providing easier access. Door Frame Mounting also available.

Large 46 version also available.

Inside/Outside Security Door Lock

High Security Door Lock, which locks from both inside or outside. This new improved design only requires a 25mm gap between door frame and furniture. Universal fitting to fit most aravans and otorhomes in either Portrait or Landscape positions.

Multilock utilises innovative high security

design offering versatility for multiple applications. ncorporates a stainless steel frame mounted bracket for increased security over a standard door frame lock.

See www.milenco.com for full details.

Visit our website www.milenco.com

SPECIAL MEMBER PICTURES

YOUR PHOTOS Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera

North Wales

Devon

DOGGY PADDLE This is Holly enjoying a splash in Roadford Lake while staying at one of her – and our – favourite Caravan and Motorhome Club sites: the tranquil and beautiful Lydford Caravan and Camping Park AS near Okehampton.

Danielle and Dan Brooks

LIGHT FANTASTIC! Strolling through the Forest of Dean recently on a caravan holiday, we were treated to this wonderful natural light show. A real treat for the eyes – and the camera lens. Nearest Club site: Lucksall Caravan & Camping Park AS. Paul Farrington

PEN PORTRAIT Pausing to enjoy a glorious view on a wonderful walk around the north coast of Anglesey, from Amlwch to Point Lynas, while enjoying a stay at Penrhos Club site. As a bonus, our pitch on the site offered stunning views of majestic Snowdonia.

Shirley and Ken Davies

Northern Fran

ce

Gloucestershire

MONTING EXCITEMENT One of the many highlights of our month-long tour of Normandy and Brittany in ‘Humberto’, our 2008 Hymer B544 motorhome, was a fascinating day spent on Mont-Saint-Michel. An advantage of visiting in winter was that we were pretty much alone as we walked the island‘s steep streets. Camping Haliotis (booking code N17) is just a 20-minute drive away.

Lee and Angeline Hargreaves

Want to see your photo in a future issue? Send your images to camc.com inspiringadventures or tag us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #inspiringadventures 12 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

www.camc.com

Northumberland

COASTAL TREAT Dungeness Beach on the Kent coast has an almost surreal quality – and, as a keen photographer, I found it a really interesting place to take my camera. We stayed at the Club‘s Battle Normanhurst Court site, a fantastic base for exploring East Sussex and West Kent.

Adrian Lovell

Kent

Norfolk

SHIFTING SANDS While enjoying a caravan tour of Northumberland, we took a stroll to the impressive Bamburgh Castle. The wind was gusting the loose, dry sand along the beach towards the dunes, creating this rather ‘spooky’ effect. Nearest Club site: Berwick Seaview.

Greg Skyte

Ireland

West Scotl an

PITCH PERFECT How about this for a view from your very own pitch!

Bioran Dubh Croft Certificated Location sits on the banks of Loch Linnhe in Argyll & Bute, offering stunning views of Castle Stalker and lots of fabulous walking,cycling and wildlife-spotting opportunities.

David Todd

d

AWESOME ATLANTIC While enjoying a circular walk around Tully Mountain near Letterfrack on the west coast of Ireland, I came across this beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. The Club’s Knock Affiliated Site in Co Mayo is about 60 miles away to the east.

Horst Tacken

FREE PRIZE DRAW: Send us a photo and you will be automatically entered into a free monthly draw to win some fantastic prizes! See camc.com/competitions for full prize draw terms and conditions April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

13

NEWS HEADLINES

Member Offer

2 July 2017 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

www.camc.com

NEWS HEADLINES

Join us at BBC Countryfile Live BBC Countryfile Live – an outdoor event associated with the long-running BBC TV programme Countryfile, showcasing the UK’s countryside at its best – is heading to Castle Howard in North Yorkshire from 15-18 August. Countryfile Live has rapidly become one of the most anticipated family events of the summer, and this year we are delighted to report that the Club will be creating a pop-up campsite at the venue.

Attractions at the show include The Countryfile Main Stage (with cookery demonstrations as well

Design stars Club Director of Marketing Harvey Alexander is pictured speaking at the Motorhome Design Awards 2019 in Birmingham. To find out about the latest winning models, please see the first part of our round-up on pages 78-84.

Scottish and Welsh Nationals as talks and appearances by TV stars and experts), a Livestock Zone, a Wildlife Zone and an Equine Arena.

The Club-operated campsite will be situated within the grounds of Castle Howard, a short stroll from the entrance. With pitches close to the action, by staying at the site you will be able to beat the queues and make the most of your time at the event.

Club members can purchase entry tickets to the Countryfile Live

show at discounted prices before 31 July 2019 – see our member offers pages in this issue (pp54-55) for more information. To book your pitch at the Countryfile Live campsite, which is open from 14-19 August, head to camc.com/ countryfilelive. The campsite will include showers and toilets, drinking water and waste disposal; full details can be found via the link above. We look forward to seeing you there!

The National – fun-packed for everyone

Don’t miss...

If you would like to attend the Scottish National, this year’s event will be hosted by West Scotland Centre at Lanark Racecourse, Lanark from 3-7 May. More information can be found on the website of the Scottish Division of the Caravan and Motorhome Club at thescottishcaravanclub.com, where booking forms can be downloaded.

The Welsh National will be hosted

by West Wales Centre from 22-27 August at Brecon Showground, Brecon. For more details and booking information, please see westwalescentre.co.uk/national-2.

DAY TICKETS for The Nationa

l are still available for those who wish to come for a particular day – se e camc.com/nation al

This year, why not try and take in all of the following?

It's nearly time for The National – and to whet your appetite for this year’s extravaganza we’re sharing some of the highlights you will be able to enjoy while you are there.

Taking place this year from 24-28 May at Ragley Hall, Park and Gardens in Alcester, Warwickshire, The National is the Club’s annual flagship event, with thousands enjoying fun activities,

www.camc.com

sports, live music and much more. The programme is designed so that there’s lots for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age. Whether you are new to touring or a long-term Club member, we hope to see you there, as well as your families and friends.

For full details of the event and tickets, please visit camc.com/ national or call 01342 336666.

1 Picnic in the Park – new for 2019 and featuring tributes to Neil Diamond, Meat Loaf and Gary Barlow!

2 Country and Western evening – also new for 2019 3 The Whale Inn – now run by members, with live music on the agenda 4 Have-a-Go activities – including zip wire and zorbing 5 The National opening ceremony 6 The return of the popular Street Food Garden 7 Fun Dog Show 8 The Club Marquee 9 The Adria Display Arena 10 Visit magnificent Ragley Hall itself

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

15

NEWS HEADLINES

Brighton glamping pods unveiled New luxury glamping pods have been introduced at Brighton Club site in East Sussex. These new pods, which offer great views and have comfy bedding, en-suite bathroom facilities and cooking equipment all provided will be open from 1 May 2019, although bookings can be made now at experiencefreedom.co.uk.

As part of the planning consent and installation process, an ecological survey was carried out by a specialist, the results of which have enabled the Club to safeguard reptiles, insects and other wildlife at the site. Native woodland trees, flowers and shrubs have been planted around the pods, while wood piles have been created to encourage wildlife. Site staff can offer advice on local sustainable transport links, electric car charging points and walking and cycling routes in the area.

Glamping pods (prices start from £69 per night) are one of a range of alternative accommodation choices offered by the Club at a selection of sites across the UK, details of which can be found at the Experience Freedom website. At Brighton,

MAY 10-12 Gloucestershire: The Caravan and Motorhome Show, Cheltenham Racecourse, Cheltenham (Apple Tree Exhibitions, details as above) 17-19 Berkshire: The Southern Motorhome Show, Newbury Showground, Chieveley (Warners Group, details as above)

visitors can also choose to stay in tents, camping pods or an Airstream caravan. These new options give you an exciting alternative overnight experience and make it easier for friends and family to join you on your holidays.

There are special offers and discounts for members on glamping accommodation – see camc.com/ member offers and scroll down to ‘Experience Freedom’ for more.

Note: details subject to change – please telephone event organisers in advance for up-to-date information.

Enjoy ‘home from home’ on a great-value seasonal pitch Club members are able to book seasonal pitches at more than 80 sites.

These special pitches enable you to leave your outfit at a site – perhaps your favourite – and visit at your leisure without having to tow or manoeuvre.

The beauty of a seasonal pitch is that you can use it to go on

SHOWTIME APRIL 5-7 Hampshire: The South Coast Caravan & Motorhome Show, Broadlands Estate, Romsey (Apple Tree Exhibitions, call 01805 603943 or see appletree-exhibitions.co.uk) 26-28 Cambridgeshire: The National Motorhome & Campervan Show, East of England Showground, Peterborough (Warners Group, call 01778 391123 or see outandaboutlive.co.uk)

spontaneous weekend getaways or extended breaks, perhaps as a base that allows you to fully explore a wider area. The flexibility of the system means that you can enjoy your own dedicated pitch and stay for longer while saving money – prices for seasonal pitches are lower per night

You recommend…

Sites at racecourses

than standard touring pitches at the same sites.

EXAMPLE PRICES The table below sets out availability at five sought-after sites, with prices highlighted in bold (all available at the time of going to press). All prices quoted are for the full season; prices will be altered pro rata if you book a seasonal pitch when the start date has already passed. Price covers two adults, any children and an electric hook-up pitch.

Site Name Cayton Village, North Yorkshire Morvich, Highlands Modbury, Devon Bridport Bingham Grange, Dorset Bromyard Downs, Herefordshire

Start Date 15 Mar 2019 15 Mar 2019 15 Mar 2019 15 Mar 2019 15 Mar 2019

End Date 4 Nov 2019 4 Nov 2019 4 Nov 2019 4 Nov 2019 14 Oct 2019

Total Days 234 234 234 234 213

Details of seasonal pitch locations at 80+ sites, along with a step-by-step guide to booking and downloadable booking forms, can be found at camc.com/seasonal.

16 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

Price £2,400 £1,240 £1,595 £2,595 £1,262

n “Very unusual but pleasant setting. We have never stayed on a racecourse site before and the feeling of lots of space was very pleasant.” (Club site: Uttoxeter Racecourse) n “You can also watch or play golf – there’s a course here too.”

(Great Yarmouth Racecourse) n “Cheltenham Racecourse never disappoints. The view over the course to the backdrop of the Cotswolds Escarpment is breathtaking and expansive.”

(Cheltenham Racecourse) n “Go on a race day and set up a picnic close to the track, great fun.” (Exeter Racecourse) n “Fantastic little site with the best staff you will ever meet – they genuinely want you to be happy. On a busy bank holiday weekend the site was in tip top condition.” (Affiliated Site: Market Rasen Racecourse)

NEWS HEADLINES

TOURE RO N E

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• 7” Frameless Display guides you to your destination with a pinch-to-zoom, capacitive glass display & easy route shaping feature • Caravan and Motorhome Vehicle Profile shows speed limits, height restrictions and driver alerts for sharp curves and more • Three exclusive Caravan and Motorhome Club data bases • Extensive European Caravan and Motorhome site data bases • Free European Lifetime Map updates via PC, Mac, or WiFi • Free Lifetime Digital Traffic

• Road Warnings, Elevation Profile, Fatigue Warning and Driver Alerts ® • Hands-free features include Bluetooth calling, smart notifications and voice-activated navigation • Navigate Complex Interchanges with “spoken turn-byturn” directions and active lane guidance • TripAdvisor Travel POIs with ratings • BC™30 Wireless Backup Camera compatible (not included)

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April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

XX

NEWS HEADLINES

Regional events set for April Anglia Region and South East Region invite Club members to two separate ‘Question Time’ events, both of which will take place on 13 April 2019.

These events offer members the chance to socialise, find out about the Club’s Divisions, Regions and Centres and to discuss Club matters with a panel, often featuring members of the Executive Committee and staff from head office. Sometimes a tour of the location is offered for those in attendance.

Anglia Region’s event will take place at Newmarket Jockey Club Rooms (right), Newmarket at 2pm.

Club Chairman Grenville Chamberlain will be in attendance alongside Mark Pearson (the Club’s Director of Finance and IS) and David Smith (External Product Manager Insurance). If you would like to attend

In brief Site staff at Maragowan and Clachan Club sites in Killin, Scotland would like to thank members and other visitors for their generosity during the 2018 season in raising totals of £128.44 for the Guide Dogs charity and £152.96 for the Killin Mountain Rescue Team respectively.

If you are staying at Southland Club site on the Isle of Wight this year, you may be interested in ferry operator Red Funnel’s Guide to Fossil Hunting on the island. A PDF of the guide can be downloaded for free at redfunnel.co.uk/fossil-guide.

Mobile accessories manufacturer Dometic has launched the new, portable PLB40 battery, claimed to be the lightest and most powerful in its category. It is specifically designed to power a cooler, 12V devices and USB accessories.

We are looking for a qualified instructor to deliver the caravan and motorhome courses at a training venue in Evesham, Worcestershire.

If you are interested, please email events@camc.com.

There is free parking at the venue, refreshments at the end of the event and free access afterwards to the visitor centre, which tells the story of Frank Hornby’s iconic model trains and products such as Scalextric and Airfix. Please RSVP to Karen Shipper (southeastregionsec@aol.com) if you wish to attend. Certificated Locations near Margate include Acol Farm, Lydden Farm and Stalydene.

please RSVP to Mike Kent (vicechairman@angliaregion.org.uk), indicating whether you would also like to tour the Jockey Club Rooms.

(Depending on numbers, some tours of this historic horse racing location may commence at 1pm, before the Question Time event.) There is sufficient parking at the venue and

the nearest Club site is Cambridge Cherry Hinton.

South East Region will hold its event at Hornby Hobbies (above), Margate from 11am to 1pm. Club Vice-Chairman Rodney Lambert, Director of Marketing Harvey Alexander and Social Media Manager Graham Turner will sit on the panel.

From The Archives: News from the Club’s Collection In last month’s article, we saw how unpopular the 20mph speed limit for towing caravans, introduced in 1930, was among Club members, and how pressure from the Club helped raise it to 30mph in 1931.

The limit remained in place until 1958, when it rose again, to 40mph (depending on circumstances).

Today, of course, the limit has risen further to a maximum of 60mph on motorways, thanks in part to improvements in technology and safety.

The only exception to the rule was during track On the tests, which were part of the Club’s popular road MAGAZINE APP rallies events between 1954 and 1976. Taking this month: video reviews place at motor racing circuits, track tests were of the Kon-tiki 649 and the made a separate event in 1976 and for these it Xplore 422, cycling from was certainly a case of the faster the better!

Wood Farm AS in Dorset, You can also keep up to date with news extra Tail Lights and more ‘Spotlight On...’ site from the Caravan and Motorhome Club features Collection on Twitter @TheCAMCCollection.

Richard Noyce

DVLA approves glucose-testing devices Certain drivers who treat their diabetes with insulin can now use flash and continuous glucose monitoring devices to take glucose readings before they drive, or during breaks in driving, the DVLA has announced.

Until recently, drivers had to check their glucose levels with a finger prick blood reading no more

18 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

than two hours before driving and then again on a break after every two hours of driving.

Drivers can still use finger prick blood test readings should they choose to; the DVLA’s updated guidelines include information for people who wish to continue testing like this. Some drivers are still required to test their glucose levels

with a finger prick test, despite the changes. Further information can be found in the six-page guidance booklet at gov.uk/transport/ driving-licences-and-medicalconditions#guidance_and_ regulation. We would recommend that any specific queries on the matter are put to the DVLA in the first instance on 0300 790 6806.

www.camc.com

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March 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

21

NEWS UK SITES

Get away in May! With improving weather, two bank holiday weekends and the summer half-term for schoolchildren, May is the perfect month for a break...

Kayaking on Coniston Water

SITE BOOKINGS

Family time We’ve picked three sites in particular that will make for great family breaks...

Book your pitch on any of these sites via the UK Sites app, at camc.com/searchandbook or by calling our Advance Booking Service on 01342 327490.

1

CLUMBER PARK, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE Clumber Park was once part of Sherwood Forest – so the kids will have fun playing ‘Robin Hood’.

The abundant green space is criss-crossed by walking and cycling trails, while theme parks like Robin Hoods Wheelgate Park and Sundown Adventureland (for the under-10s) are nearby.

2 LOOE, CORNWALL

May has long been associated with festivities and leisure time as, traditionally, the weather begins to improve and nature explodes in all its glory. And if you have kids, school half-term holidays often coincide with the end of the month – it’s the perfect excuse for a special getaway Below, we’ve highlighted 10 Club sites you might like to consider this May – so why not take advantage of the warmer temperatures and the ‘longer’ days with a visit to one of them... or maybe more?

Abbey Wood, London Following redevelopment work that included the addition of all-weather pitches and open-grate motorhome and campervan waste points, Abbey Wood Club site is better than ever. With central London just 35 minutes away by train, and historic Greenwich 20 minutes by car, you are spoilt for choice in terms of day trip options.

Durham Grange, County Durham This spacious, full-facility site is just three miles outside the picturesque city of Durham with its famous cathedral. Seaham Beach is about

20 minutes’ drive away if you fancy some sea air, while Newcastle is also within easy reach.

day trips. Remember you can take advantage of our 50% off midweek offer at this site.

Freshwater East, Pembrokeshire A great spot if you love rock pooling, sandy beaches and coastal paths.

Nearby are colourful Tenby and Barafundle Bay, once named ‘Best in Britain’ by The Good Holiday Guide.

Poolsbrook Country Park, Derbyshire As well offering access to the lovely 165-acre park, this site is within easy reach of the western edge of the Peak District National Park. The vibrant city of Sheffield (15 miles away) is home to a variety of concerts, sporting events, exhibitions and fairs during May.

Meathop Fell, Cumbria Be inspired by the glorious scenery of the southern Lakes while staying at this recently redeveloped site (works included a new motorhome waste point and serviced pitches).

Windermere and Coniston Water, for example, are both less than 30 minutes’ drive away. Kendal and historic Lancaster also make for great

Bridport Harbour

20 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

Culloden Moor, Highlands Immerse yourself in Scottish history with a tour of the battlefield where the Jacobite Rising came to an end, enjoy fine food in Inverness, sample the whisky trail through the Spey Valley and take a trip on magnificent Loch Ness. You never know who you may bump into!

Bridport Bingham Grange, Dorset This rural site is the perfect location for walkers looking to explore the countryside and famous Jurassic Coast. Close to the lively market town of Bridport and the beaches of West Bay, the fossil hunter’s paradise of Lyme Regis is a 25-minute drive away.

Don’t forget your bucket and spade when you visit this Cornish Club site – East Looe Beach is a short drive (or 40-minute walk) away. Other nearby, familyfriendly attractions include The Monkey Sanctuary, which is home to marmosets, Barbary macaques and capuchin and woolly monkeys.

3 LONGLEAT, WILTSHIRE Set within the beautiful Longleat Estate, there’s so much to do here.

Walk through the extensive parkland, see the formal gardens, meet animals from around the world, escape the hedge maze or even try a safari drive...

Longleat is not to be missed.

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Cook

COLUMN MARTIN DOREY

The Campervan

Writer, cook and campervan owner Martin Dorey continues his gastronomic journey around the UK. This month he’s cooking up a barbecue special

We took delivery of our finished Volkswagen Crafter conversion this month from the specialist, Richard Hales, of Peterborough.

What was once a shell is now a fullyfunctioning motorhome, complete with shower, loo, oven, heater, double bed, two bunks for my kids – and even a little wardrobe for my Hawaiian shirts. In a nod to the past we chose an original check Westfalia fabric used in early camper conversions by VW’s first official converter.

Some of you will remember it fondly!

It was very exciting watching the sliding door glide open to reveal the results. Since we decided not to play it safe and matched the check with a breezy grey and orange interior, it was like peering into a beautiful sunrise. “Too much orange?” asked Lizzy. “Maybe,” I replied, putting on my sunglasses, “but at least we’ll wake up happy every day!”

The Cook recommends...

The Robin Hood Pub and Grill is just a short stroll from Cambridge Cherry Hinton Club Site. From mature rump steaks, to grilled chicken and a selection of burgers, you won’t go home hungry.

They do vegan and veggie dishes, too!

The following morning, after spending the night at the fabulous Cambridge Cherry Hinton Club site, we duly woke up to a glorious daybreak, ready for the long drive back to Cornwall. But first, a cuppa and a slice of toast!

Happily, the van functioned exactly as it should and drove beautifully.

We’ll be setting off on our

CUT OUT

AND KEEP

RECIPES

RECIPE No.15

s with Kofta kebabit tzatziki in p tas For four hungry campers Bread method Pitta bread

Sachet of active Dry yeast Cup of warm water 2½ cups of Plain flour 1tsp salt 1tsp olive oil

Kebab and tzatnczieki And as a main...

Rolled ribbons of courgette, stuffed with Moroccan-spiced brown vegetable rice, on mini skewers. Yum!

MEMBER SINCE...

Campervanner Martin Dorey joined the Club in 2016

www.camc.com

first major trip to Ireland about the time you read this, so if you see us, please give us a big wave.

We’ll be the ones with the sunglasses on.

To celebrate, I thought I’d share a recipe for the coming barbecue season. You don’t have to make the pittas yourself – but I've included the method if you’d like to try. Enjoy!

mi 500g of lean lamb 1 tsp cumin er 1 tsp ground coriand 1 tsp paprika Black pepper me) Lemon thyme (or thy c ma 2 tsp su (if you have it) Salt and pepper Olive oil Lemon Greek yoghurt Chopped mint Chopped cucumber

water yeast and the warm Empty the sachet of e oil. oliv d an t sal ur, flo Add into a mixing bowl. h. ug do t ve a slightly we Mix well until you ha on le litt a d ea kn d an wl Remove from the bo wl and o a ball. Clean the bo a floured surface int ll of ba the ling rol e for oil be add a dash of olive ave Le . p it sticking dough in the oil to sto 30 minutes, covered for rm wa ere wh some ces ok, cut into four pie co To el. with a tea tow e. cu rbe ba the g on – roll flat before grillin

ki method Kebab and tzatzi cumin, coriander,

the Mix the lamb with er. Divide mac, salt and pepp su , me thy , ka pri pa ages us sa n thi into long, into four and shape zzle a little dri , ing ok co e for around skewers. Be er the e of half a lemon ov olive oil and the juic least 10 at for e cu rbe ba kebabs. Cook on the y go turning often so the minutes each side, e off the slid , dy rea n he W . a nice, even brown tzatziki tas and dress with skewers into the pit sh fre yoghurt mixed with made from Greek the d an er mb cu ped cu chopped mint, chop . juice of half a lemon

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

23

Wold FAITHFUL

TOURING UK SITES

You’re guaranteed a great break when you head for the Cotswolds.

Elizabeth Fowler enjoys a seven-site tour, taking in famous attractions – and making some fascinating discoveries Photography by Alison Fowler (unless otherwise credited)

26 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

www.camc.com

www.camc.com

Paul Melling / Alamy

Tewkesbury

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

27

TOURING UK SITES

1 Tewkesbury Abbey Club Site Within walking distance of the town and its abbey, this charming site is screened by mature trees.

Pitches: 133 | Open: 1 Mar-11 Nov 2019

Member view “We like to choose a site where we can walk to interesting places, and Tewkesbury is such a pretty town. We have stayed here before and it is even better with the new facilities.”

Mr and Mrs Bailey, motorhomers

Site staff view “The site has been re-landscaped with new trees, lots of flowers and new facilities. There are river trips and always lots happening in town. The Berkeley Arms has good home-produced food.”

Kim Johnson

Food & drink The Abbey Tea Rooms, 59 Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5RZ Contact: abbeytearoomsandrestaurant.co.uk, 01684 292215

Culture Tewkesbury Abbey, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5RZ Contact: tewkesburyabbey.org.uk, 01684 850959

Outdoor fun Paddle Adventure, The Boathouse, Mythe Road, Tewkesbury GL20 6EB Contact: paddleadventure.co.uk, 01242 224086

For the family Jet Age Museum, Meteor Business Park, Cheltenham Road East, Gloucester GL2 9QL Contact: jetagemuseum.org, 01452 260078

28 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

T

o bew climbing down into the bowels of a nuclear bunker was not quite what I was expecting from a visit to the postcard-pretty Cotswolds – but finding the unexpected is always more fun than following a set plan.

It turned out to be one of the more unusual highlights of a glorious tour of this scenic region, starting from the wonderfully convenient Tewkesbury Abbey Club site.

Walk out through the gates and you have a perfect view across the water meadows to the abbey itself, with its graceful arches and one of the finest Norman towers in golden stone, rising above the weeping willows along the riverside.

The five-minute walk into town slowed to a crawl as many photographs were taken and we paused on the bridge to watch the water beneath.

Within the grounds of the abbey is a favourite attraction of mine – a magnificent mulberry tree that in the height of summer is groaning under the weight of luscious deep-red fruits. The abbey is the centre of the medieval town, which boasts an unaltered row of timbered houses. Here you will find the John Moore Museum – containing an extensive natural history collection, it was named after the author and conservationist born in Tewkesbury in 1907 – and the Merchant’s House, which offers a fascinating insight into life during Tudor times. Popular with members, a ticket gives www.camc.com

2 Rails End Nursery

The River Windrush winds through Burford

Certificated Location A quiet and secluded site surrounded by the trees and flowers of the nursery. Tewkesbury and Evesham are within easy reach.

Open: all year | Contact: 01386 881884 Sites Directory and Handbook p484

Site view “I just love meeting all my visitors and helping them have a nice holiday. I put in electric hook-ups when I opened four years ago as most people seem to want it. There is a good pub just 200 yards away and the silk centre and Conderton Pottery are close by.”

Jackie Locke

Food & drink

nna Stowe Landscapes UK / Alam

Herbies Coffee House, 2 Market Place, Evesham WR11 4RW Contact: 01386 423695

you access to both properties as well as the Old Baptist Church across the street.

From here we navigated tiny historic alleyways down to the riverside to a small flower-decked landing stage, where we joined the Aqua Patio for a scenic tour. Being on a boat always seems much more exciting than any other form of sightseeing.

After exploring Tewkesbury we headed north-east towards Rails End Nursery CL but a sign took us off-piste to Conderton Pottery where we found Toff Milway’s studio. Showing us a fabulous dish, he expounded on the purpose for its creation – at a supper party for friends it would be full of a glorious mix of rice, vegetables and www.camc.com

perhaps fish. His enthusiasm truly transports you into his world.

When we finally arrived at the CL, we were delighted to find a spacious pitching area surrounded by hedgerows adjacent to the family-run nursery. It is also an excellent base for exploring the attractive market town of Evesham as the bus stops a few minutes’ walk away.

Alighting in town, we crossed the river, admiring the attractive narrow boats on the water, and wandered up through Abbey Park.

On our way we passed a splendid gold, metallic fish sculpture and the remains of Evesham Abbey and its bell tower. The lovely black and white 14th-century building at the far end of the park

Culture Regal Cinema Evesham, 41 Port Street, Evesham WR11 3LD Contact: theregal.ac, 01386 421007

Outdoor fun Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve, near Evesham Contact: gov.uk/government/publications/ worcestershires-national-nature-reserves

For the family Evesham Leisure Centre Climbing Wall, Abbey Road, Evesham WR11 4SU Contact: riversfitness.co.uk/evesham, 01386 444212

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

29

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“We entered a cramped room where, had there been a nuclear attack, a small team would have lived”

3 Broadway Club Site An attractive site on two levels adjacent to a heritage railway line. Broadway station is just a stone’s throw away.

Pitches: 117 | Open: all year

Clockwise from right: at Broadway station; Broadway Tower; Elizabeth enters Broadway Bunker

Member view “This is our first Club site visit, and what a lovely site this is. We like to be able to walk to interesting places with no parking hassle and be able to take the dog.”

Mr and Mrs Calvert, motorhomers

Site view “This site is right in the middle of all the Cotswolds have to offer, with Broadway village, the lavender farm and Adam Henson’s farm park close by.”

Terry Johnson

DID YOU KNOW?

You can find the most up-to-date details of the That claustrophobic hole is the Almonry. Once home to featured sites on the Club provided a dramatic contrast the abbey’s Almoner, today it website. Alternatively, to the immense open views serves as a museum and turn to the relevant pages we were rewarded with information centre. Exhibits in your Sites afterwards, when we decided inside relate to how the town has Directory. developed, taking in everything from to climb to the top of Broadway Anglo-Saxon burial treasure to the impact Tower. Dating from 1798, this of the Second World War. impressive 65ft edifice (the brainchild of landscape designer Capability Brown) contains BROAD APPEAL exhibitions dedicated to the likes of Arts and About seven miles to the south-east of Evesham Crafts pioneer William Morris and the Royal is the Club’s Broadway site, our next stop and the Observer Corps. A stop in the nearby Morris & Brown cafe will round off your visit nicely. base for our aforementioned underground The Broadway Club site sits adjacent to the adventure. The nuclear bunker lies on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway, Broadway Tower estate, less than a 15-minute and it is only a two-minute walk to Broadway drive from the site. What an opportunity it presented – we had no previous knowledge of the station, reopened in March last year after a huge volunteer effort. The building was created using huge number of bunkers built during the Cold War. Climbing down a vertical ladder, we entered original Great Western Railway plans – you really would have no idea it was a recent a cramped room where, had there been a nuclear construction. Our trip down to Cheltenham attack, a small team would have lived, isolated from the world, sending information about attack was glorious, taking us through some of the loveliest scenery in the Cotswolds. sites, air pollution and so on to a headquarters. www.camc.com

Food & drink Cotswolds Distillery, Phillip’s Field, Whichford Road, Stourton, Shipston-on-Stour CV36 5HG Contact: cotswoldsdistillery.com, 01608 238533

Culture Gordon Russell Design Museum, 15 Russell Square, Broadway WR12 7AP Contact: gordonrusselldesignmuseum.org, 01386 854695

Outdoor fun Cotswolds Riding, Washpool Equestrian Centre, Stanton, Near Broadway WR12 7NE Contact: cotswoldsriding.co.uk, 01386 584250

For the family All Things Wild, Station Road, Honeybourne, Near Evesham WR11 7QZ Contact: allthingswild.co.uk, 01386 833083

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

31

TOURING UK SITES

4 Pinnock Wood Farm Certificated Location A nice open grass site adjacent to a working farm with cows and sheep. Some choose a pitch with views of the animals; others prefer the extensive countryside views.

Open: all year | Contact: 01242 604189 Sites Directory and Handbook p352 Est

Member view “We chose this site because it has really good reviews and we like small, peaceful sites. We don’t need facilities but we do want somewhere with good walking for us and the dogs.”

John and Julie Carroll, caravanners

“Broadway Club site sits adjacent to a steam railway”

Above: Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Below: Broadway

Site view “There is excellent walking from the site as we are close to the Cotswolds Way and it is central to all the main Cotswolds attractions. The Plough Inn at Ford has glowing reports.”

Julie and Donald Gilder

The Cotswold Food Store & Cafe, Longborough, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 0QZ Contact: cotswoldfoodstore.com, 01451 830469

Culture Conderton Pottery, The Old Forge, Conderton, Near Tewkesbury GL20 7PP Contact: toffmilway.co.uk, 01386 725387

Outdoor fun Hailes Abbey, Hailes, Near Winchcombe, Cheltenham GL54 5PB Contact: english-heritage.org.uk, 01242 602398

For the family Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Winchcombe GL54 5JD Contact: sudeleycastle.co.uk, 01242 604244

32 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

robertharding/alamy

Food & drink

DID YOU KNOW? You can book Club site pitches via the UK Sites app, at camc. appreciated without walking com/searchandbook or by for miles. calling our Advance Booking Service on 01342 327490.

Please call Affiliated Sites STOW AWAY (AS) directly From here we replenished our

Pinnock Wood Farm CL is also well situated for the railway, being within easy reach of Toddington station.

Here you will find a tea room, museum and have-a-go signal box as well as a fantastic narrow-gauge train line which runs for three-quarters of a mile.

Moving eastwards, we spent a lovely few hours at Batsford Arboretum, a beautiful, magical botanical garden. Created in the late 1800s with lots of Far Eastern influences, it is full of different hues and scents throughout the year. From early snowdrops and Japanese Flowering Cherries to wonderful magnolias and summer wildflowers, to the yellows, oranges and pinks of the later months, there is something to suit all tastes regardless of the season. Part of the appeal of this intimate attraction is that it can be fully

supplies with tasty fare from the Cotswold Food Store at Longborough, then stopped in Stow-on-the-Wold to find a very special doorway that we had heard about.

The north door of St Edward’s Church has almost disappeared beneath the wonderfully convoluted limbs of a pair of ancient yew trees, giving the impression of the entrance to a mythical chamber rather than to a beautiful medieval church. In fact many believe this doorway to be the inspiration for the ‘Doors of Durin’ in J R R Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings.

Heading westwards once again, we stayed for a few days at the Bourton-on-the-Water www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

Illustration: Louise Turpin

5 Bourton-on-the-Water Club Site The lovely trees around this site are home to birds including owls and red kites; you may spot deer on site too.

Pitches: 57 | Open: 15 Mar-28 Oct 2019

Member view “This is a beautiful area with really pretty villages, lovely walks and lots of good places to eat. Bourton and the tea rooms are excellent.”

Dianne Eastwood, caravanner

Site staff view “People come to this site for the peace and quiet, there are extensive bridleways close by for great walks and a good local pub guide is available. The Farmers Arms does a speciality rabbit pie.”

Robert and Kate Taylor

34 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

Food & drink Cotswold Brew Company, College Farm, Stow Road, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2HN Contact: cotswoldbrewco.co, 01451 824488

Culture Clarendon Fine Art Gallery, Finials House, The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1AF Contact: clarendonfineart.org, 01451 610067

Outdoor fun Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre, College Farm, Stow Bridge, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2HN Contact: bourtonvaleequestrian.co.uk, 07910 138465

For the family Greystones Farm Nature Reserve, Bourton-onthe-Water, GL54 2EN (see website for parking information) Contact: gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk

Club site which is in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It turned out to be the perfect base for an ‘historic’ day, during which we explored the Roman Villa at Chedworth and Sudeley Castle with its rich Tudor history, before heading far further back in time at Belas Knap Long Barrow.

The Neolithic barrow – or ancient burial mound – is not easy to find. After parking in a wooded lay-by, we set out through the trees and emerged halfway up a hill. The wind did its best to blow us off course and it was a wild struggle to reach the top, but well worth the effort. The structure is a fascinating piece of prehistoric engineering and, standing in one of the numerous side chambers, we felt an eerie connection with the past.

Bourton-on-the-Water itself is ripe for exploration (an alternative base is the little Westward Ho CL, about three miles south of town). The focal point is the shallow, slow-moving River Windrush, which meanders through the centre. Spanned by numerous small bridges, there is an abundance of decent places to eat on either bank – but we were headed for two very different attractions.

First up was the enchanting (and Grade II-listed) Model Village, opened on the www.camc.com

TOURING UK SITES

6 Westward Ho Certificated Location A nicely-sheltered, flat grassy site that is easily accessed from the A429, not far south of all the attractions in Bourton-on-the-Water.

Open: all year Contact: 01451 820424 Sites Directory and Handbook p346

Site view “I have been running this site for 30 years and most of my visitors are people who return regularly.

I have one couple who have been visiting for 20 years and usually stay for a month every year.”

Mrs H Wood

Food & drink

Clockwise from top: All Saints Church and Bell Tower, Evesham; the 15th-century Round House building, Evesham; the north door of St Edward’s Church in Stow-on-the-Wold

The Farmers Arms, Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5TZ Contact: donnington-brewery.com/the_ farmers_arms_guiting_power.htm, 01451 850358

Culture coronation day of King George VI in 1937.

A one-ninth-scale replica of Bourton-on-theWater, it is built from traditional Cotswold stone – it even boasts a model of the model village! Just a five-minute walk away is the wonderfully eclectic Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection. One fun exhibit is a 1923 caravan – tiny and still with the original leaded windows and bowed plywood exterior, it looks enchanting, although it doesn’t quite afford the comfort we expect these days!

BREED APART The village is also home to Birdland Park and Gardens. I defy anyone to resist talking back to the macaws as they strut along the branches over your head. During our visit it struck us how animal and bird parks these days have so very much more to offer in terms of preservation and education.

Another delightful day out can be enjoyed at Cotswold Farm Park (just a 15-minute-drive from the Club site), which has been home to www.camc.com

a variety of rare farm breeds for half a century.

The brainchild of Joe Henson, founder of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, it is now fronted by his son, television personality Adam Henson.

It is huge fun to meet curly-coated pigs, golden long-haired goats, Highland Cattle with their amazing horns, Exmoor and Shetland ponies and strutting poultry. Younger members of the family are well catered for with lots of play and experiences.

From Bourton-on-the-Water we meandered south-eastwards in the general direction of Burford. If you want some joy in your life, follow the signs to the ‘Yellow Hat Tribe Art Gallery’ and Brookfield Ostrich Farm in Church Westcote.

Driving down a narrow lane and turning into a farmyard, we were delighted to discover an exhibition of wonderful paintings by artist Irene Tyack. These feature little people in big, broad yellow hats in numerous interesting and amusing situations. Her paintings burst with vitality and colour and we came away with some beautiful cards – perfect mementos of a special day.

Mechanical Music Museum, High Street, Northleach GL54 3ET Contact: mechanicalmusic.co.uk, 01451 860181

Outdoor fun Lodge Park and Sherborne Park Estate, Lodge Park, Aldsworth GL54 3PP Contact: nationaltrust.org.uk, 01451 844130

For the family The Dragonfly Maze, Rissington Road, Bourton-on-the-Water Contact: 01451 822251

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

35

TOURING UK SITES

7 Burford Club Site This site enjoys a great location adjacent to the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens and within walking distance of the lovely town of Burford.

Pitches: 114 | Open: 1 Mar-4 Nov 2019 Share your love of the great outdoors with friends and family – tent pitches available here.

Member view “We have been members for 31 years and got the badge.

Today we are walking into Burford to explore, as the site staff have shown us an off-road route – much nicer than driving.”

Julie and Ian Young, motorhomers

Site staff view “Burford has really nice, dog-friendly pubs and there are discounted prices available for the park next door and to Blenheim Palace. Lechlade has small pleasure craft on the river and a nice riverside inn.”

Mark and Helena Brearley

Food & drink The Swan Inn, Swinbrook, Near Burford OX18 4DY Contact: theswanswinbrook.co.uk, 01993 823339

Culture The Burford Tour, Burford Contact: theburfordtour.com

Outdoor fun Burford Golf Club, Burford OX18 4JG Contact: burfordgolfclub.co.uk, 01993 822583

The Thatched Cottage, Batsford Arboretum

We finished our Cotswolds tour at the Burford Club site, a couple of miles south of the town. First mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, the town is full of beautiful historic buildings – it is well worth taking a guided tour.

If you do nothing else, make sure you seek out the wonderful row of almshouses.

SHAKES PEER The small shops are delightfully quaint, and the town boasts the oldest chemist in the country.

A quirky eaterie – Honeycott’s Shake & Snack Café on the High Street – provides excellent home-made food, its speciality being an excellent variety of tasty milkshakes. Elsewhere in town you will find a number of lovely old pubs and hotels, and everywhere is decorated with hanging baskets of flowers.

To the south of town is Burford Golf Club which welcomes visitors, while even closer to the site is the marvellous Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens. Covering 120 acres, the attraction is home to 260 species of exotic birds and animals complemented by surprisingly flamboyant planting schemes. The park is actually directly opposite the Club site

entrance, so visiting involves only a gentle stroll over the road – you may even be able to hear some of the animals from your pitch!

During our journey through the Cotswolds, we had made surprising discoveries, seen fabulous wildlife, been transported by beautiful steam trains and explored extraordinary historical structures. Add some of England’s most charming countryside to the mix and you have a holiday that will live long in the memory.

MEMBER SINCE...

Motorhomer Elizabeth Fowler joined the Club in 1996

Cycling | Windrush Valley Cycle Route

For the family Crocodiles of the World, Burford Road, Brize Norton, Carterton OX18 3NX Contact: crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk, 01993 846353

36X April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

This is a journey through some of the most picturesque Cotswold locations, from the starting point in Witney through to the end in historic Northleach. Following the National Cycle Network for 17 miles along paths and country lanes, you’ll pass near the ruin of Minster Lovell Hall, Burford with its medieval bridge and Sherborne village and country estate. With hills that are rolling but never steep – bar a climb into Farmington – this is a classic rural ride.

Route plan: sustrans.org.uk/ncn/map/route/ windrush-valley-cycle-route

www.camc.com

TOURING UK SITES

STOP TOILET OD URS FAST THE SAFE CHOICE FOR ALL CHEMICAL TOILETS AND CASSETTES For your nearest dealer visit

www.elsan.co.uk

Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use www.camc.com

March 2017 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

13

TOURING CERTIFICATED LOCATIONS

CL sites updates CL SITES Also see the CL section of the Club website (camc.com) for the most up-to-date details on all CLs. Pitch fees may be subject to variation – check with the CL owner before booking.

NOTE: CL entries are identified by a unique reference/map number in the 2019/20 Sites Directory & Handbook.

They are listed here using the same number, unless otherwise shown.

NEW CLS ENGLAND DEVON HOLSWORTHY (7m ENE) – Holme Farm CL, Mr Paul & Mrs Donna Bowman, Ford Street, Bradford, Holsworthy EX22 7AJ. 01409 281136; 07738 467662; donna123bowman@gmail.com.

50.834795, -4.226778. Open 1 Apr-30 Sep; 1 acre; dogs; sl pitches;

levelling blocks req; grass; fr £7.50 (pitch + all occ).

NORTH YORKSHIRE STOKESLEY (2m SW) – Oakwood Farm, Mr Richard Adams, Tame Bridge, Stokesley TS9 5LH. 07746 291737; richardadams@hotmail.com.

54.461903, -1.229238. OAY; 1 acre; dogs; grass; fr £10 (pitch + 2 adults).

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 with a pub symbol are located on the site of a public house – some have a pub located nearby (up to three miles away), so please check with the owner before visiting.

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

38 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

CL reference number refers to the Directory.

538 CHELMSFORD – Bumpsteads Cottage. Site now has toilets and showers (exclusive use).

773 MARGATE – Lydden Farm.

Changes to directions as telephone box has been removed. Should now read: In 0.5m turn R in to Valley Rd. 786 TENTERDEN – Forge Meadow Caravan Site. New tel: 01797 270069.

985 SUTTON ON SEA – Dairy Farmhouse. Has WC for exclusive use by members.

1040 CROMER – Grove Farm. Correct opening dates: 13 Apr-31 Oct. 1177 DAVENTRY – Whitehall Farm.

7 nights stay: £110.

1864 STOCKSBRIDGE – Wortley Hall. Site now has shared toilet and shower facilities.

2206 SAUNDERSFOOT – Upper Marros Farm. New email: sally.

ebsworth@btinternet.com.

2210 ST DAVID’S – Treginnis Uchaf Farm. New web address: treginnisfarm.co.uk.

Feb Mag BUNTINGFORD – Mill End Plants. Correct postcode: SG9 0TA.

CLOSURES The following CLs have closed since publication of the Sites Directory & Handbook 2019/20 and the March 2019 issue of the magazine unless otherwise stated.

69 WISBECH – Mrs M Bloom and Mrs C Bloom, Westerby Farm 137 CAMELFORD – Mrs H Brookham, Trewannion Farm 519 WAREHAM – Mrs A Colquhoun, Heatherdown 607 LYDNEY – Mrs E Waycott, Harthill Court Farm 1874 HOLMFIRTH – Mrs F Hinchliffe, Edge End Barn

unsuitable for vehicles towing trailers or caravans. There may also be specific weight, width or height restrictions. For caravan-friendly 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. The reference numbers on this page relate to the 2019/20 edition of the Sites Directory & Handbook.

www.camc.com

the jurassic coast world heritage site at West Bay Bridport

THE NEW PRO SERIES

MULTI-CHANNEL, WATCH & RECORD TECHNOLOGY • Watch one programme and record another on any platform Digital TV or Satellite TV at the same time • Watch a DVD and record a TV programme at the same time • Timer record from programme guide – Pause / Playback live TV

02920 847670 avtex.co.uk www.camc.com

• Instant record on Digital TV or Satellite TV to USB or HDD (not included) • DVB-T2 /S2 Tuners • Frameless design, edge-to-edge HD viewing • Ultra-wide viewing angle • One button tuning • 12v / 24v / mains

WHY COMPROMISE? September 2018 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

39

TOURING CL CLUB OFSITES THE YEAR Avon Bank Meadow CL owners Craig Brown and Sandra McAllister won the 2018 CL of the Year title

Support your favourite CL

We would love you to nominate your favourite five-pitch Certificated Location for our annual awards. Make your selection and you can be entered into a draw It’s time to nominate your favourite Certificated Location (CL) in our annual CL of the Year Awards!

CLs are small, five-outfit sites in diverse locations, from bustling city

centres to remote cliff tops and tranquil lakesides. Many members use them as bases to indulge their passions – whether you’re into golf, fishing, country houses, birdwatching, fell

walking or simply unwinding, there is a CL site for you on our network. What’s more, by visiting a CL you are helping to support the local economy and a sustainable form of tourism.

CL OF THE YEAR 2019 FORM Please complete this form and send it to: CL of the Year Awards 2019, Caravan and Motorhome Club, CL Department, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead RH19 1UA. Closing date is 29 September 2019. One nomination per category per membership number. No photocopies will be accepted.

NOMINATION FOR CL OF THE YEAR Site name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

County and postcode: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NOMINATION FOR BEST CL NEWCOMER Site name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

County and postcode: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

YOUR DETAILS Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..........................................................................

Postcode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Our awards are designed to recognise the very best sites and hard-working owners who deliver a great member experience – so please help us to reward them.

This year, there will be three national CL awards, as well as recognition for Best Newcomer (for all CLs that have opened in the last two years).

To nominate your favourite CL, please visit camc.com/clvote or fill in the nomination form (left), and return it to us by 29 September 2019.

As a thank you for your nomination, you have the opportunity to be entered into a prize draw to win a five-night stay at your favourite CL and an invitation to the awards. For the prize draw, normal Club terms and conditions apply – see camc.com/competitions.

Membership number. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Please indicate below whether you would like to enter the prize draw and which prizes you are interested in: I’d like to enter the prize draw: I would be interested in: An invitation to the awards

40 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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ACTIVITY BREAKS ROAD CYCLING

“Cyclists can ride the same roads and struggle up the same Alps as their heroes”

Jon Sparks / Alamy

Cumbria is a great destination for cyclists wanting to test themselves

42

Road cycling LET’S GO...

Our expert Jonathan Manning says road cycling – whether solo or as part of a group – is the perfect workout for body and mind

R

oad cycling may once have been the preserve of the geeky, gaunt and grizzled, but it’s now a mainstream activity, with the nation’s back roads awash with Lycra-clad riders at weekends. And no wonder – with its intoxicating mix of speedy, thrilling downhills, mind- and muscle-defying climbs and guilt-free coffee and cake, this is a pastime that ticks all the boxes.

It’s sociable, great for physical and mental health and a brilliant way to explore the countryside. Rides and routes can be flat or hilly, brisk or leisurely, short or long, with a rewarding progression as fitness develops.

A keen tennis player is unlikely ever to play at Wimbledon, or a footballer at Wembley, but cyclists can ride the same roads and struggle up the same Alps as their heroes.

Moreover, there are no barriers to entry beyond balance – anyone who has cast away stabilisers can become a road cyclist and marvel at how each turn of the pedals converts so efficiently into forward propulsion. Narrower, slick tyres, a lighter frame and a more aerodynamic riding position mean a road bike rewards effort with speed in a way that can leave hybrid and mountain bikes feeling clumsy and cumbersome.

SPOILT FOR CHOICE In previous issues these articles have described an activity undertaken or enjoyed while staying at a specific Club site, but the beauty of road cycling is that you can do it while staying at any site on the network. The charity Sustrans (sustrans.org.uk) is creating a superb nationwide network of quiet and traffic-free roads, so its website is a great place

to start if you want to avoid busy ‘A’ roads and multi-lane roundabouts. Additionally, the Club recommends a number of routes from its sites (caravanclub.co.uk/uk-holidays/be-inspired/ top-sites/top-sites-for-cycling), while I report on a ride each month on the Club magazine app. Most of these start and finish at a Club site – the three most recent being Brighton, Bladon Chains and Clumber Park.

GEAR GUIDE It may feel as though it takes a banker’s bonus to get kitted out, but how a bike fits is more important than its frame, and the advice of an experienced local bike shop owner more valuable than a helium-light component.

Put bluntly, if you’re comfortable while riding, you’re far more likely to ride again, so it pays dividends to take advice on the right size and shape of bike for your physique, no matter how enticing the online and eBay offers. The nation’s sheds and garages are filled with cobweb-covered race machines whose geometry demanded the spinal flexibility of a python.

Frames are typically made from aluminium or carbon (steel and titanium are a rarity), and while it’s easy to become hung up on the idea of the lightest possible weight, it’s cheaper by far to avoid second helpings of roast potatoes!

For professional riders, who can barely muster 4% body fat, every last gramme counts, but for most of us mortals the bike will tip the scales at less than one-tenth of our body weights, so paying hundreds of pounds to save a kilogramme is a false economy. Good wheels and reliable gears do make a difference, though, so factor these into your shortlist of potential bikes.

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

43

TOURING ACTIVITY BREAKS CLUB SITES ROAD CYCLING

Clockwise from above: Jonathan crests yet another hill; unwinding with a deserved cuppa; cycling gives you the chance to get away from it all

“To keep the miles ticking under your wheels it’s vital to maintain energy levels and stay hydrated” These days, there are two varieties of pedal – flat and ‘clipless’ (contrary to what you might expect, you do actually ‘clip in’ to such pedals via the ‘cleats’ on your cycling shoes). Flat pedals are a wise place to start while you familiarise yourself with a new bike. Clipless pedals provide a more secure connection, with the caveat that you have to remember to unclip before you come to a standstill. The cry of ‘timber!’ can be heard when beginners forget to unclip and begin a slow, stately fall sideways when they come to a stop.

One essential purchase is a pair of ‘bib shorts’, which have a nappy-like pad (called a chamois) in the gusset. If you’re sceptical before your first ride, you certainly won’t be by your second!

With your route planned, shorts on and helmet buckled, it’s time to hit the road.

RIDE WITH A GROUP Rather than heading out solo, you could let someone else take responsibility for planning by joining your local cycling club’s weekly ride.

It can be daunting turning up the first time, but these excursions are a great way to pick up tips, discover more routes and find first-class cafés – all that pedalling torches calories, after 44 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

all. Cycling etiquette should dictate that no one is ever left behind on a club ride, and it’s surprising how slipstreaming makes travelling in a group so much less demanding. In a group, keep a close eye on the riders ahead, and don’t let your front wheel overlap their rear wheels; touching wheels cause crashes.

To keep the miles ticking under your wheels, it’s vital to maintain energy levels and stay hydrated. British Cycling recommends drinking at least 500ml per hour, as well as eating a small snack, such as a couple of bites of a banana, every 20 minutes. When cyclists talk about ‘bonking’ the are referring to running out of energy, and it’s no laughing matter when you’re miles from home. If you’re faced with an interminable hill, select your lowest gear, spin your legs, and break the climb mentally into short sections. It’s easier to convince yourself to reach the next lamp post in 200 yards, and then the next one, than to focus on the summit.

Finally, with the basics mastered, investigate ‘sportives’. These are organised events, with a fee to enter, that have signposted routes of different lengths, feed stations and mechanical support. They’re a great way to try the most interesting, and frequently most challenging roads in a region.

Three (tough) rides to try...

PRUDENTIAL RIDE, LONDON Roads are closed to traffic for this 100-mile August ride, which follows the course used in the 2012 OIympic Games. It has rapidly become the ‘London Marathon’ of cycling events.

Stay at: Crystal Palace, Abbey Wood ETAPE DU DALES, NORTH YORKSHIRE Having hosted the first two stages of the Tour de France, Yorkshire has become the spiritual home of road cycling in the UK. This 110-mile route through the Dales will challenge even the fittest riders.

Stay at: Hawes FRED WHITTON CHALLENGE, CUMBRIA Insanely difficult, this ride mixes spellbinding views with diabolical climbs, including gradients in excess of 25%. Low gear ratios and mental fortitude are essential – the reward for finishing is incalculable.

Stay at: Coniston Park Coppice

www.camc.com

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TOURING AUSTRIA

My favourite things

Heidi Fuller-Love’s tour of Austria includes culture in Salzburg, breathtaking Alpine scenery, fine food and historic sights...

W

e were heading from Venice to Salzburg, near Austria’s border with Germany, so it seemed apt to listen to Julie Andrews singing The Sound of Music during a drive through the Alps.

Our plan involved a week-long tour of this region, where the classic film of the same name was made, staying at a pair of campsites.

However, we decided to spend our first night at The Sheraton Grand Salzburg, a plush hotel overlooking the famed Mirabell Palace Gardens, where the scene featuring the song Do-Re-Mi was filmed. After an obligatory stroll around the park to take photos of the fountain and leafy alleys where Maria von Trapp and her family danced, we set out on a ‘Sound of Music’ tour.

You’re guaranteed to have fun on this four-hour excursion, which takes in all the sights linked to the blockbuster Rodgers and Hammerstein musical and the real von Trapp Family Singers. Highlights of the tour include a photo stop outside Nonnberg Abbey, where Maria was a novice nun, a visit to the gazebo, now in Hellbrunn Palace Gardens, which was used as

46 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

the location for the song, Sixteen Going on Seventeen, and a saunter around the spectacularly beautiful Salzkammergut Lakes region, where Maria’s marriage scene was filmed.

After four hours of touring and singing songs from the movie our throats were parched, so we hopped on a bus that clattered us over the cobbles to Stiegl, one of the city’s oldest breweries.

Established in 1492, it has been privately owned by the Kiener family for more than a century. During an hour-long visit we learned about beer production and the history of brewing, including the fact that local resident Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a big fan of Stiegl beer.

After the tour, Stiegl’s lively ‘bierkeller’ – not a cellar, but a bar with panoramic views over the rooftops of the Old Town – was the ideal spot for a prolonged tasting session. The beer was served with lots of tasty snacks, including selchfleisch (smoked pork) with sauerkraut and dumplings, as well as a spicy cheese mix called liptauer.

Our next stop was one of the two museums in the city devoted to the aforementioned musical

genius. Mozart was born in 1756 in the Hagenauer Haus at No 9 Getreidegasse, and the museum that occupies the site today, with its original furnishings, letters and memorabilia, is the one to visit if you’re short on time.

LOFER ABOUT Travelling via the B21 and B178 roads, which meander through forests and valleys and occasionally cross the border into neighbouring Bavaria, we arrived at Grubhof in Lofer. This impeccably clean campsite, with excellent facilities including a well-equipped spa and several pools, is situated next to the tree-fringed Saalach River. White water rafting fans flock to Grubhof because it’s near one of the most thrill-inducing stretches of rapids in Austria.

During the next few days we relaxed on the campsite or strolled into neighbouring Lofer to use the complimentary campsite card, which gave us access to the Steinbergbad Lofer, a complex of heated swimming pools with breathtaking views of the Loferer Steinberge mountain range. www.camc.com

Historic Salzburg sits on the River Salzach

DID YOU KNOW?

You can book the featured sites by calling 01342 316101 or visiting camc.com/ overseas. For further info, see p225 of the Venture Abroad 2019 brochure

1

Grubhof (site ref: G04)

This family-run campsite just outside the town of Lofer – and close to the cable car that whisks skiers up to the surrounding slopes – is ideal for summer or winter stays.

Touring pitches: 250 | Open: all year

Visitor view “Remember to bring a snow shovel for winter camping at Grubhof.”

Darren Vincent and Dawn Newcombe

Site view “Bring your bicycles with you when you visit Camping Grubhof. Apart from the numerous hiking paths, the Saalachtal Valley also offers easy bicycle routes and ambitious mountain bike trails.”

Robert Stainer

During our stay we hoped to follow the legendary 46km Grossglockner High Alpine Road, which at an elevation of 2,504m is one of the highest paved roads in Europe.

Unfortunately, however, it was closed because of snow. We decided instead to visit the former Nazi fortress, known to many as ‘The Eagle’s Nest’, near the German town of Berchtesgaden.

The journey to Berchtesgaden is spectacular, but the final part of the drive to Obersalzberg – along a steep road next to rolling pastures and a dense pine forest, and framed by the mighty Untersberg mountain – is even more breathtaking.

Our tour guide showed us around the mountain retreat where Adolf Hitler settled – along with his key henchmen – during the Second World War (although his first visit was in 1923). Some parts of Obersalzberg were damaged or destroyed during RAF bombing raids, while others were reduced to rubble in 1952, after it was returned to German control.

Hitler’s Berghof home was demolished, but it’s still possible to see (and stay in) the Hotel zum www.camc.com

Türken, which stands above a network of escape tunnels. We visited the documentation centre, which is packed with interesting artefacts and interactive exhibitions, before taking bus and elevator to reach The Eagle’s Nest.

This mountaintop structure was Nazi Party politician Martin Bormann’s birthday present to Hitler. Now a restaurant, the interior, including a marble fireplace that was a gift from Benito Mussolini, is much the same as it was during the war. We sat outside on the terrace and admired the views over the Alps to Austria.

Back in Lofer, we tried one of the ‘moor mud bath’ treatments for which the region is famed.

Said to purge the body and reinforce the immune system, the baths are all the rage with celebrities, including the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Sarah Jessica Parker. Wallowing in the murky waters doesn’t feel particularly glamorous, but my skin did feel soft and supple afterwards, so maybe there is something to it.

One leisurely hour’s drive later, we arrived at our second site, Sportcamp Woferlgut. En route

Food & drink Bäckerei Tiefenthaler, Lofer 30, 5090 Lofer Contact: tiefenthaler.at , 0043 65 88 82 69

Culture Regionalmuseum Kalchofengut (museum of local history and culture), Unken 25, 5091 Unken Contact: lofer.com/en, 0043 66 47 35 62 124

Outdoor fun Motion Center Rafting und Wildwasserschule white water rafting, Lofer 330, 5090 Lofer Contact: motion.co.at, 0043 65 88 75 24

For the family Toy Museum Salzburg, Bürgerspitalgasse 2, 5020 Salzburg Contact: salzburgmuseum.at, 0043 66 26 20 83 00

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

47

Illustration: Louise Turpin

TOURING AUSTRIA

Sportcamp 2 Woferlgut (site ref: G06) A brand new swimming pool complex, several adventure playgrounds and a spa are just some of the highlights of this child-friendly site within easy reach of both Salzburg and Innsbruck.

Touring pitches: 450 | Open: all year

Visitor view “Experience the breathtaking Hohe Tauern mountains and enjoy the numerous signposted paths, including the herbal trail to the Fürhtermoosalm, starting at the Mooserboden (about 40 minutes), or a hike to the Höhenburg viewingpoint (about 15 minutes).”

Hans van Leeuwen

Site view “Guests should explore the most beautiful road in Europe. The Kaiser Franz Josef Höhe Visitor’s Center above the Pasterze Glacier at an altitude of 2,369m above sea level offers a unique view of the Grossglockner, which will be the goal and highlight of your drive.”

Wolfgang Hofer

48 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

Food & drink Ban Thai Restaurant, Brucker Bundesstraße 39, 5700 Zell am See Contact: banthairestaurant.at, 0043 65 42 21

Culture Vötters Fahrzeugmuseum (vehicle museum), Schloßstraße 32, 5710 Kaprun Contact: zellamsee-kaprun.com, 0043 65 47 71 340

Outdoor fun

we walked in the breathtaking grounds of 16th-century Schloss Prielau, a castle belonging to the Porsche family that has operated as a hotel since 1987. Here we ate delicious trout caviar, pheasant with champagne cabbage and other culinary delights at the hotel restaurant, which looks out on white-topped mountains and their reflections in the calm green waters of Lake Zell.

A luxurious campsite, Sportcamp Woferlgut is ideal for exploring the Austrian Alps, and we had a great day hiking to Zell am See. Backed by the 2,000m-high Schmittenhöhe mountain range, this pretty lakeside town is renowned for its winter sports. It was too late in the year for skiing but we had fun puttering around the lake in a rented electric boat. The skiing can wait until next year.

MEMBER SINCE...

Motorhomer Heidi Fuller-Love joined the Club in 2017

Moor mud bath treatments, Gasthof Bad Hochmoos, Wildmoos Nr. 3, 5092 St Martin bei Lofer Contact: hochmoos.at/en/moor-bath, 0043 65 88 82 26

For the family Marionette Theatre, Schwarzstraße 24, 5020 Salzburg Contact: marionetten.at, 0043 66 28 72 40 6

www.camc.com

o er esi e with you in mind DID YOU KNOW?

The Club offers overseas holiday insurance specially designed for caravanners and motorhomers – call 01342 336633 for a quote

For the things that matter to you We have over 50 years’ experience in providing quality cover that is trusted by our members. e are a b i the tr e se se o the or a o r pro ts are esi e to re e t the ee s o o r members. Any surplus generated goes back into impro i a mai tai i the b

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Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited. Motorhome, Car and Home Insurance are arranged by Devitt Insurance Services Limited. The Caravan Club Limited and Devitt Insurance Services Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Mayday is provided by Green Flag.

www.caravanclub.co.uk

January 2017 The Caravan Club Magazine

4

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£48.00 pitch includes pre-booking, magazine subscriber & club rally area discounts. £10.00 entertainment ticket is when booked in advance. For more information call 01778 391123

TOURING OVERSEAS TRAVEL

AUSSIE ADVENTURE Our independent motorhome tours enable you to discover the very best of Australia, New Zealand, Southern Africa or Canada. This month we head Down Under... tours across Australia, New Zealand, Southern Africa, the United States and Canada? Following itineraries designed by our team of experts, these

Did you know that as well as offering escorted holidays in some of the most exciting locations on the planet, the Club also organises 15 independent

breaks are designed for those who like to travel at their own pace and indulge their spirit of adventure. Remember, you can tailor your holiday to include

extra nights, flight upgrades, and additional stop-over destinations – we can even pre-book excursions for you.

Call 01342 779349 to find out more.

Clockwise from left: a quokka on Rottnest Island; Wave Rock; Kalgoorlie gold mine; Lake Hillier; Perth

WESTERN WANDERER Duration/type: 23-day independent motorhome tour Departs: year-round Price: from £2,499pp, based on two sharing Price includes: outfit hire for 18 days, return flights from the UK to Perth, all transfers, three nights at centrallylocated hotel in Perth including breakfast, Perth city tour, Rottnest Island tour, 17 nights’ pre-booked campsites including electric power

DETAILS Beautiful coastal vistas, stunning natural rock formations, extraordinary wildlife and authentic outback

towns await on this incredible Australian odyssey.

You begin your holiday with a three-night stay in cosmopolitan Perth.

Here you will enjoy a city tour (which includes a tram ride, and cruise on the Swan River) and have the opportunity to visit Rottnest Island, home to the cute quokka – a cat-sized marsupial.

On the fifth day you pick up your motorhome and set off southwards along the coast, taking in the town of Busselton which sits beside the tranquil waters of Geographe Bay. This section of your break could include a trip to the Leeuwin Estate winery or a drive through the Bonarup Karri Forest.

Having travelled inland via the mill town of Nannup and timber settlement of Pemberton, you arrive in Albany, where you can find out about whaling in the region at the Historic Whaling Station. Hunting for whales ceased here in 1978 – nowadays you have the opportunity to see these magnificent beasts on watching trips (depending on the season).

It’s then on to Esperance, which you could use as a base to visit Cape Le Grand National Park and see kangaroos lazing on the beach or the bubblegum-pink waters of Lake Hillier on Middle Island, before heading inland once again for the gold mining

outpost of Kalgoorlie. On this section of the trip you will get a taste of the ‘real outback’ and its stark red colours.

See remarkable Wave Rock – a 110m-long granite formation – near the town of Hyden before heading for the famous maritime town of Fremantle. Here you could enjoy a fishing trip before the final short journey back to Perth.

HIGHLIGHTS Perth city tour and river cruise, see the quokkas on Rottnest Island, Margaret River Wine Region, Torndirrup National Park, Lake Hillier (a pink lake), Kalgoorlie and its gold mines, Wave Rock.

FOR INFORMATION ON THIS TOUR, PLEASE VISIT CAMC.COM/WORLDWIDE OR CALL 01342 779349 www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine 51

TOURING OVERSEAS TRAVEL

SEE THE PASSION PLAY The Caravan and Motorhome Club is giving you the opportunity to share in a once-in-a-decade experience at Oberammergau during 2020 Every ten years the small town of Oberammergau in the Bavarian Alps plays host to perhaps the most spectacular theatrical performance in the world – the Passion Play – and we are giving you the chance to experience it during an unforgettable escorted tour in 2020.

The five-hour production tells the story of the final days of Jesus Christ’s life, from his entry into Jerusalem to his death and resurrection. What makes the Passion Play so extraordinary is that 2,000 people – almost half of Oberammergau’s population – take part!

HISTORY The play has its origins in the early 17th century, during the time of the Thirty Years War and the spread of bubonic plague. Following months of illness, the townsfolk pledged to act out the Passion Play once every 10 years. According to the 19th-century pastor of Oberammergau, Joseph Daisenberger, “from this day forward, not a single person perished, even though a great number of them still showed signs of the plague”.

The first play was performed in 1634, and a production has taken place every 10 years (with a couple of exceptions) since then.

Since 1890 the venue has been the purpose-built Passion Play Theatre – an impressive 4,700-seater venue with iconic open-air stage.

FORMAT The Passion Play is split into two sections, between which there is a three-hour interval. The sections are divided into dramatic performances and ‘living images’ – beautiful tableaux depicting scenes from the Old Testament which are accompanied by choral and orchestral arrangements. The living images are designed to allow the audience to pause and reflect on the stories they have witnessed.

CLUB TOUR We are giving readers the opportunity to witness this extraordinary event during a five-night escorted tour.

Day 1 – You will arrive at the Natterer See campsite (G01) near the famous Austrian ski resort of

Innsbruck. Set beside a lake and boasting breathtaking mountain views, Natterer See offers a wide range of facilities including a restaurant, bar, shop and games room. Once you’ve settled in, there will be an opportunity to meet your fellow tour members and hosts, and enjoy a welcome drink and three course dinner.

Day 2 – Free day to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 3 – Leave your outfit on site and travel by coach to the pretty Bavarian village of Oberammergau in Germany. Having checked into your allocated accommodation in or around Oberammergau, you will take your seats for the performance of the 2020 Passion Play! During the three-hour interval guests will be treated to a three-course dinner.

Day 4 – Return by coach to Camping Natterer See and spend the afternoon at your leisure.

Day 5 – Enjoy the final day at your leisure. Why not visit Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region? It’s less than six miles from the site and can be reached by bus or by following one of the nearby walking trails.

Day 6 – depart the campsite in the morning.

Duration/type: 6-day escorted tour Departs: 22 May, 19 June, 11 September 2020 Price: from £1,825 for outfit plus two people sharing Price includes: luxury pitch for five nights at Natterer See, welcome meal at site, coach transport from site to Oberammergau, one night’s hotel or guesthouse accommodation on night of the play (in the Oberammergau area), ‘Category 1’ tickets for the play (highest category available), three-course dinner during the play’s interval, cold buffet breakfast the next morning, return coach transport to campsite, tour host assistance Price doesn’t include: ferry crossings, Red Pennant overseas holiday insurance

Left: the town of Oberammergau, with its impressive, purpose-built 4,700-seat theatre

To book your place on this unforgettable tour, please visit camc.com/oberammergau or call 01342 488711 52 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

www.camc.com

The Passion Play tells the story of the final days of Jesus Christ’s life and features a huge cast

To book your place on this unforgettable tour, please visit camc.com/oberammergau or call 01342 488711 www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

53

MEMBER OFFERS SPECIAL DEALS

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ENJOY FANTASTIC SAVINGS ON DAYS OUT Whether you like to visit grand, historic mansions, take trips on steam trains or raise adrenaline levels with exciting activities, the Great Savings Guide has something for you. We’ve partnered with over 900 attractions, companies and venues across the UK and Ireland to bring you savings on superb days out, so it’s well worth taking advantage of this great member benefit. Here are some examples of the available offers, but you can view the full range at camc.com/greatsavingsguide and order your free guide.

SAVE 10% ON ENTRY TO BIRDLAND PARK & GARDENS Discover exotic and rare birds from around the world in nine picturesque acres of gardens with riverside walks at Birdland, set in the beautiful Cotswolds village of Bourton-on-the-Water.

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museum with its extensive royal car collection, the country park and much more – a must if you’re staying at the Club site.

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1/3 OFF FULL PRICE ADMISSION FOR UP TO FOUR PEOPLE AT BEAULIEU Discover the many delights of one of the UK’s leading attractions, which includes the Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection. One ticket grants access to the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Gardens, Beaulieu Abbey, World of Top Gear and more – a great day out in the New Forest.

TWO-FOR-THE-PRICE-OF-ONE ON THE EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY Board one of the East Lancashire Railway’s heritage steam and diesel trains and take a journey into yesteryear, with the rolling green hills and charming villages of the beautiful Irwell Valley as a backdrop.

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Information correct at time of publication. Terms and conditions apply to all member offers – see camc.com/greatsavingsguide for details

54 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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Members can also save on camping, with prices starting from £36.75 per night. See page 15 for more details, or see camc.com/bbc-countryfile-live-offer.

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PowerCases is a provider of portable power solutions for vehicles, smartphones, tablets and computers, and Club members can take advantage of fantastic savings on its products. It has recently introduced a range of jump starters – handy back-ups for your car, motorhome or motorcycle – as well as Camping Buddy, a 500W portable generator.

See camc.com/powercases for more information.

Information correct at time of publication. Terms and conditions apply to all member offers – see camc.com/memberoffers for details

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April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

55

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LETTERS YOUR VIEWS

Letters Send your letters to Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA. Alternatively, email us at enquiries@camc.com or magazine@camc.com. Apologies, but due to the quantity of post we receive, we are no longer able to send acknowledgements on receipt of letters. If your letter is not intended for publication, please email or write to the appropriate department (eg Emergency Services, Finance, Insurance, Technical, Travel Services, Sites Operations etc) – see camc.com/contact for further details.

enquiries@ camc.com

www.camc.com

Your chance to have your say.

The writer of our star letter will receive copies of our three-edition overseas touring guides CL of approval Having taken early retirement from a rather stressful job at age 59 and having suffered a heart attack some four years ago, we are having to manage a rather tight budget, certainly for the next couple of years, due to financial commitments.

At first, we thought that the regularity of our caravanning trips would have to be somewhat curtailed due to reasons of cost. It was then that some fellow campers advised that we should in fact try

Double dose Richard Morley’s surprise at having to buy two vignettes for car and caravan in Switzerland is understandable and not a popular fact here either (Letters, February issue).

However, I have a tiny correction to his information. The vignette can be bought and used in December, eg 2019, then used through until the end of January 2021 – ie 14 months.

Obviously this will only be of interest to winter campers.

Should any members consider a holiday in Switzerland, summer or winter, please do research the Bad Ragaz area.

The Tectonic Arena Sardona/ World Heritage Site, Tamina Gorge (summer only), Tamina Valley, Heidiland, Rhine paths and cycleways, lakes, mountains, wildlife, vineyards, thermal water, open-air pools, ice fields etc, etc, will keep you interested and active.

Myself, I am looking forward to my next UK holiday!

Pamela Zwicky, via email

Small price to pay I would like to inform you that the information given by Richard Morley in your Letters section (’Double Trouble‘, February issue) is wrong. The validity of the

staying on Certificated Locations as a way towards reducing costs.

I have to say that we have now visited a CL site, and we very much enjoyed the experience. The site concerned did not have any shower amenities and we therefore used our ‘on board’ facilities which worked perfectly.

The proprietors were simply superb, helpful and most welcoming. We have now booked to go back in September, though ahead of this, and for our main

holiday, we are visiting a CL in Cornwall for two weeks (with a two-night ‘stop over’ at a CL in Gloucestershire to break the journey). In August we are staying on a CL near Leyburn for seven nights, too!

As you can see, CLs are a great way to continue enjoying frequent holidays in our caravan while still managing the constraints of our budget.

Tim and Jill Cramp, West Yorkshire

Beautiful Solothurn in Switzerland

Swiss vignette is from 1 December until 31 January of the next year, and therefore covers more than 12 months.

Furthermore, I am a little bit surprised in reading his statement “anyone attracted to go to Switzerland on a tight budget should be aware of the double vignette requirement when travelling with a caravan.” We are talking about £31 [per vignette] which I do not think should be a financial problem for [anyone] who is going on holiday.

Anyway, I do hope he enjoyed his stay in my country and will hopefully come back again.

I will surely visit the UK again.

Mario Orlando, Ticinio, Switzerland

Bass bother I’m not ‘Victor Meldrew’, I’m a 35-year-old who enjoys caravanning with my girlfriend and we have used this to have many exciting trips to things such as Notting Hill Carnival, Guns N’ Roses live and the Edinburgh Fringe.

However, we’re becoming increasingly frustrated by the bass levels of motorhome sound systems. I’ve nothing against motorhomes – I think they are great – but many people seem to be unaware of the fact that they usually have some sort of subwoofer built in, meaning that any sound coming out of them is much

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

57

LETTERS YOUR VIEWS ‘bassier’ than the volume level users have selected.

Often, we can’t hear the television or music we’re playing from our ‘normal’ radio over the top of this bass, and, often as the occupants are usually unaware of the bass levels, the noise can go on past midnight.

Please spread the word! I’m not suggesting anyone is doing this on purpose and most would be mortified if they knew. Maybe also an issue worth highlighting with site staff to be aware of during their rounds?

Chris, Northumberland

Wastwater with Scafell Pike in the background

Access issues

Pike pointers

My wife and I have been caravanners for 55 years. It has been an important part of our lives through this time.

Unfortunately, my wife has recently become very ill and has had one of her legs amputated. It would mean a lot to us to be able to continue our love affair with caravanning but we need advice and guidance.

I have looked with no success for information on the internet. This must be a problem that others have faced but I can find no evidence of their solutions to the problems that we now face. The main problem is how to enter and leave the van.

Can any one help?

Frank Ledger, via email

I read your article ‘A Mountain to Climb’ in the February issue with interest. I have a particular interest in the section on Scafell Pike, being a team leader for Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team, which covers Scafell Pike.

I was very pleased to see you mention the importance of a map and compass and would like to let your readers know that there are

Editor’s reply: Thank you for the email – I’m sorry to hear of your wife’s illness but wish you many more years of happy caravanning together. We currently have a page on the Club website that may be of help: caravanclub.co.uk/advice-andtraining/technical-advice/disabilitiesand-special-requirements. In the meantime, do you use our Club Together forum (caravanclub.co.uk/ clubtogether)? You may need to register (if you haven’t done so before), but if you post your query there I’d imagine lots of our members will be able to offer advice.

Look to the future We have a 2012 Bailey Orion 430/4, approximately 21ft long, fixed double bed, full rear washroom and it suits us perfectly.

At the recent NEC show I thought I would see if there was a suitable replacement. I found that of the two

biggest UK manufacturers, Bailey only make one such van, the successor to ours. Swift makes a similar one but with tiny shower/toilet alongside the bed. Every other van with a fixed bed comes in a unit at least 24ft long and significantly heavier.

With the advent of hybrid cars, and a ‘get rid of diesel cars’ mentality, surely we need more vans about 21ft long with the much-loved, fixed-double-bed layout and a decent full washroom?

Very soon I suspect there will be a rapid increase in demand for this smaller van/layout and a lot less for the bigger and wider ones with all the extra stuff that just adds weight.

Wake up to reality caravan makers! The market is about to change. (With apologies to any other caravan makers I didn’t find with a van like mine.)

Mike Earnshaw, Nottinghamshire

Pass notes I read with some alarm the side note on page 40 of the March edition of the magazine regards visiting

58 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

large areas of Scafell Pike (and many other areas in the Lake District) where there is no mobile phone reception – so a phone should not be relied upon for navigation or to phone for help.

Probably one third of our call-outs could be avoided if walkers could navigate (ie use a map and compass) and had a torch (each).

You are quite correct when you say it is still a tough hike – it catches people out as they think it will be shorter and easier than Snowdon or

Ben Nevis. Getting lost leads people into dangerous ground, and we have fatalities every year because of this.

Our website, wmrt.org.uk, has information and photographs which visitors may find helpful.

The drive from Dockray Meadow campsite to Wasdale Head could take up to an hour and I think allowing five to six hours for the walk is not unrealistic.

Penny Kirby, Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team

Applecross via the Bealach-na-Ba. While the Applecross Peninsula is a fantastic place to visit, both the Bealach and the road from Applecross to Shieldaig are single-track roads with passing places. There has been tension on such roads in the Highlands caused by some drivers of motorhomes failing to use passing places to allow people to overtake, being unable or unwilling to reverse to allow other vehicles to pass, parking in passing places, and on occasion failing to give precedence to emergency vehicles attending incidents.

The Bealach-na-Ba is unsuitable for any car towing a caravan. This road has a steep incline (and descent – on both sides), sharp bends and few passing places suitable for the length required for a car towing a caravan.

If motorhome drivers choose to use the Bealach-na-Ba road, please use the passing places wisely, being courteous to other road users, especially emergency service vehicles, and allow them to overtake as you grind your way up the hill!

Please visit the north-west Highlands, but do ensure the roads you use are suitable for your vehicle

and your vehicle is suitable for the roads you will use.

John McConnachie, Moray

Kneel appeal You have asked for tips – here are three! Since having sore knees after pegging our caravan awning out, especially on hardstandings, I had the idea of taking our garden kneeler away with us. It makes a tremendous difference. My knees no longer hurt and the handles make it much easier to get up and move to the next section.

Removing the pegs is easier when using the kneeler too.

We use a clothes dryer that hooks over a caravan window ledge. For many years we have protected our caravan from potential rubbing by the dryer by slipping a piece of pipe lagging over the appropriate bar. Job done!

So many caravan curtains and blinds are too short, so that light still gets underneath them in the morning. Another piece of pipe lagging clips easily to the bottom of the blind and fills the gap very neatly.

No more too-early mornings!

Rosanne Richardson, via email

www.camc.com

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November 2016 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

5

LETTERS YOUR VIEWS

Electric dreams With reference to ‘A fair market?’

(March Letters). Having wondered about the feasibility of towing with an electric vehicle or hybrid it occurred to me that the obvious solution is self-powered electric caravans.

They could be very suitable: with a huge flat floor area for underslung battery storage (accessible and replaceable) and intelligently controlled electric motors on each wheel. An electric caravan would become virtually weightless for towing in spite of the extra batteries.

Half your journey is downhill, with all that kinetic potential providing

regenerative braking. The vast battery capacity would supplement main vehicle power and range and could allow less powerful towcars to be used.

Some say that a critical part in the future of domestic electric power will be home storage for your rooftop solar supply or off-peak storage for your electric car. A caravan with a massive battery would give you this – and when at home, could even power your home or recharge your car.

Chris Trim, Suffolk

Ring mastered

Editor’s note: You may be interested in the Erwin Hymer Group's concept vehicle – see erwinhymergroup.com/ en/news-and-press/news/ dethleffs-ehome-coco

After reading the tip on how to keep coat hangers on the rail (‘Top tips’, March Letters), I thought I’d share my tip and attach a photo.

I bought a pack of six shower

curtain rings (£1.20) and threaded them through the wardrobe rail.

Now I thread my clothes hangers into the little holes at the bottom.

Thank you for a wonderful magazine that both my husband and myself enjoy reading.

Eirwen Ayling, via email

Your discussions Here’s a sample of the stories and discussions you can find on our Club Together forum. See camc.com for more…

Our first trip out...

After our first experience of caravanning we decided to invest in a motor mover. Wow what a difference it makes, especially getting ‘Dora’ (our Xplore 402) into a hedged corner on my drive.

We decided we wanted to stay near home and booked a night at Chapel Lane campsite near Birmingham. Apart from only being 30 miles from home, what attracted us to Chapel Lane was the hardstanding pitches. It had snowed (very lightly) the night before and we didn’t fancy Dora getting stuck in grass.

Our drive to the campsite was non-eventful – thankfully. Although I do think campsites should have a complimentary masseuse on site as my shoulders were so tight after the drive. Is it normal to have tight shoulders after driving? I guess I need to relax a little more, hey!?

It only took us 20 minutes to get pitched, from hitching Dora off the car to putting the kettle on. My daughter brought a friend with her – she hadn’t been caravanning before and took to it like a duck on water. She has the bug.

Our afternoon was spent walking the dog, playing board games, and getting dinner ready for the evening. We were thoroughly relaxed. After a glass of wine with dinner and a good film, it was time to snuggle down and sleep. We

afternoon we spotted a couple of brimstone butterflies.

Nelliethehooker

Chapel Lane Club site

Good day out at Leighton Moss RSPB reserve. Highlights, apart from the weather, being a female merlin that provided plenty of entertainment, a noctule bat flying around at 2 o’clock on a February afternoon and some Scarlet Elf Cup mushrooms. The day was a delight.

Wherenext woke with the car covered in ice as it was yet another cold night – but we didn’t feel it – it was so cozy in our little caravan.

Oh how we love the caravan lark.

Thanks for reading.

AndreaMac Glad you enjoyed your trip. This caravan lark is addictive isn’t it.

Oneputt Sounds perfect! Really pleased you had a wonderful time. If you do want a massage on site, check out Love2Stay Affiliated Site.

I believe there might be a spa!!

Rowena

Well done to you and your daughter. Lots more time away to look forward to. Enjoy your travels.

JayOutdoors

Spotted on tour We’ve had tawny owls calling, close by, from 6.30pm last night, on and off throughout the night and again tonight. This morning there was a yellowhammer and skylarks singing as I took Flyte for his first walk. Then while walking through Allerthorpe Common Woods this

We would love to hear more about your touring adventures!

Please email us at

magazine@camc.com

60 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

Spring has arrived. Had two lizards about 1 metre from my chair deciding it was time. Wow not seen that before and very close. Also had 20 red kites flying over going north-east and the other day had an unusual magpie in the field. Very off white and a light chocolate colour – not seen that before.

RedKite Main thing round here in our part of the SW just now – woodpeckers drumming just about everywhere. brue Not sure (it had its back to me) – I think a hobby was sitting on our garden wall this morning. It could possibly have been a male sparrowhawk but I definitely could see some red colour low down on its front. A female sparrowhawk had been lurking in our willow earlier in the day hoping to catch one of the many small birds that sit in the branches. the sweetman

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COUNTRY MATTERS BLACK-NECKED GREBE

Grebe David Chapman reports on a colourful – and successful – species originating in Eastern Europe

62 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

www.camc.com

is www.camc.com

good April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

63

COUNTRY MATTERS BLACK-NECKED GREBE

APRIL LOOK OUT FOR If you would like to try and spot black-necked grebes, it would make sense to familiarise yourself with the other British grebes first: n The little grebe is more common and less colourful than the black-necked grebe n Great crested grebes are much larger and very common n The Slavonian grebe is only found in northern Scotland

Clockwise from above: Slavonian grebe; great crested grebe; little grebe

Y

ou would be forgiven for thinking that you need to travel to remote areas of the countryside to spot Britain’s rarest breeding birds – but this is not always the case. One very good example, the black-necked grebe, has a breeding population that is usually lower than 50 pairs, yet most of those can be found close to large urban populations in the north of England. It has an interesting history in the UK and, unlike many other birds that are on the edge of their range here, its story isn’t one of decline.

Its heartland is in Eastern Europe, where numbers are traditionally quite high. It is thought that climate change and the associated lowering of water levels in the lakes of the Caspian region towards the end of the 19th century might have forced their population to move slightly north and west. It was in 1904 that the black-necked grebe colonised Britain, first breeding in Wales and then England and Scotland.

At the time it probably seemed likely that the birds would gradually increase in range and number within the UK, but progress has actually been painfully slow. Breeding birds have a low productivity rate and seem very fickle in their choice of locations. They prefer shallow, eutrophic lakes – those containing plenty of plant matter – and make their nests from floating vegetation such as lilies, reeds and amphibious bistort.

Unlike the more robust great crested grebe, the black-necked cannot cope with disturbances and

64 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

shuns lakes used for water sports. However, they do seem to benefit from nesting close to colonies of black headed gulls – probably because they inadvertently offer protection from predators.

In the early 1970s, our breeding black-necked grebes were confined to the Scottish central lowlands, but since then their nucleus has shifted south to Yorkshire and Cheshire. Last year, about a quarter of the total British population was found at one reserve – RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Park in Leeds – while almost another quarter was located at Woolston Eyes Nature Reserve near Warrington.

Their breeding season begins in April with a courtship ritual similar to, but not as elaborate as, the great crested grebe. The wonderfully stripy chicks are born from late May, and soon leave the nest, often opting to ride on their parents’ backs to stay safe, warm and dry. Each pair usually has two chicks with an adult being responsible for one youngster at a time. They feed mostly on aquatic larvae, insects and occasional small fish.

In their breeding plumage, black-necked grebes are remarkably attractive birds. Their dumpy, fluffy bodies are reminiscent of little grebes but the golden plumes behind their red eyes make a striking contrast to their black necks.

Later in the season, they moult and migrate south. Their black and white winter plumage is quite drab, though they retain their striking eye colour. Some birds travel as far as Africa but many British-born birds over-winter along the south

coast of England, frequenting coastal waters such as Langstone Harbour in Hampshire and the Fal Estuary in Cornwall.

During the breeding season these birds are protected from any form of disturbance by law.

Please report any issues to the reserve warden.

GREBE WATCH Where to stay to see black-necked grebes Sites: Knaresborough, Bolton Abbey, Hebden Bridge

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All located within a 40-minute drive, these are probably the best locations for visiting RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Park.

Site: Chester Fairoaks This site is about half an hour’s drive from Woolston Eyes. At the reserve there is limited public access along footpaths, otherwise a permit is required.

To book, open the UK Sites app, visit camc.com/searchandbook or call our Advance Booking Service on 01342 327490.

Please call Affiliated Sites (AS) directly.

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CALENDAR GREAT DAYS OUT

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CALENDAR GREAT DAYS OUT

Events diary Need inspiration for a fantastic day out while staying on a Caravan and Motorhome Club site? Then look no further than this selection of events taking place near our sites in June 2019 25-30 JUNE Hever in Bloom The gardens of Hever Castle – childhood home of Anne Boleyn – become a riot of colour during late June.

Guests can enjoy superb outdoor displays featuring more than 4,000 roses, while, inside the castle itself, you can view rose-themed displays. While you are there, be sure to view the new permanent art exhibition in the Long Gallery, guest curated by David Starkey.

Web: hevercastle.co.uk/ whats-on/hever-in-bloom Club site: Alderstead Heath

“Guests can enjoy superb displays featuring more than 4,000 roses”

11 JUNE

6-8 JUNE Royal Cornwall Show Head for Wadebridge for the county of Cornwall’s largest annual show.

Entertainment in the main ring this year will include competitive showjumping, the ‘AdrenalineTour’ featuring two- and four-wheeled stunts by Jason Smyth and numerous parades of prize-winning livestock and horses. Other highlights include a steam fair, dance festival, street theatre, blacksmiths’ competition and Food and Farming Pavilion.

Web: royalcornwallshow.org Club site: Treamble Valley

Antiques Roadshow at Lytham Hall The crew of BBC favourite Antiques Roadshow will be filming at beautiful Georgian, Grade I-listed Lytham Hall, so raid the loft, dig out that dusty family heirloom and take it along for appraisal by the renowned team of experts between 9.30am and 5pm. Entry to the show is free – everyone is welcome and no tickets or pre-registration is required.

Web: lythamhall.org.uk/ antique-road-show Club site: Blackpool South

15 JUNE Zip World Rocks Set against the backdrop of Penrhyn Quarry, the 2019 line-up for this North Wales music festival includes Cast, Mike Peters of The Alarm and Miles Hunt of The Wonder Stuff. Food and drink will be available on site from

a variety of local vendors and suppliers.

The event is held in aid of the Love Hope Strength Foundation, a charity which raises money to help cancer sufferers, survivors and their families though innovative music events.

Web: zipworld.co.uk/ zip-world-rocks-2019 Site: Riverside AS

22-23 JUNE ScottishTraditional Boat Festival The harbour town of Portsoy, on the Moray Firth coast of north-east Scotland, invites allcomers to a celebration like no other. As well as competitive racing on the open seas, visitors are treated to a fantastic selection of local food and music.You can also watch traditional craftsmen and women at work – and pick up a special souvenir.

Web: stbfportsoy.org Site: Huntly Castle AS

For further details of events near Club sites, see camc.com

www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

67

CALENDAR GREAT DAYS OUT

Events diary ...Alternatively, why not pitch up on a temporary site? These enable you to attend a wide variety of exciting events and meet up with likeminded members. Please book in advance where possible 7-9 JUNE

5-6 MAY Truckfest Peterborough’s East of England Showground welcomes more than 2,000 trucks, including the vehicle from the classic 1970s film, Smokey and the Bandit. Watch monster truck and motorcycle stunt displays and enjoy fireworks and music from Madness and Oasis tribute acts.Two nights’ entertainment are included in your fee.

The temporary site on the showground has hook-ups, toilets, basic washrooms, fresh water and chemical disposal.

Temporary site open: 3-7 May Contact: Sandie and Alan Evans on 01767 640263/07887 541762 or email sandiejevans@gmail.com

8-12 MAY Royal Windsor Horse Show Watch the world’s best horses and riders take part in carriage driving, showjumping, dressage, polo and endurance competitions, and enjoy displays from the King’sTroop and the Household Cavalry. OnThursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, a spectacular 90-minute pageant will take place to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Queen Victoria.The temporary site on Windsor Racecourse has hook-ups, fresh water and waste disposal, but no toilets or washrooms.

Temporary site open: 8-12 May Contact: RuthTaylor on 01753 545142 or email taylorg13@sky.com

Retrofestival Head for Newark Showground for a celebration of all things retro – from the 1920s to the 1980s. Classic cars, bikes and scooters, steam engines, vintage aircraft and fashion and music from different eras will ensure you are entertained. Add a vintage funfair and more than 300 stalls into the equation and there is something for everyone.

The temporary site, with hook-ups, is on the showground – access to the site is based on each person having a valid festival weekend ticket.

Temporary site open: 6-10 June Contact: Stuart on 07813 254260 or email berkshirecc@gmail.com – for bookings, go to berkshirecentre caravan club.co.uk (a non-returnable £50 deposit will be requested on receipt of booking)

15-16 JUNE Wings & Wheels Fascinating aircraft and car displays will greet visitors to this Dunsford Park in Surrey show. As well as aerial treats from the likes of the Red Arrows, you will be able to view supercars from the likes of Ferrari and Aston Martin, plus military vehicles and monster trucks.

Children will love Sid’s Zone, where arts and crafts are the order of the day, while Blitz, a 1940s songbird trio, are sure to be a hit with music lovers.The temporary site is at nearby Loxwood, just a few miles away.

Temporary site open: 14-16 June Contact: Nick and Julie Eagleton on 07947 359691

18-19 JUNE The Royal Cheshire County Show Clay House Farm in Knutsford is the venue for a celebration of farming and the countryside. As well as livestock and other animals, you will see monster trucks, dog and horse shows plus live milking, ice cream making and sheep shearing demonstrations. Add vintage machinery, food and music into the equation and it is easy to see why this is one of the most popular shows of its type in the UK.The temporary site

68 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

opposite the showground has fresh water and chemical waste disposal.

Temporary site open: 16-21 June Contact: Paul Bowler on 01782 513276/07974 107078 or email bowler. rallies@btinternet.com

are available. Henley town is a short walk from the temporary site.

Temporary site open: 3-8 July Contact: Hazel and Andy Bridle on 07789 815299 or email henley@ upperthamescentre.co.uk

29-30 JUNE

19-21 JULY

Bloxham Rally Held at Smiths Fields in Bloxham, near Banbury, this fair brings together steam engines, classic cars, motorcycle display teams, Spitfire displays, a working farm area, an arts and crafts fair, falconry and evening entertainment.The temporary site (no toilets or hook-ups) is adjacent to the showground and your pitch fee includes entry to the show.

Temporary site open: 28-30 June Contact: MarionTanner on 07761 933532 or email honrallysecretary@ middx.co.uk

The Norfolk Motorhome & Campervan Show Head for the Norfolk Showground near Norwich to browse more than 200 new and used models, pick from thousands of accessories and enjoy live music and a game of bingo. Four nights of entertainment (three nights free, Saturday for a fee) are also part of the attraction.The temporary site on the showground has limited toilet blocks but no hook-ups. All bookings must be made directly with Warners Group, at West Street, Bourne, Lincolnshire PH10 9PH (see showgoer.co.uk for the official booking form – mark it ‘Beds CC’ to ensure you are pitched together).

Temporary site open: 19-22July Contact: Bronya and Martin Findlay on 07818 808115

2-7 JULY RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival Described as ‘a wonderful summer’s day out packed with gardening inspiration, stunning floral displays and workshops in a majestic setting’, the world’s largest flower event is a must for all garden lovers. A free bus service takes you from the temporary site at Apps Court Farm in Walton-onThames to Hampton Court Palace each day. Facilities on site include toilets and showers, plus two carp fishing lakes.

Temporary site open: 30June-7July Contact: Roger Smith on 01403 264155/07768 484821 or email roger. psmith@talktalk.net

26-28 JULY

The Big Cheese The south Wales town of Caerphilly comes to life with an extravaganza of street entertainers, living history encampments, music, dance, traditional fun fair, fire eating, minstrels, troubadours, fireworks and much more.

The temporary camp site on the nearby Caerphilly Rugby Football ground will offer toilets and showers, battery charging facilities and a bar/function room, where a fun evening’s entertainment will be held.

Temporary site open: 25-29 July 3-7 JULY Contact: Martin Cawley on 07789 Henley Royal Regatta 771442 or email chairman@ The world’s best-known regatta is just as famous for being a social occasion as southglamorgancentre.com it is for being a highlight of the sporting calendar. On Saturday evening there is See camc.com/centres a spectacular fireworks display and the river is full of boats.You will be pitched and p111 of this issue close to the river, with easy access to for more centre the towpath where you can picnic and information and watch the rowing.There are no coverage hook-ups but water and waste facilities

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July 2018 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

69

Finding Level

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TOURING UK SITES

DID YOU KNOW?

annamoskvina/getty

You can book Club site pitches via the UK Sites app, at camc. com/searchandbook or by calling our Advance Booking Service on 01342 327490.

Please call Affiliated Sites (AS) directly

SPOTLIGHT ON:

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Battle Normanhurst Court This picturesque Sussex site is perfect for those wanting to travel back in time... or explore the universe!

B

attle Normanhurst Court Caravan and Motorhome Club Site is, of course, located in an area that will forever be linked with the bloody Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Naturally this is a mecca for history lovers, but other attractions for day trips include the popular seaside spots of Hastings, Eastbourne, Bexhill-on-Sea and Camber Sands.

Set with the grounds of a former manor house, the site itself feels wonderfully green. A host of mighty, mature trees and shrubs provide plenty of shade and privacy, while there is a lovely variety of pitching areas (both grass and hardstanding).

Around now, or when spring has finally sprung, is the perfect time to visit – when the rhododendrons burst into bloom and turn Normanhurst Court into a vision of colour.

The friendly site staff keep the facilities (which include a shower room for disabled visitors in the toilet block) spick and span, while a play area will keep any tots in tow happy. www.camc.com

Just three miles away, Battle itself is a lively town with a good selection of shops and eateries.

Its crowning glory is, of course, the ruin of Battle Abbey. Built by order of William the Conqueror, after the Norman and Anglo-Saxon armies clashed all those centuries ago, it is a fascinating place to explore – you can even stand on the spot where King Harold is alleged to have fallen.

You can discover more about the nine-hour conflict at the visitor centre, before stepping onto the battlefield itself. Here you can relive events for yourself, accompanied by an excellent audio guide (a children’s version is available).

If you’re up to the challenge of a long ramble, then you can follow in the footsteps of William and his army by taking on a section of the 1066 Country Walk. This route (which actually extends to 31 miles) through the Sussex countryside starts at Pevensey Castle and stretches all the way to Rye,

Top: Herstmonceux Castle Above: Knockhatch Adventure Park

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

71

TOURING UK SITES

Club Site This site is well place for trips to the famous Battle Abbey and 1066 battlefield.

Pitches: 118 | Open: 15 Mar-4 Nov 2019

“The Observatory Science Centre is home to fantastic interactive exhibits” TonyBaggett/getty

Battle Normanhurst Court

Right: Battle Abbey Below: The Observatory Science Centre

Member view “This is probably one of the best sites in the Club! A lovely varied layout with groups of pitches surround by mature trees and a mixture of grass or hardstanding.”

DiscoChris, caravanner

Member view “I love this site for its nooks, crannies and cul-de-sacs! Always a quiet spot somewhere, sometimes shared with a few others, sometimes just by yourself.

A lovely leafy position, well maintained, with two facility blocks and plenty of service points dotted around.”

OnlyJen, motorhomer

Tony Watson / Alamy

Food & drink The Netherfield Arms, Netherfield Road, Battle TN33 9QD Contact: netherfieldarms.co.uk, 01424 838282

Culture Pevensey Castle, Castle Road, Pevensey BN24 5LE Contact: english-heritage.org.uk, 01323 762604

Outdoor fun Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Lady Oak Lane, Goudhurst (sat-nav postcode – TN17 2SJ) Contact: forestryengland.uk/bedgebury, 01580 879820

For the family Drusillas Park, Alfriston BN26 5QS Contact: drusillas.co.uk, 01323 874100

72 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

taking in the battle site, striking Herstmonceux Castle and numerous picturesque towns and villages.

GROUNDS FOR EXPLORATION Herstmonceux Castle is the perfect destination for a day trip from the Club site.

Surrounded by a moat and set within a huge estate, this 15th-century fortress is a sight to behold. Although the castle itself is not freely accessible to the public (guided tours are available at selected times and dates), visitors can enjoy an array of opulent formal gardens, as well as swathes of woodland. Little ones will have a ball clambering on giant mushroom seats and searching for hidden features in the Magic Garden, too.

Budding young astronomers (and indeed adult ones) will also want to visit The Observatory Science Centre – part of the

Herstmonceux estate. On the site of the former Royal Greenwich Observatory, it is home to fantastic interactive indoor exhibits exploring science and astronomy, as well as large-scale outdoor experiments.

It is possible to explore the night sky through the centre’s giant telescopes on special open evenings (see the-observatory.org for more information).

Junior family members will also be in raptures if you make a stop at Knockhatch Adventure Park near Hailsham. As well as the weatherproof fun on offer in the large indoor soft play areas, there is a dizzying line-up of outdoor activities to get stuck into – highlights include a petting zoo and owl sanctuary, go-karting, boating, water slides, a paddling pool and playgrounds a-plenty.

A break that keeps the kids happy – that’s half the Battle won at least! www.camc.com

NEWS HEADLINES

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March 2017 The Caravan and Motorhome Club

4

SPECIAL SOCIAL MEDIA

SOCIAL

CLUBBERS

Nearly 150,000 of you follow the Club across various social media channels.

Here we concentrate on the colourful, inspirational world of Instagram Our social media team posts regularly on the likes of Facebook, YouTube and Twitter to inspire, inform and entertain our thriving community.

In turn, we encourage members to share your experiences with us, using #inspiringadventures.

WHAT’S THE STORY? Instagram Stories allows users to post photos and videos that, as the name suggests, deliver a narrative as a visual ‘mini’ story. Here’s how it works...

This is where new stories appear

This is where ‘highlights’ appear

INSPIRATIONAL INSTAGRAM n Content shared to stories doesn’t appear on Instagram is all about sharing imagery or your ‘profile grid’ or in the main Instagram feed short-form video. This social media channel has but is highlighted at the top of the app. really struck a chord with our members and is now n The content scrolls like a slideshow – each slide the fastest growing of all the Club’s social media is called a ‘tile’. Video tiles can be up to 15 accounts. Our team mostly posts imagery of seconds long, while photos stay on screen for up beautiful locations near to our sites, but sometimes to five seconds. You can skip past a tile by you might see something nostalgic from the tapping the screen. The two tiles below are archive illustrating caravanning holidays from from a recent story on the Club account about yesteryear. Follow us @candmclub for your National Dog Day. regular dose of the great outdoors. Here is the most n Stories are visible for only 24 hours before popular post from the past month. they disappear. However, tiles can be compiled into a ‘Highlight’ story which becomes a permanent feature on the main profile page (as in the picture below).

This is the grid

SOCIAL MOVES PRETTY FAST In the 1987 movie, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Ferris muses: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it....” Thirty-two years later life seems to have got even faster, with the world of social media moving at breakneck speed.

We aim to be innovative in our social content while also giving you the kind of posts that you enjoy seeing. Over the past few months we have tested, and seen a really positive reaction to, the fastest growing format in social media – Instagram Stories.

FUTURE PLANS We have already used Instagram’s story format for events such as The National and the Campervan Survey results but we also plan to build permanent highlights that act as visual mini-guides to regions of the UK during the coming season. So, if you don’t already follow us, come take a look!

Follow us on social media @candmclub 74 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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We give you more handpicked member offers to help you save both at home and on the road Butterfly Conservation

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Save up to 20% at Costa, Fresh Food Cafe and Restbite

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camc.com/memberoffers Terms and conditions apply, see website for details. Offers correct at time of publication. *12 month Butterfly Conservation membership. Only applies to new Butterfly Conservation members who have not previously joined using a promotional code. **Average saving per year per member.

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PUZZLE CROSSWORD

Crossword

£90

In Club gift tokens to be won 1

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Four runners-up will each receive £10 Club gift tokens.

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DOWN 1 Curve (4) 2 Influential luminary (7,5) 3 Seep (4) 4 Peepers (4) 5 Theatre workers (5,5) 6 Inciting or mixing it (8,2) 7 An additional earner (8) 8 Lofty (4) 9 A stain on character (4) 10 Below (10) 14 Remember a face (9) 15 Molasses spirit (3) 17 A fuss (3) 20 Church spire (7) 21 Mutual contract (9) 22 Squeeze out liquid (5) 23 Newspapers and broadcasting (5) 27 Visited on a whim (7,2) 32 Autumn month (7) 33 Broadcasting installation (5,7) 34 Great accuracy (9) 35 Political rule (10) 36 ----- and crannies (5) 37 Guides from the front (5) 38 Unemotional lip? (5,5) 39 Tactful (10) 42 Maintained and repaired (8) 46 Small child (3) 48 Do wrong (3) 52 Violent public disorder (4) 53 A single object (4) 54 Concept (4) 55 Spool (4) 56 God of thunder (4)

POSTCODE: MEMBERSHIP NUMBER:

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

ACROSS 1 Earth movers (10) 6 Dusk (6) 11 Completely exhausted (3,2) 12 Investigated closely (8) 13 Mud-scouring boats (8) 16 Blow up a photograph (7) 18 Prolonged and angry reprimand (6)

19 Ultrasonic picture (4) 20 Shatter (5) 22 Lady (5) 24 Neither (3) 25 Speak falsely (3) 26 A turncoat (8) 28 Country in Asia (5) 29 Monarch (4) 30 Smooth with an iron (5)

31 Camera portrait (10) 35 Tender handling (10) 39 Bus garage (5) 40 A thing done (4) 41 Stringed instrument (5) 42 Undressed (8) 43 Jeer (3) 44 Tint with colour (3) 45 Corrodes (5)

March solution: Across: 1 Safe 3 Queue 10 Uncle 12 Rude 13 Virtue 14 Steal 15 Cryptic 16 Start 17 Knot 19 Hang 21 Percentage 24 Help 27 Female 28 Goggles 30 Orange 31 Stop 33 Stay 34 Well 35 Toys 38 Goblin 39 Slipper 40 Pebble 42 Task 44 Abbreviate 47 Yard 48 Jinx 52 Spell 54 Thistle 55 Tramp 57 Rabbit 58 Ache 59 Smell 60 Daddy 61 Flab Down: 1 Save 2 First 3 Quest 4 Emperor 5 Early 6 Munch 7 Jetty 8 Freckle 9 Feast 11 Crying 18 Chef 20 Grasp 21 Pheasant 22 Eggs 23 Tale 25 Pygmy 26 Collapse 28 Glass 29 Sneer 32 Trout 35 Tubby 36 Pier 37 Spiv 41 Ends 43 Sixteen 45 Battle 46 Ashamed 48 Judas 49 Cissy 50 Belly 51 Stand 52 Spray 53 Label 56 Stab

FEBRUARY WINNERS £50 first prize: Mrs J Plant, East Yorkshire £10 runners-up: Keith & Jenny Forrest, Somerset; Rita Meadows, Co Durham; Mrs D Prince, North Yorkshire; Mr K Crawley, Stranraer

76 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

47 Proprietor (5)

Narrow (4) grid B 4950 Airless space (6)

51 Vermouth cocktail (7) 54 Cause of an itch (8) 57 Played against (8) 58 Hangman’s knot (5) 59 More insane (6) 60 Contender (10)

Send to: ‘April Crossword’, Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA. Please do not include any other correspondence with your entry

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May 2017 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

113

SPECIAL CLUB AWARDS

PERFECTLY Judge Martin Dorey reveals the 1-2-3 in each of the six campervan and van conversion categories of the Club’s 2019 Motorhome Design Awards An astonishing 99 vehicles were entered into the Club’s 20th Motorhome Design Awards, which were staged at February’s Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show at the NEC in Birmingham. Over the course of five days, a team of nine independent judges scrutinised each and every model, which ranged from

the smallest micro camper for one to a luxurious A-Class for a family. For the purposes of this competition the entries are divided into classes of similar vehicles – so, for this reason there is no overall winner.

Each judge was responsible for looking at a specific area of the vehicles entered – so, aspects such

as comfort, kitchen, washroom, electrics and safety, storage and heating and ventilation were all covered. Although the vans are not driven, driver ergonomics, handbrake position, driver comfort, belted seats-to-berths ratio and travel safety are all evaluated. Finally, a technical judge covers the important aspects

of weights, payloads etc – so, as you can see, no stone is left unturned.

In this issue we reveal the top three in the six Micro Motorhomes, Campervan and Van Conversion categories (we class a van conversion as having a washroom). Coachbuilt, A-Class and Dealer Special classes are covered next month.

CLASS ONE MICRO MOTORHOMES WINNER

WELLHOUSE LEISURE MARTELLO Price: £38,000

Whatever the secret is to designing and building a good micro camper, Wellhouse Leisure seems to have found it with the Martello. The base vehicle, a LWB Citroën Dispatch, is small enough to be your daily driver and yet big enough to fit all the kit in.

Wellhouse’s conversion will seat and sleep four comfortably and is extremely versatile. The rear bed/ seats run on rails that can be moved back to make more living space or forward to allow more room for luggage. Together with the heating,

larger than average work surface area, comfortable seats and good-sized beds for the size of vehicle, this was the judges’ favourite.

As one said, “Amazing value to get an expensive sliding seat system and blown-air heating for under £40k.”

RUNNER-UP

THIRD PLACE

Price: £48,769

Price: £29,995

LUNAR CAMPERS LERINA “A so called ‘micro’ camper feeling like a ‘macro’ camper,” was the way one of our judges described the Lerina. With four berths, roomy pop-top, compact cooker and plenty of work surface, its standard camper layout would really suit a family who love to camp but can’t live with a bigger vehicle. It’ll fit in all but the skinniest of parking spaces (it’s 1.92m wide), under the meanest of height barriers (it’s 1.98m tall) and save a small fortune on the ferry.

What’s not to love about that? It’s a “smart little camper – great as a family’s only vehicle,” said one judge.

78 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

HILLSIDE LEISURE DALBURY S TEKNA Runner-up in this class on previous occasions, the Dalbury had to settle for third. It’s certainly got its merits, especially if you’re a singleton looking for cosy over-nights for one and three

travel seats for days out with friends. And, at £8k less than the Martello, it’s got a lot going for it price-wise, too. “Great to see a one-berth van making efficient use of space for solo travellers,” summarised one judge.

www.camc.com

FORMED CLASS TWO CAMPERVANS UNDER £45,000 WINNER

HILLSIDE LEISURE BIRCHOVER CLASSIC Price: £44,999

This elevating-roof model’s classic VW side-kitchen layout is both practical and stylish – and it is all put together brilliantly. Judges noted the swing-out fridge, good curtains, shower point, comfy seats and its price tag in relation to the equipment supplied. An all-round, great-value van that “isn’t too conspicuous” and “does everything very well.” What more could you ask for?

THIRD PLACE

VOLKSLEISURE ZERMATT Price: £38,995

All of our judges noted that this Volkswagen T6 conversion with a standard side kitchen, swivel cab seats and Corian work surfaces offers excellent value for money. together. If you are looking for one Employing a Reimo raising roof and vehicle to do it all, then make sure Rib bed, the Zermatt is beautifully put this is on your shortlist.

RUNNER-UP

WELLHOUSE LEISURE I-CAMPER Price: £44,800

Wellhouse’s new Hyundai conversion for 2019 really does pack a punch in terms of layout and specification – Eberspächer heating, grill/oven, two-burner hob, fridge, fresh and waste tanks, 6ft-long bed, solar panel, swivel captain’s seat and three rear seats are all part of your standard

I-Camper package. Yes, you might lack a bit of elbow room at the dining table if you’re touring as a family of four, but this is a great value camper on a solid base vehicle. “A little camper with lots of space and a nice finish,” one judge concluded.

MORE INFO... FOR FURTHER COVERAGE OF THIS COMPETITION, PLEASE SEE CAMC.COM/MOTORHOMEDESIGN www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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SPECIAL CLUB AWARDS

CLASS THREE CAMPERVANS OVER £45,000 WINNER

VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA OCEAN Price: £60,915

Since it was reintroduced on the T5 in 2004, the California has been at the top of the campervan food chain – but this is the first time it has been entered into these awards. The fact it tops its class tells you that the Ocean, VW’s latest realisation of the California, is good – it’s beautifully engineered, well laid out and perfectly spacious, yet does not lack in any of the bits and pieces. No wonder then, that one of our judges gushed, “The California is a class act and the king of campervans.”

THIRD PLACE

ROLLING HOMES COLUMBUS Price: £58,140

After a stunning debut in this competition last year, Rolling Homes continues to impress with its VW Columbus conversion. It turned the heads of the judges for its “impeccable solid oak interior” and the zip-off roof canvas, although a potential lack of power from the 102bhp engine was also noted.

“Simply gorgeous. The craftsmanship and attention to detail is uplifting,” commented one judge.

RUNNER-UP

WELLHOUSE LEISURE TRENTO Price: £47,000

The only non VW-based camper in the top three, Wellhouse’s new Trento is built on the Ford Tourneo, a mini-van with twin sliding doors and a great, modern look. The Trento conversion has all the best bits you’d expect from Wellhouse: a decent kitchen, loads of space and a rear bench seat and bed on

rails offering the ultimate in flexibility. One of our judges said, “A cracking family van that’s hard to fault.”

80 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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SPECIAL CLUB AWARDS

CLASS FOUR VAN CONVERSIONS UP TO £45,000 WINNER

GLOBECAR GLOBESCOUT PLUS Price: £44,177

A worthy winner of this category, the Globescout’s traditional wood finish and excellent value for money impressed the judges. With full washroom, a neat turning loo and

lots of storage space under the fixed bed, it’s ideal for couples who don’t want a vehicle the size of a

coachbuilt but still want a little of that ‘motorhome’ feeling. It also usefully offers two additional travel

seats. “A superb van at a terrific price. Gorgeous!” is how one of the judges felt about it.

THIRD PLACE

AUTO-TRAIL TRIBUTE 680 Price: £44,177

Matching its third-place finish from last year, the Tribute 680 was only just pipped by the Benivan.

Another rear-lounge, two-berth conversion at a decent price, this Auto-Trail offers a practical layout – in addition to that large lounge, you get a perfectly useable washroom and a kitchen that should please any

RUNNER-UP

BENIMAR BENIVAN 120 Price: £43,995

touring cook. “A perfect getaway vehicle, even for extended trips, at a cracking price. Excellent!” summarised one judge.

A serious contender for those looking to buy their first campervan.

New to the market in 2018, this is the Benivan’s first outing in this competition – and didn’t it do well!

Competitively priced, the two-berth 120 is based on the mediumwheelbase Fiat Ducato and boasts a really spacious rear lounge/bed as well as an excellent washroom.

82 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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CLASS FIVE VAN CONVERSIONS £45,000-£55,000 WINNER

WELLHOUSE LEISURE TELLARO LUX-XL Price: £46,620

All converters have to make compromises when designing van conversions and, as a result, many layouts end up being similar. Not the Tellaro. For a start it’s based on Ford’s Transit Custom and, with a bench seat-cum-bed, washroom, lots of space in the rear kitchen and a high-top with storage, it is more like a conversion from the 1970s than a 21st-century model. The judges loved it, especially the spacious lounge, well-equipped kitchen and its price. “Fantastic kitchen and lovely, open layout,” said one. “You could take this to the hills and never come back!” opined another. High praise indeed.

JOINT RUNNER-UP

AUTO-TRAIL V-LINE 635 SE Price: £51,767

The V-Line is a very nice van conversion with well-equipped galley kitchen, classic rear lounge and decent washroom. And it’s all been fitted into a Fiat Ducato that you can park up at the local supermarket if you need to. But why would you do something so mundane in it? With Truma heating, wind-out awning, comfortable upholstery, microwave

JOINT RUNNER-UP

WILDAX AURORA LEISURE XL Price: £54,985

WildAx is renowned for producing luxurious van conversions with a difference – and the Citroën Relay-based Aurora Leisure XL is no exception. Well made, this is an unusual three-berth conversion with three belted travel seats. Boasting two distinct living areas – a front dinette/single bed and spacious rear

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and lots of top-locker stowage, it’s begging for adventure. “Wonderful.

Makes me want to drive to the beach, throw open the doors and lie on the sofa taking in the view,” gushed one judge. Quite.

lounge/double bed – the WildAx boasts a big 141-litre fridge and lots of storage. This is a very fine conversion with lots of storage, equipment and thought crammed into it.

April 2019 The Caravan Club Magazine

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SPECIAL CLUB AWARDS

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

MOTORHOME DESIGN AWARDS 2019 CAMPERVAN AND VAN CONVERSION ENTRANTS CLASS 1

MICRO MOTORHOMES Hillside Leisure Dalbury S Tekna Lunar Campers Lerina Wellhouse Leisure Martello CLASS 2

CAMPERVANS UNDER £45,000 Bilbo’s Startline Celex Low-Lie Hillside Leisure Birchover Classic Rolling Homes Shackleton Ventura VR200 Volksleisure Zermatt Wellhouse Leisure i-Camper CLASS 3

CAMPERVANS OVER £45,000 Globecar Campstar Hillside Leisure Birchover Executive Jöbl Design Kampa SE Lunar Campers Jolie Rolling Homes Columbus Volksleisure North Star Volkswagen California Ocean Wellhouse Leisure Trento WildAx Triton CLASS 4

VAN CONVERSIONS UP TO £45,000 Auto-Trail Tribute 680 Benimar Benivan 120 Compass Avantgarde CV40 Elddis Autoquest CV20 Globecar Globescout Plus Roller Team Tolena L CLASS 5 VAN SendCONVERSIONS your letters to The £45,000-£55,000 Caravan Auto-Trail Club Magazine, V-Line 635 EastSE Grinstead Globecar House, East Campscout Grinstead, Elegance West Swift Sussex Select RH19 184 1UA. Wellhouse Leisure Tellaro LUX-XL WildAx Alternatively, Auroraemail Leisure us at XL enquiries@caravanclub.co.uk CLASS or magazine@caravanclub.co.uk.

6 VAN Apologies, CONVERSIONS but due to the OVER quantity £55,000 Adria of post Twin we Supreme receive, we 600SPB are no longer Auto-Sleeper able to send acknowledgments Symbol Plus on Globecar receipt ofGlobestar letters. If your 640 DK letter Elegance is Hillside notintended Leisure for Hopton publication, please IH email Motorhomes or write to IH the680CRD appropriate Lunar department Landstar (egRLS Emergency Services, Malibu Finance,640 Insurance, GTto Technical, Travel Moto-Trek Services, Sites Leisure-Treka Operations EBetc) Elite– Rolling see caravanclub.co.uk/contact Homes Livingstone Vantage for further Neo details.

Volkswagen Grand California 600 WildAx Elara

CLASS SIX VAN CONVERSIONS OVER £55,000 WINNER

ADRIA TWIN SUPREME 600SPB Price: £60,100

This was a very closely fought class, with only 11 points separating all four podium finishers. The Adria was praised for its innovative swing-out bathroom divider, door flyscreen, front dinette, fixed rear bed with loads of storage and massive all-round appeal. Couples looking for a well-made, well-proportioned conversion that’s easy to drive and easy to live in will love it.

“Adria moves its Twin up another gear,” concluded one judge.

RUNNER-UP

IH IH 680CRD Price: £80,262

The new VW Crafter is proving a popular choice as a base vehicle, and with conversions like the IH680CRD it’s easy to see why. IH has created a van that’s more like a small, luxurious flat than a touring vehicle, with intricate detailing, fine finish and super-luxurious

U-shaped rear lounge that converts into a huge bed, leaving space for a fully-fitted kitchen and a great bathroom. What else do you need? “A beautifullycrafted conversion,” one judge said.

JOINT THIRD PLACE

JOINT THIRD PLACE

Price: £72,335

Price: £56,495

WILDAX ELARA WildAx has taken the all-new Mercedes Sprinter and added a luxurious interior featuring a curved front lounge seat, well-equipped kitchen with an induction hob and a huge rear bed with a proper mattress. This van is different, stylish and well made, as you’d expect from the team at WildAx – and in a base vehicle that’s highly desirable.

“A curvaceous beauty – what a fab van for two!” concluded one judge.

AUTO-SLEEPER SYMBOL PLUS If you are in the market for a different take on the van conversion, then make sure you take a look at the Symbol Plus. By locating both the L-shaped kitchen and the washroom at the rear, the Auto-Sleeper design team has been able to offer a large and spacious front lounge, comprising a settee and single seat which combine to create a double bed at night. Open the massive side sliding door, make a brew, sit back in that fabulous lounge and just watch the world go by.

enquiries@ caravanclub.co.uk

84 April 2019 The Caravan Club Magazine

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SPECIAL CLUB AWARDS

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April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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FAMILIES TOURING TIPS

Family matters Lee Davey, wife Helen, daughter Poppy (16) and son Charlie (11) love the great outdoors and the touring lifestyle. This month – packing essentials

Fishing with our small rod As we set off on each new caravanning adventure, I always have nagging doubts that I’ve forgotten something essential. I’m not talking equipment such as the caravan step, Aquaroll or even the crockery (although I have genuinely forgotten these items in the past!), but the fun stuff that really makes a family holiday.

Like most Club members we’ve built up an inventory of equipment that lives permanently in the caravan – things that are light and can lurk under seats and bed bases until needed. There is one exception to this – the inflatable kayak, which lives in the car. Our £80 purchase has travelled with us across the UK and Europe, and (always bearing safety in mind with regard to buoyancy aids, wind, tides and so on), we’ve spent many an hour exploring near the shoreline and paddling in search of ice cream.

The watery theme continues with a small fishing rod and crab net – but care

The inflatable kayak must be taken to remove all pieces of bait after each excursion (a fact we discovered to our cost ).

A site in Belgium (La Clusure, booking reference H09) sold us inflatable rubber rings for use in the river that ran the length of the site and these have been used on various beaches as impromptu seats, and even as a sledge.

But the award for longevity goes to our inflatable sofa. Resembling a windsock and inflated by running madly through the site, it provides comfort on seemingly unsuitable surfaces and has even been used in the shallows to chase the kids in the kayak.

All of the above represent good value for money, are reasonably easy to store and help us to really make the most of our caravanning breaks.

Let us know about your essentials via the magazine (magazine@camc.com).

MEMBERS SINCE...

Caravanners the Daveys joined the Club in 2006

Poppy’s view Dad and I have spent lots of time in the kayak, and whenever we stay close to the sea it’s the first thing that’s packed. We didn’t blow it up enough on our maiden voyage, which made for a short, but entertaining trip, but once properly pumped up, it’s amazing value (Dad doesn’t like to part with money unless he must!). Dad is also the only person able to fill the inflatable lounger with air – he’s received many a funny look as he’s running up and down the campsite!

Charlie’s view Fishing is one of my favourite pastimes and we always have a small fishing rod (that we bought during a caravanning trip to France) and a crab net in the caravan. Luckily, we almost always take bacon with us for a cooked breakfast and crabs seem to like bacon almost as much as I do. One of the best fishing spots was Swanage pier – a short drive from the Hunter’s Moon site – and Stoke Gabriel, close to Ramslade, was the best area ever for crabbing.

GOOD STUFF WHAT TO PACK 1 Big stuff: mountain bikes and inflatable kayak – these don’t live in the caravan 2 Small stuff: fold-up kite, maps, compass, football 3 Seaside stuff: fishing rod, crab nets and skimboard

86 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

4 Relaxing stuff: inflatable lounger and citronella candles (to combat the midges) 5 First aid stuff: plasters, digital thermometer, sterile gauze dressings, tweezers, paracetamol, antiseptic cream, etc

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TEST FORD FOCUS ESTATE 1.5TDCI ECOBLUE TITANIUM X

FOCAL POINTS Lesley Harris puts the latest iteration of Ford’s popular family car under the microscope

88 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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A

fter its inception in 1998 the Ford Focus – which replaced the beloved Escort – became the nation’s favourite mid-sized family car.

It has also proven popular elsewhere – the Blue Oval has sold almost seven million units in Europe, and a mind-boggling 16 million worldwide. Ford has offered a three-door, four-door, five-door hatch and an estate, and now, in its fourth generation, the Focus has been redesigned from the ground up.

This latest model has a more ‘confident’ and eye-catching stance than its predecessor. The large Ford-family grille sits neatly alongside the narrow, horizontally-split headlights, and it’s all finished off with an angular front spoiler. The rear gets a more stylish look too, with wrap-around tail lamps and, in-between those lights, the ‘Focus’ script in individual, satin-finished lettering.

Based on an all-new ‘C2’ platform – which will also underpin future models of other Ford cars – the Focus Estate has had its wheelbase extended by 53mm, allowing the designers the flexibility to play around with the interior dimensions, which they have done perfectly.

COMFORT Once inside you’ll find plenty of adjustment options available both in terms of the steering wheel and driver’s seat – enabling a comfortable driving position. The seats feel supportive but could have done with more padding for my liking.

However, the new layout is simple and smart, and chrome trim details add an extra touch of finesse.

There are plenty of stowage cubbyholes for all your knick-knacks, and a useful central, adjustable cup holder too. Our Titanium X model comes with Ford’s SYNC-3 DAB infotainment system as standard, offering an 8in floating touchscreen that is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford has upped its game in terms of tech, with an array of driver assistance features including Evasive Steering Assist, Brake Assist, Co-Pilot360, Cross-Traffic alerts and many more.

There are also some traditional touches, such as the manual heater controls, which operate the heating of the seats and that all-important heated windscreen. (It all came in very handy during the test, which took place during a recent cold spell!)

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April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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TEST FORD FOCUS ESTATE 1.5TDCI ECOBLUE TITANIUM X

TECHNICAL RATINGS

89%

89%

71%

83%

COMFORT

DRIVING

TOWING

VERDICT

Price as tested

Engine

Kerbweight

Fuel/tank/econ

£26,980 Insurance

4-cylinder in-line diesel, 1,499cc

1,415kg (85%=1,203kg)

Group 16

Power

Gross vehicle weight

Diesel/10.3gal (47 litre)/ 51.2mpg solo/ 40.3mpg towing

Club insurance

Clockwise from above: the cab is a mixture of hi-tech and traditional touches; plenty of rear leg and headroom; large boot; the Focus struggled a little when towing

The Club’s Car Insurance is tailored to the needs of members using our 25 plus years of know-how.

We guarantee to beat your renewal premium by at least £25*.

118bhp (88kW) @3,600rpm

1,955kg

CO2

Torque

Gross train weight

97g/km

221lb ft (300Nm) @1,750-2,250rpm

3,355kg Noseweight limit

80kg 6-speed, manual Towing equipment Spare wheel Detachable towbar (£600) Space saver Transmission

MORE

ON THE

APP

*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-forlike 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.

Most of the transformation, though, has taken place in the back of the car. There is now a copious amount of space for your rear passengers, and most six-footers will find that there is plenty of both head and leg room. Where once there was a large transmission tunnel, there’s now a (nearly) flat floor, so the middle passenger doesn’t have to fight for foot space with others.

DRIVING There’s a good range of both petrol and diesel engine options. We tested the 1.5-litre TDCi EcoBlue, which has 118bhp and puts out 300Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox (an optional 8-speed auto is available for £1,470). The shift is short and very precise, which is just as well as you do have to use it quite a lot, especially when towing – more about that below.

Thankfully the designers have managed to maintain the Focus Estate’s class-leading handling. Stiffer body control and crisp electric power steering deliver an agile and responsive drive. Coupled with its sophisticated suspension set-up, the Focus Estate is, still, a delight for enthusiastic drivers.

90 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

VERDICT TOWING The Focus Estate is still a practical car.

You’ll be smiling while DID YOU KNOW? The boot is large, with 728 litres in driving the car solo, We guarantee to beat five-seat mode rising to 1,620 litres but unfortunately your insurance renewal with all seats folded, for example. The once a caravan is premium by £25*. load cover is simple to remove and, hitched it’s a See camc.com/ usefully, it can be stowed under the different ball game. insurance or call 0345 floor. The car is frugal even when The Focus was paired 504 0334 to get towing, with an mpg figure of 40.3 with a Lunar Venus your quote recorded... and 51.2mpg when travelling 380/2 with an MTPLM solo is very respectable. So, the Focus does of 995kg, and I was deliver as an everyday solo ride, and makes for a disappointed; there’s a fair great family car, but if you tow regularly and/or amount of noticeable tugging at lower cover a lot of miles with your caravan you may speeds, and while this was not uncomfortable, want to look at the more powerful 2.0-litre option. it was irksome. It did smooth out once I had picked up speed.

Unfortunately, the 1.5-litre engine was just not powerful enough for towing – it struggled With thanks to to keep pace with traffic and I constantly needed to change gears on the slightest of Chichester Caravans, Uckfield, for the loan of inclines. Thankfully the gear change is smooth Towcar Test caravans. See chichester-caravans. and easy, but it wasn’t ideal. The Focus Estate co.uk, call 01825 764151 or email: uckfield@ also seemed susceptible to buffeting from chichester-caravans.co.uk. passing lorries. There is an optional convenience Millbrook Garden Centre, Monmouth, for pack of £500, which gets you the rear-view the use of its flowers and outdoor space. See camera for easy hitching. millbrookshop.com or call 01600 713770. www.camc.com

TEST: JAGUAR F-PACE PORTFOLIO 2.0D AWD

Designed & developed to be the best caravan mover

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• Available in both manual and automatic engagement.

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SCM Accredited Approval - detailed test procedure information available to the public.

Insurance discount available with Safeguard, Shield and The Camping & Caravanning Club.

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Lightweight, slimline and easy to store.

Patented design prevents wheel rotation/removal.

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Find your nearest retailer online: www.purpleline.co.uk 01473 601200

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5

YEAR WARRANTY January 2017 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

4

TEST XPLORE 422

SMALL BUT

MIGHTY

Rob McCabe says this good-looking two-berth packs a powerful punch

I

t’s scarily easy nowadays to stroll around a new caravan showroom or forecourt and see window prices on the wrong side of £25,000, not to mention weights that are within touching distance of two tonnes, or even beyond. But there are still options out there that are far lighter on the pocket and that don’t need to be hitched up to a chunky 4x4.

Take this handsome little fella, for example – the Xplore 422 is under 16 grand, weighs less than 1,100kg fully laden and has a spacious interior that belies its modest proportions.

A small caravan, sure – but there’s a lot going on.

BUILD QUALITY ‘Xplore’ is one of the ranges that formed what used to be known as the Explorer Group, now part of the mighty Hymer conglomerate. And, just like its more expensive Elddis, Compass and Buccaneer-branded stablemates, all still

92 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

built in County Durham, it’s produced using the SoLiD construction method, which employs the same techniques used in the car and aviation industries to form a fully-bonded bodyshell. Water shouldn’t get in – and you receive a 10-year anti-ingress warranty to back that up.

Our test example acquitted itself superbly.

Everything on board was placed together tightly and evenly, and it’s nice to see an entry-level model get fine details such as dovetail joints on the drawers and heavy-duty sprung seatbases. All the blinds were smooth and easy to operate – even the sometimesawkward giant one-piece thing that covers the front window – as were the bed slats. There were a few untidy strands of wiring lurking at the back of a couple of lockers, but it’s a good day at the office when that’s all there is to blot an otherwise impressive copybook.

TOWING One of the 422’s biggest attractions is its weight. The most it can weigh, ready for the road, is 1,099kg – and in many cases, its actual laden weight will be less than that.

In other words, you’d have to be pretty unlucky to own a car unable to tow this thing safely and happily.

The other vital stats are just as user-friendly: it’s only just over 19ft long and a modest 7ft 2in wide, so manoeuvring it into restricted spaces is that much easier.

Like almost every Xplore, our example comes with the £469 SE pack – which means it has a very worthwhile AKS Al-Ko hitch stabiliser for added reassurance when towing.

The other benefits of the pack include (very smart) alloy wheels, a steel spare wheel, a wheel-lock receptor and a fitted stereo.

That adds up to decent value. www.camc.com

TECHNICAL RATINGS

Clockwise from opposite: the 422 has a handsome exterior; spacious lounge; functional kitchen; seating turns into extra-large double

91%

94%

90%

84%

BUILD QUALITY

TOWING

DAYTIME

NIGHT-TIME

78%

92%

87%

88%

KITCHEN

WASHROOM

LIGHTING

VERDICT

Price as tested

Beds

MRO

£15,813 OTR

6ft 6in x 5ft 1in double or two 6ft 5in x 2ft 2½in singles

959kg (18.88cwt) Cover MTPLM Please see quote 1,099kg provided in the (21.63cwt) ’Did you know?’

User payload roundel on this 140kg (2.75cwt) page* (inc 22kg SE pack)

Heating

Whale blown-air Fridge/freezer

Dometic Toilet

Thetford

Caravan and Motorhome Club

Overall length

19ft 3in (5.87m) Overall width

7ft 2in (2.18m) Overall height

8ft 8in (2.64m) Max internal height

6ft 5in (1.95m)

Figures from manufacturer’s literature.

*Based on standard new-for-old cover, cover limit of £16,000 (caravan and equipment), £500 contents cover and £100 voluntary excess. Includes 4 + years no claims discount (not protected). This includes security discounts of 15% for Al-Ko ATC, 15% for Al-Ko Diamond Standard wheel lock(s) 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 policy 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. The Caravan Club Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

DID YOU KNOW?

DAYTIME Why on earth would any couple opt for a caravan with a sleeping arrangement that involves having to rearrange the furniture twice every day?

Walking into the 422 and surveying your surroundings will give you the very clear answer.

The lounge is way bigger than you’ll find in most fixed-bed tourers, and it’s impressively comfy, with something to lean into in all four corners.

(Cushion and bolster provision is a bit mean, so you’ll need to go shopping for reinforcements.)

The living quarters in general have an air of spaciousness. Key to imparting this aura is the ‘one room’ benefit of having an end kitchen – most two-berthers have an end washroom that clearly needs to be closed off, thus restricting your living space. The decor is just about perfect, with the curtains and scatter cushions providing a cheerful splash of colour that complements the subtle grey upholstery and the attractivelywww.camc.com

You can cover this grained light wood of the electric, and it’s highly caravan with the Club furniture. efficient. Whack it up high to for £190.51* per year.

While on test duty warm an ice-cold caravan and Please see camc.com/ you’ll be turning it down at Greentrees’ massive insurance or call before too long. forecourt, I had a peek in 01342 336610 for several other new caravans and further details almost all of them suddenly NIGHT-TIME looked fussy and over-done in I totally get the hassle-free luxury of a full-time bedroom. But, equally, I understand comparison to the cool Xplore.

So, it’s very pretty – but practical too. There’s why many caravanners regard the few minutes plenty of storage for a couple, and some of the spent bedmaking at either end of the day as cupboards are so deep it takes 10 minutes for a price well worth paying for all the benefits your echo to come back (okay – fake news alert, mentioned above. but you get my drift). There are just two That’s especially so in a caravan such as this, sections of carpet to whisk out of the way, and where free-running slats and perfectly fitting the smart floor covering underneath is exactly upholstery sections (which you reverse to get an the same as you’ll find in stablemates costing almost totally flat mattress) mean you can have the bed in place in about 90 seconds, ready for the 10 grand more. undersheet to go on. And if you’re using sleeping The space-saving Whale heating system bags, you can pretty much stop the clock at that (it runs under the floor) works on gas or April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

93

TEST XPLORE 422

Left: deep-dished basin is a nice touch Above: separate full-sized shower cubicle

LIGHTING The biggest surprise is in the kitchen, where four, piercingly bright, flush-fitting lamps are built into the underside of the overhead lockers – they are a pleasant change from the stuck-on LED strip that is pretty much the norm in caravan kitchens now, and an unexpected upmarket touch.

Very efficient too.

You can’t really say the same for the lounge, where the old entry-level bugbear of having only two reading lights rears its head again. This is especially a nuisance at bedtime, when someone will either have to do without or turn on the ceiling lamps for a bit of reinforcement, which is far from ideal. Salvation may come in the shape of the mains socket on the front window shelf – a little table lamp brought from home would look good here.

You couldn’t ask for more in the washroom, which boasts a flush-fitting lamp sited optimally right above the mirror and a dedicated light in the shower cubicle.

90 seconds. Either way, the end result is a superbly comfortable double bed, the sheer size of which dwarfs anything you’d find in a fixed-bedder.

You waste even less time if you just use the sofas as single beds – each is nearly 6ft 5in long.

KITCHEN The kitchen looks great in all its well-lit, L-shaped, two-window splendour – but the cost-saving elements of the Xplore are almost all to be found here. The hob has three rings, which is fine, but there’s no electric hotplate among them. Nor is there a fitted microwave, although you can specify one as a cost option, while the grill and oven share the same real estate. The curved bank of overhead lockers and roomy cupboards provides more storage 94 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

space than you’re likely to need, although work surface is at a premium if you’re not able to use the sink cover.

WASHROOM What’s not to like about this washroom? Most showroom visitors to the 422 will, surely, raise an eyebrow when they open the domestic-style door to this room and discover a separate, full-size shower cubicle – a design tour de force in this little caravan. The very trendy, deep-dished wash basin sits in front of a nice, long mirror, and the unit it’s built into includes a cupboard and useful open shelving. A double-doored wall locker provides even more storage, and the blown-air outlet keeps the room toasty in the colder months. Brilliant.

VERDICT Next time you encounter a 422 on site, you’ll have to forgive the owners their slightly smug countenance. They have every reason to feel self-satisfied – the Xplore’s light weight, reasonable cost, cheery disposition, practicality and terrific layout combine to make it an almost irresistible package.

With thanks to Vehicle supplied for testing by Greentrees Caravanstore, Hurn Road, Dereham, Norfolk NR19 1WD. Contact: greentrees-caravanstore. co.uk, 01362 696434

www.camc.com

TEST: JAGUAR F-PACE PORTFOLIO 2.0D AWD

www.caravanclub.co.uk

January 2017 The Caravan Club Magazine

5

TEST SWIFT KON-TIKI 649

COOL CUSTOMER Swift’s Kon-tiki motorhomes have been revamped – and a bigger fridge is just one of the highlights of the six-berth 649. Nick Harding takes a look

L

ast time I looked at a Swift Kon-tiki 649, back in 2017, I mentioned that everything about it was big… except for one part. For such a mighty motorhome, the fridge was on the small side.

Well, that’s been well and truly addressed.

A complete overhaul of its flagship Kon-tiki series for the 2019 season sees Swift retaining the 649 format among a total of nine variants.

It’s even bigger now, too, rocking up at a centimetre over 9m long, which means more living, storage and – yes – fridge space.

Let’s take a look at the raft of upgrades.

(Kon-tiki? Raft? Please forgive...)

BUILD QUALITY There’s no denying the dramatic looks, especially at the front end, where, rather than a more traditional overcab lump, the latest Kon-tikis boast a more swept-back, streamlined design. (The 649 is an overcab-only offering – all

96 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

other models in the range are offered as both low-profiles and overcabbers.)

The range benefits from Swift’s all-GRP SMART construction, with additional premium fittings such as flush-fitting windows, semi-recessed awning, alloy wheels and more.

It all comes on Al-Ko’s double-floor chassis, coupled to Fiat’s Ducato Maxi cab in metallic black. This is a motorhome for all-seasons use, especially as it boasts a fully-programmable Alde central heating system that extends to underfloor heating in the seating areas. The floorplan doesn’t allow for a garage, although there is side-to-side access at the back, plus other external lockers (and a drawer).

DRIVING Tech-savvy motorhomers rejoice. Piloting this behemoth is certainly helped by Swift Vision, which includes cameras monitoring both sides

and the rear. Also standard are ESP with hill-hold, traction control and hill descent – all helpful handling features.

Kon-tikis start with the 150bhp version of Fiat’s 2.3-litre engine, but you can’t help feeling that the 180bhp upgrade (as tested here) is worth having, despite the £2,345 premium. Pay £4,095 and you get both the more powerful engine and Comfort-Matic automatic transmission.

Heated cab seats are standard, too – a real boon.

DAYTIME Space and luxury combine here in a ‘Brit-friendly’, two-lounge floorplan. Up front, there’s a four-seater dinette with fixed-pedestal-leg table, complemented by a short settee. Both cab seats swivel, although only the passenger’s can feasibly play a part in the lounge setting.

The larger, arguably more relaxing, U-shaped lounge is at the back. Here, the www.camc.com

TECHNICAL RATINGS

Clockwise from opposite: spacious lounge; big fridge; ladder access to... super drop-down bed; the 694 is over 9m long

80%

84%

85%

79%

BUILD QUALITY

DRIVING

DAYTIME

NIGHT-TIME

83%

76%

78%

81%

KITCHEN

WASHROOM

DETAILS

VERDICT

Price as tested

Base vehicle

MRO

Overall length

£98,490 OTR

Fiat Ducato

29ft 7in (9.01m)

Engine

4,150kg (81.69cwt)

2.3-litre Euro 6

MTPLM

7ft 9in (2.35m)

5,000kg 177bhp (132kW) (98.42cwt) User payload @3,600rpm 850kg (16.73cwt) Please see quote Torque provided in the 295lb ft (400Nm) ’Did you know?’ @1,400rpm roundel on Transmission opposite page* 6-speed manual, Fuel/tank/econ FWD Diesel/19.8gals (90 litres)/ 24-28mpg Caravan and Motorhome Club Insurance

Power

Overall width Overall height

10ft 3in (3.13m) Max internal height

6ft 10in (2.09m)

Figures from manufacturer’s literature. *Quote is for model as tested worth £98,490. Based on 50-year-old banker living in Sheffield, with a maximum no claims bonus coming from a vehicle of a similar value/experience, who has no accidents, claims or convictions and keeps the vehicle on a drive, 3,000 miles per year, with £150 damage, fire and theft excess. Due to the value of the vehicle a tracker device and a Thatcham Category 1 immobiliser must be fitted. 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.

NIGHT-TIME area is genuinely DID YOU KNOW? Unusual indeed to have a spacious, though, and You can insure this motorhome this size without the seating boasts good motorhome with the Club support, with a permanent bed, but that’s a bit for £640.84* per year. superior quality of a British thing – arguably, we Please see camc.com/ upholstery and four do spend more ‘living’ time in insurance or call scatter cushions. our ’vans than those on Europe’s 0345 504 0334 for Both lounges have mainland, hence we want as much further details LED reading lamps, living space as possible. individually switched and What you do get is a decent (6ft 3in arrangement of windows differs from the with a dimmer function, plus x 4ft 5in) overcab bed on hinges, so you pull norm: there are two side windows and a Heki it down into position before adding a ladder rooflight, but there’s no opening window on the ambient lighting strips over and under the upper lockers. There are holders and sockets to add for access. back wall, at least not in the usual location. flatscreen TVs. The free-standing table for the The rear is the next obvious sleeping area, Instead, there’s a high-level, fixed window rear isn’t the largest, but it’s light and easy to with pleated divider for privacy. Here, you can arrangement, called ‘Stargazer’. have twin (6ft 4in) singles or a massive double.

With lots of padded linings and a wood-effect manoeuvre, stowing for safe travel in a dedicated locker handily nearby.

The third double, from the dinette seating, panel (with a double USB socket) inset into a Storage, inside and out, is simply immense. plastic moulding section, rather than a lower is equally impressive in its 6ft 8in x 4ft 5in level rear window, it may well seem extra cosy to Also, I counted eight mains sockets, supplemented dimensions. When set up it does prevent access

by USBs and 12V outlets. some people and claustrophobic to others. The to the overcab bed via the ladder. www.camc.com

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

97

TEST SWIFT KON-TIKI 649

Clockwise from above: dimmable reading lights; decent facilities in washroom; lots of workspace in kitchen; rear lounge seating makes twin single beds or a huge double; intuitive control panel

KITCHEN Ah, that fridge! Fridge-freezer, in fact. There’s no arguing with its 190-litre capacity now, and its doors are engineered to open from both sides. This is more than just a party trick – it means access is easy whether you’re reaching across from the kitchen or the rear lounge.

A microwave oven is set above it, a location that hopefully won’t be too high for users.

Across the corridor, the main kitchen unit runs along the nearside. There’s a full cooker (dual-fuel hob, separate oven and grill) far right, with a neatly integrated extractor unit above.

A stainless steel circular sink is to the immediate left of the hob, set into the Corian worktop. Beyond is an acrylic splash panel.

Such is the expanse of worktop space there’s no need for an extension.

The Alde central heating/hot water boiler takes up much of the low-level kitchen storage, but there are soft-close drawers and overhead lockers. Should you want further kitchen storage, the wardrobe to the left also houses a trio of slide-out wire baskets.

98 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

WASHROOM Initially, the washroom seems slightly constricted.

That’s because priority has been given to the shower cubicle – all plastic-lined, with step-down access via a bi-folding door with a rather nifty travel catch. There’s also an Ecocamel Orbit water-saving showerhead in here.

The fixed corner basin is small, but deep, and a swivel-bowl toilet takes centre stage. There’s no window, although there is a larger-than-average rooflight. Two lockers provide the main storage, both with shelving, plus there’s a good choice of hooks and holders.

DETAILS With a standard specification roster that goes on and on, there really is too much to list here.

Highlights not already mentioned include DAB cab stereo, 120W solar panel, twin 100Ah leisure batteries, Swift’s exclusive Command control system (including tracker and app), Winter Pack…

It would be nice to see some of the wiring at the backs of lockers tucked away, ideally out

of sight… indeed, you’d surely expect full-lined lockers when you’re this far upmarket. Some of the interior plastics still feel a bit flimsier than you’d expect in a motorhome that’s close to £100,000.

VERDICT This is a big motorhome that waves the flag for British manufacturing. These latest Kon-tikis move up a class, where competition is keener than you might expect. The very UK-friendly floorplan, plus that all-consuming overall specification, will see the 649 winning many friends.

With thanks to Vehicle supplied for testing by: Brownhills of Newark, A1/A46 junction, Newark NG24 2EA Contact: brownhills.co.uk, 01636 704201

www.camc.com

TEST: JAGUAR F-PACE PORTFOLIO 2.0D AWD

et a ara tee 5 off your existing Motorhome Insurance renewal premium* Created just for you

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*Premium Saving Guarantee. Subject to proof of an existing renewal, including cover and price (e.g. a copy of your renewal notice) and when cover is on a li e for li e 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. A sample policy, including the terms and conditions that may apply, is available upon request.

The Club’s otorhome nsurance is arranged by evitt nsurance Services imited, nsurance Bro ers. The Caravan Club imited and evitt nsurance Services imited are authorised and regulated by The inancial Conduct Authority.

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EXCLUSIVE SHOW TICKETS

The National Motorhome & Campervan Show saving Take advantage of a special offer on admission to this Peterborough show in April The East of England Arena hosts the UK’s largest outdoor motorhome and campervan show from 26-28 April.

Visitors to this Peterborough event will be able to view more than 575 new and used vehicles for sale from more than 50 dealers.

You can also learn plenty about the touring lifestyle by attending a series of free seminars, covering topics such as ‘Buying the Right Motorhome for You’ and ‘Motorhome Payloads Explained’, while those camping on site can enjoy four nights of entertainment.

The highlight will be Saturday’s show, during which headline acts Boney M ft Maizie Williams, Roy Carter from Heatwave and Earth Wind for Hire take to the stage.

Tickets are just £15 per person (children £7.50) when booked at the same time as your pitch.

Entertainment on Thursday, Friday and Sunday is free to those camping

www.camc.com

on site and includes a variety of live music and comedy.

MEMBER TICKET OFFER The voucher on this page entitles you to day admission to the show at the discounted rate of £15 for two adults (normal price £8 per person). Simply

present the completed voucher at the pay gate upon arrival.

Alternatively, advance tickets are available at just £6 per person (order before noon on 25 April) – simply call 0844 581 4941 (calls are charged at 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge). Children

are free, while parking and a complimentary show guide are part of your entry fee. The show opens daily at 9.30am, closing at 5pm on Friday and Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday.

For more details about camping at the show or attending as a day visitor, see showgoer.co.uk.

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

101

PRODUCT SHOWCASE CYCLING KIT

SADDLE UP! Jane McGowan checks out a range of affordable cycling accessories

1

Dare 2b Kids Ensue Cycle Jacket

This incredibly light, bright cycling jacket is available in sizes for children aged between seven and 12. Made from a breathable polyester fabric, it is waterproof and windproof. Elasticated cuffs, a scooped hem, stand-up collar and covered zip provide extra protection from the elements, while the ‘fluro yellow’ colour and reflective detailing are great safety elements.

It can be easily stored in a daypack – perfect for spring cycle rides.

Size: 7-8; 9-10; 11-12 RRP: £40 Contact: dare2b.com, 0161 866 0588,

2

Elite Syssa Water Bottle

This tough aluminium bottle shouldn’t affect the taste of your water or sports drinks like some plastic varieties can. Holding up to 750ml, the Syssa can be slotted into most standard bottle cages. The easy flip-off cover keeps the mouthpiece free from dirt, while the pull-up stopper prevents any liquid from leaking. The top section screws off for splash-free filling and easy cleaning, while the shoulder indent makes the vessel easy to hold.

Size: 750ml Colour: silver, black RRP: £11 Contact: elite-it.com (for info), available from high street retailers including Halfords

4 Onme Lights

Photography: Jon Warman

3 Park Tool AWS-14 Mini Fold-Up Hex Wrench Set Light enough to slip into your pocket, this multi-tool is perfect for anyone heading off for a day in the saddle.

Including five of the most-needed cycle gadgets, the AWS-14 features three hex keys (sized 3mm, 4mm and 5mm), a T25 Torx-compatible bit, screwdriver and key ring attachment. The casing – which measures just 6.6cm long – features a non-slip grip which should help with all-weather repairs and adjustments.

RRP: £11.99 Contact: parktool.com (for info), available from wiggle.co.uk

102

These funky, globe-shaped lights illuminate the cyclist rather than the road. Designed for use in well-lit urban environments (the ‘diffuser ball’ can be removed for ‘normal’ road use), the lights come in pairs (white for the front and red for the rear), and can be charged via USB lead (included). On full charge, the white lamp lasts for about 3.5 hours, while the rear version should work for up to 2.5 hours. A nice touch is that, once you’re back from your trip, you can simply unclip the orbs and hang them in your tent or awning for an instant glow.

RRP: £20 per set Contact: onmelights.com

5 Livall MTL Smart Helmet As well as offering impact protection, this high-tech helmet features a range of additional safety features, including red hazard lights and yellow signal indicators. Via sensors, it also turns itself on as nightfall descends and even has an SOS function should you get into difficulties (link the free-to-download app to your smartphone’s GPS facility).

The lights can be controlled remotely via a Bluetooth device (which can be fitted to the handlebars) or by using the panel tucked under the front of this lightweight helmet.

Size: 55cm-58cm, 58cm-62cm RRP: £69 Contact: halfords.com, 0345 504 5353

6 Topeak Smartphone Drybag This 100% waterproof pouch protects your smartphone from the elements, its transparent cover allowing you to operate your phone’s touchscreen in the normal way. It worked well on test and was easy to fit to my bike – a band clamp is supplied. The ‘QuickClick’ release mechanism allows you to access your device quickly. My test product was compatible with iPhones 6, 6s, 7 and 8 but other options are available.

RRP: £22.99 Contact: topeak.com (for info), available from a range of high-street stores including Evans Cycles

103

PRACTICAL Q&A

Ask your Club The Club’s technical team answers your pressing questions

Transit trouble Q

Is it true that Ford Transit-based motorhomes are being targeted for thefts?

A

Transit commercial vehicles have been targeted for some time. Often thieves are looking to steal tools left in unattended vans, or to harvest valuable spare parts from the vehicle. Historically this hasn’t been a major issue where motorhome conversions are concerned, but the industry has seen a rise in insurance claims for theft recently.

Not all Transits are affected – Transit and Transit Custom models made between 2005 and 2015 seem the main focus of concern. An exploitable weakness in the vehicle entry and engine security measures makes them a relatively easy target for thieves, with tools to defeat the door lock and gadgets to reprogramme immobiliser keys being easily purchased on the internet.

While tool theft from commercial vehicles is a major issue, the van itself is increasingly at risk of theft because engine and transmission parts command high prices. As motorhomes generally have lower mileage than commercial vans, they’re now being recognised as a source of lightly-used components such as engine and transmission parts.

If you have a Transit-based motorhome or campervan built between 2005 and 2015, you may want to consider improving your security measures.

One option is to visit your Ford dealer and see if there’s an appropriate security upgrade available, or check for available security-related Field Service

104 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

“The industry has seen a rise in insurance claims for theft recently. If you have a Transitbased motorhome or campervan built between 2005 and 2015, you may want to consider improving your security measures.”

Actions via the Ford website: www.etis.ford.com/fordservice/ home.do – these upgrades may even be free; you need your chassis VIN to get full details.

You can also think about fitting aftermarket highsecurity door locks – these can be quite expensive, but would mean you had a different key for the doors and the ignition.

Another option is the old-school approach of fitting simple, visual deterrents such as pedal boxes, steering wheel locks, or even wheel clamps.

A good steering wheel lock is perhaps the easiest of these to use, but as with all mechanical security products, look for one that has been independently tested and accredited by a test house such as Sold Secure.

Please address your questions to: Technical Information, Caravan and Motorhome Club, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA ...and quote your membership number

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LETTERS YOUR VIEWS

with 4 x pics supplied

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September 2017 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

73

PRACTICAL BUYING

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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 14.08.19.

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PRACTICAL PITCHES

?

DID YOU KNOW

vice’ The ‘Practical Ad Cl e section of th ub a wealth website contains ion. See at rm fo in rt of expe camc.com/advice

service At your

Looking for a little more luxury on a Club site?

Sammy Faircloth explains how to make best use of a special ‘serviced pitch’

W

e love using our Bailey Orion 460-5 as base for exploring the Great British countryside – and as a result we make decent use of our in-caravan shower cubicle!

The only challenge is that trying to get all of our family of four clean generally means lots of trips to refill the water container – not to mention the resulting trips to the disposal point. Running out of water part way through a shower is no joke.

So we decided to push the boat out and upgrade to a ‘serviced pitch’ on our recent visit to Buxton Caravan and Motorhome Club Site.

What a treat it was to have a continuous flow of fresh water and not to have to worry about the waste overflowing!

FRESH WATER On a serviced pitch, water tends to be provided via a conventional brass tap with a threaded end – similar to a garden tap.

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A key piece of equipment is a tap connector which can be purchased from any plumber or DIY store in either plastic or brass. Plumber’s tape can help to create a better seal and remember to pack a pair of adjustable pliers for a tight fit. It is advisable to check with site staff that you have the correct type of connector.

From the tap, there are various ways to transport the water to your caravan/motorhome.

The Whale Watermaster Mains kit, for example, comprises a 7.5-metre hose with a tap connector one end and a Whale plug the other that connects into either a Whale or Truma socket (on UK caravans). It incorporates a water pressure regulator that prevents damage to the water system inside the caravan.

Remember to ensure that there are no kinks in the pipe, and it is advisable to remove the Whale plug when your outfit is unattended or not in use for long periods of time.

Above: standard garden plastic or brass fitments can be connected to the site tap Below: a universal mains water adaptor kit connects to most fresh water containers

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

107

PRACTICAL PITCHES

Clockwise from left: a ball valve fits into the side of the fresh water container and acts in the same way as in a toilet cistern... ... the water pump is then connected to the fresh water container in the usual way The cheapest option is to connect a foodgrade reinforced hose (usually blue in colour) to the tap and simply fill up the fresh water container when it runs low Clockwise from middle right: one of the best things about serviced pitches is the facility to allow waste water to drain away into the sewer system. On Club sites this is integrated with the electrical hook-up point Our 11-year-old son loved the challenge of putting together the pipes and ensuring that they ran downhill into the drain Dual connectors are handy for running water to your caravan/motorhome and running a separate hose to clean muddy boots or a dog

An alternative option is a universal mains water adaptor kit. A ball valve fits into the side of your fresh water container which, in turn, is connected to a food-grade reinforced hose that runs to the tap. The container will continuously fill to approximately half way – the ball valve will stop the water from overflowing, in the same way as it would in a toilet cistern. The water pump is then connected to the fresh water container in the usual way.

The cheapest option is simply to connect a food-grade reinforced hose (usually blue) to the tap and fill up your fresh water container when it runs low. Obviously, you won’t be guaranteed continuous running water, but you won’t have to move your container in order to refill it!

WASTE WATER One of the best things about serviced pitches is the facility to allow waste water to drain away into the sewer system. So no more emptying waste containers (which can smell particularly nasty during hot conditions).

Draining grey waste with a rigid pipe is a relatively cheap option, and sections of pipe can

108 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

be bought from DIY stores. Purchase various corner pieces and cut different lengths as you never know until you arrive on pitch where the waste drain will be. Daniel (our 11-year-old son) had great fun putting all the pipes together and ensuring that there was a continuous downward slope to prevent waste build-up.

Some prefer to use ribbed flexible pipes which are easier to transport and fix in place. Longer lengths of flexible pipe have a tendency to coil up, though, which can mean waste water sitting within the bends. Look for ribbed flexible piping that is smooth on the inside – this helps prevent waste water getting trapped.

attachment for cleaning a muddy dog or washing dirty boots.

We carry an extra hose reel just in case our 7.5m length doesn’t reach the tap.

Some serviced pitches include a TV aerial booster and may even feature hedges for extra privacy. On Caravan and Motorhome Club sites, these are known as ‘super pitches’.

Our serviced pitch at the Buxton site gave us the luxury we so needed after a snowy walk up Kinder Scout (below). It was fantastic to be able to shower in the comfort of our own caravan and not worry about facing the icy blast outside!

ELECTRICITY On Caravan and Motorhome Club sites the electric hook-up point sits within the same unit as the fresh water tap on serviced pitches. You can connect your electrics in the usual way.

ADDITIONAL INFO I have seen some people use dual connectors on serviced pitches. These allow you to run water to your caravan and have a separate hose

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NEWS HEADLINES

Ese

www.caravanclub.co.uk

Photos: Photo 1 – Proposed header {you might want to change this for one of the other photos. Let me know if you have something in mind for the header as I have loads of photos} Photo 2 – Buxton Caravan Club is one of many club sites that offer serviced pitches {2 photos to choose from} Photo 3 – the fresh water supply is via a threaded tap similar to an outdoor garden tap Photo 4 – Brass connectors tend to be more robust, particularly during cold weather Photo 5 – Plastic connectors can be cheaper Photo 6 - Plumbers PTFE tape can help to create a better seal Photo 7 – the Whale Watermaster Mains Water Hook-up kit is ideal for transporting water from the tap to your caravan/motorhome Photo 8 – The Whale plug the other end of the hose connects into either a Whale or Truma socket (on UK vans) Photo 9 – Try the Universal Mains Water Adaptor Kit that connects to most fresh water containers Photo 10 – A ball valve fits into the side of the fresh water container and acts in the same way as a ball valve in a toilet cistern Photo 11 – The water pump is then connected to the fresh water container in the usual way Photo 12 – The cheapest option is to connect a food grade reinforced hose (usually blue in colour) from the tap and simply fill up the fresh water container when it runs low Photo 13 – One of the best things about serviced pitches is the facility to allow waste water to drain away into the sewer system Photo 14 – Our 11 year old son loved the mental challenge of putting together the pipes and ensuring that it ran downhill into the drain Photo 15 – Some prefer the ribbed flexible pipe option Photo 16 – On Caravan & Motorhome Club sites the electric hook-up point is in the same unit as the fresh water tap Photo 17 – Dual connectors are handy for running water to your caravan/motorhome and running a separate hose to clean muddy boots or dog Photo 18 – Carry an extra hose real just in case your 7.5 metre

hose doesn’t reach the tap Photo 19 – Our serviced pitch at the Buxton Caravan Club site offered us the luxury we so needed after a snowy walk up Kinder Scout

November 2016 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

4

NEWS HEADLINES

2 January 2017 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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CENTRES LOCAL GROUPS

Centre lines

Dennis Bulson We are sad to report that former North Yorkshire Centre Chairman Dennis Bulson passed away in 2018 after a long battle with cancer. Dennis, wife Gwen and family joined the Club in 1972 and later signed up with the North Yorkshire Centre.

Dennis was an active centre member, joining the committee in 1980. He was Rally Secretary for four years, Vice-Chairman for three and served as Chairman from 1988-1991. Dennis and Gwen organised the centre’s first ever rally to France in 1981 and then took members to Germany a couple of years later. Dennis was famous for his discos and charity auctions, and will be sadly missed by all on the rally field.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.

Rallying through the ages These fantastic photographs, believed to date from the 1930s to the 1950s, were sent in by Steve Carr, who looks after East Hampshire Centre’s publicity and newsletter. The story behind their discovery is a fascinating one: “A centre member’s son bought a house in Ireland. In the undergrowth in the back garden they came across an old caravan and inside the van was this album!” says Steve.

Among the pictures (which number 50 in all) are images taken on rallies, held by what was the old ‘Southern Centre’ before it split into the East Hampshire, West Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire Centres.

Locations featured include Southsea, Hailsham in East Sussex, Tilgate Forest in West Sussex, Northampton and Girvan in Ayrshire. The album is now part of the Club Collection at Beaulieu – but we would love to hear from anyone who has any more information. Please email john.thynne@camc.com.

Sail away The Anglia Region is organising a three-course dinner and sail along the River Blackwater on Saturday 15 June.

A temporary site run by the North Essex Centre will be available from noon on 14 June to 3pm on 16 June.

For more information and a booking form please email chairman@ angliaregion.org.uk.

Pat’s angels take off

Right: Pat Lallaway with Ron Swanson of Ayrshire Hospice. Above: some of Pat’s angels

Welcome to our section dedicated to the Club’s centres. To search for a Centre event or find your local group’s details, see camc.com/centres

www.camc.com

South West Scotland Centre member Pat Lallaway has contributed nearly £10,000 to Ayrshire Hospice over the past five years by making and selling ‘angel’ keyrings and earrings.

Pat and husband George have travelled the UK, Ireland and Europe selling the miniature artworks – look out for them during your travels!

April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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CENTRES LOCAL GROUPS

Roll up for the Welsh National!

Peter Bailey The Buckinghamshire Centre is sad to announce the death of former Chairman Peter Bailey. His laughter and zest for life will be missed by all who knew him. Our condolences go to his wife Sheila and her family.

West Wales Centre members would like you to keep 22-27 August clear in your diaries – so you can join them at the 67th Welsh National in the Brecon Beacons!

The rally, which will include sports and craft competitions, an inter-centre quiz, fancy dress and high-quality entertainment for guests of all ages, is being held at the Brecon Showground

Hants very much!

in the heart of the National Park.

Visitors will have the chance to see awe-inspiring mountains, lakes and rivers and experience beautiful clear night skies in one of the most spectacular regions in the British Isles.

Booking forms and information about pre-National and follow-on rallies can be found at westwalescentre.co.uk.

Northern exposure

Debu55y/dreamstime

East Hampshire Centre welcomed a representative from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance to its 2019 Events Meeting at Greatham Village Hall in January.

After an interesting presentation about the development and operation of the lifesaving organisation, members presented the charity with a cheque for more than £1,100, collected during the course of 2018.

Yorkshire Dales

The North Yorkshire Centre is to host the prestigious Festival of the North from 23 to 26 August at Newby Hall in Ripon – so make sure you put the date

in your diaries! This celebration weekend includes live entertainment and offers the opportunity to explore the North York Moors and Dales or

visit the likes of York and Harrogate.

More details and prices are to be confirmed – keep an eye on northyorkshirecentre.co.uk.

Please note that, contrary to information in the Centres Rally 2019 supplement, the correct contact telephone number for Yorkshire Dales Centre’s rally at Pooley Bridge from 10-19 May is 07854 131997.

All abroad Details of overseas centre rallies in 2019 FRANCE 1-15 June Location: Riva Bella, Ouistreham Host Centre: Avon 3-24 June Location: Le Coin Tranquille, Les Abrets* Host Centre: East Sussex Details: This campsite has a superb restaurant, while the friendly owners offer an array of excursions and sightseeing opportunities for you to experience. You can choose between stays of 7, 14 or 21 nights.

19 June-3 July Location: Camping Le Patisseau, Pornic Host Centre: Wiltshire 22 June-6 July Location: Camping Du Letty, Bénodet*

Host Centre: East Dorset Details: This site sits within a distinctive region of dramatic coastlines and pretty fishing villages. Offering far-reaching views across the Bay of Biscay, it is just a 25-minute drive from Quimper, generally regarded as the cultural heart of Brittany.

24 June-14 July Location: Camping L’Océano d’Or, Jard sur Mer Host Centre: Dyfed 29 June-13 July Location: Camping l'Île d’Offard, Saumur Host Centre: Gwent 23 July-15 September Location: Camping L’Océano d’Or, Jard sur Mer Host Centre: West Wales

112 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

ITALY 25 August-6 September Location:Camping Fornella, Lake Garda Host Centre: Cheshire

NETHERLANDS 27 July-10 August Location: Allure Park Laag Kanje, Maarn* Host Centre: Buckinghamshire Details: This attractive campsite is a great location for a family rally.

Highlights include a welcome meal in the site restaurant, a day excursion to the beautiful ancient town of Arnhem with a visit to the Airborne Museum, and a day trip to a flower auction and afternoon in the lakeside town of Volendam.

17-31 August Location: Resort de Arendshorst, Ommen* Host Centre: Suffolk Details: Located on the riverside in the rural north-east of the country, this campsite is perfect for a family holiday. Take advantage of numerous cycle paths, go in a dinghy on the river, enjoy a dip in the pool or visit the on-site petting zoo which is home to goats and chickens – there’s loads to see and do.

30 August-9 September Location: Camping Liesbos, Breda Host Centre: South Essex *Rallies can be booked through Alan Rogers, part of The Caravan Club Ltd. For more information see alanrogersrallies.com, email rallies@alanrogers.com or call 01580 214070.

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www.camc.com March 2017 The Caravan Club Magazine

xx

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Tail lights

MORE

ON THE

APP

Your observations on the unusual world of touring

Up the swan-ny The first of two convoys in this month’s Tail Lights – Club member Christine Seward saw this bevy of swans on the canal while staying at the Minnows site in Sampford Peverell. Christine mentioned the wonderful, peaceful walks and cycling opportunities available along the towpath – although clearly some still prefer to travel by water...

Level up Pete Mayes came across this unusual motorhome in Savannah, Georgia – apparently it is a If you’ve seen custom-built tourer made using a 1961 GMC something unusual motorhome and parts from a 1950 Aerocoach. on a Club site, CL or “The history behind it is well worth a look at on the internet and would interest Club while you’ve been out motorhome owners,” says Pete. and about, send your

picture to magazine@ camc.com and we’ll print the best.

Third time’s a charm Garreth Smith and family try not to visit the same site twice, but the wonderful new year they enjoyed at Broadway was during their third stay of 2018 (or their first of 2019, if you like). “My train obsessed 11-year-old son was in his element,” says Garreth, “as was Rupert, our two-year-old Patterpoo who loved waiting in ‘his’ seat for the trains to come past right in front of Daisy our beloved motorhome.”

Fleetwood shack “I spotted this brightly recoloured Fleetwood tourer installed on a patch of ground directly beside a beach in Phuket, Thailand!” exclaims Richard Minns. “It has obviously retired to the sun, looks in pretty good shape and is still doing its job for somebody... but quite how a Fleetwood got all the way to Phuket .... ?” It’s simple, Richard – just head south-east from Moscow!

Pulling power This is a still from a promotional video, as opposed to a picture from a Club member, but we thought we’d share it anyway. That’s a Ford Ranger at the front, ‘towing’ a total of 15 caravans – a 20-tonne convoy, apparently, with reinforced steel frames and towbars at the front and back of each one. Allow yourself, for a moment, to imagine a red-faced Jeremy Clarkson stuck behind this lot, before we reveal that the stunt actually took place at the Millbrook Proving Ground, well away from any other road traffic.

130 April 2019 Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine

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Platinum International Limited will fund this discount off their new battery. Simply return this voucher and the scrap battery to Platinum and we will credit your account with a scrap credit of £10. The scrap battery returned to Platinum can be any brand.

The voucher only applies to the purchase / return of one battery. Platinum International Limited reserve the right to withdraw this offer at any time without warning.

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November 2016 The Caravan Club Magazine

3

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