Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine – January/February 2026
AT HEART?
Where will your new year touring adventures take you? Check out our ideas inside!
ACCESS POINTS A firm specialising in vehicle modification
STUNNING SCOTLAND Nature focus and a magical break in the south-west
PICKS OF THE PACK All the results from our Caravan Design Awards
Specifcation highlights:
• 120 watt roof-mounted solar panel
• Superior one-piece exterior door with high security locking system and easy action fyscreen
• Co-ordinating foot stool
• NEW Curved L-shape designed kitchen with increased workspace and deeper cupboards
When you walk into the all-new Lusso, you instantly know you have stepped into something special. Beautiful interior design combines premium materials with thoughtful touches and exceptional quality.
• NEW Superior foam construction upholstery with co-ordinating scatter cushions, higher and more supportive backrests
• E & P Self-levelling system with control panel
• NEW Truma Compact air conditioning unit
• ALDE fow continuous hot water system
• Dometic safe
camc.com/contact
Editorial
Editors Gary Martin, John Thynne
Deputy Editor Stuart Egan
Assistant Editors Clare Disano, Stephen Hollis
Design Michaela Millar
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WELCOME
John Thynne says:
We love to hear about your UK and overseas holidays. In this issue, for example, you can read about Colin and Christine Hepburn’s Club-organised motorhome tour of Canada and the United States. Members for more than 10 years, the Worcester-based couple enjoyed spectacular scenery, spotted magical wildlife such as elk, bears and eagles – and even found time for a visit to the legendary Calgary Stampede. It was an adventure that will live long in the memory – “mind blowing” is how Colin described it. Turn to page 54 to read the whole story.
“As always our Letters pages are full of members’ stories ”
of caravanning abroad with a young family, turn to page 58. Maybe she’ll inspire you to plan your own trip overseas.
And, as always, our Letters pages are full of members stories – turn to pages 26-27 to read about a wonderful Welsh trip, a peaceful Yorkshire getaway and five siblings who all share a love of campervanning.
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President: Thomas Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester
Chair: David Turner
Director General: Nick Lomas
Elsewhere in the issue we catch up with Rachel Witek (aka The Caravanning Mummy). Following a successful foray across the Channel last year, Rachel and her family embarked on a 27-night, 1,800-mile odyssey, taking in Disneyland Paris and a boat trip on the Seine as well as stays in Burgundy, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the Loire Valley and Normandy. If you would like to find out more about Rachel’s experiences
Another Club member who has been busy in recent months is journalist Karla Baker – in this magazine you can read her account of a five-site tour of south-west Scotland as well as a separate visit to the Coachbuilt factory in Warwickshire. Karla, who uses a powerchair, finds out how the company adapts vehicles for people with specific accessibility needs.
We’d love to know what you’ve been up to in recent months – as well as your plans for the 2026 touring season. Do drop us a line at magazine@camc.com.
Enjoy the issue!
Editions of your Club magazine – with lots of extra content – are also available via an app on iPhone/ iPad and Android tablets and phones.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026
TOURING
Jonathan
The Witek family head back to France in their
MEMBER BENEFITS
62 MEMBER OFFERS
Save with your Club
64 GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE
Days out for less
SPECIALS
50 SCOTTISH SAFARI
Anna Haines on Scotland’s very own ‘big five’
68 TRANSFORMING LIVES
Karla Baker visits Coachbuilt –a company modifying leisure vehicles for people with accessibility needs
80 CARAVAN DESIGN AWARDS
Our judging panel assess the merits of 50 outfits across 12 categories
102 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Highlights from the Club’s AGM at Warwick Racecourse in October
REGULARS
9 DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW
A
Nick Lomas on a region forever linked to the Norman Conquest
10 YOUR PHOTOS
Pictures from your touring breaks
12 CLUB MATTERS
How members can get away for less at Club campsites in 2026
26 LETTERS
We open our mailbag...
92 PRODUCT SHOWCASE
Handy touring kitchen kit
94 COUNTRY MATTERS
David Chapman revels in nature during a frosty winter walk
98 PRACTICAL
A guide to setting up your caravan for the first time
108 PUZZLES
Can you solve our brainteaser?
109 CROSSWORD
A chance to win Club vouchers
110 HAVE YOU BEEN TO...?
Seacroft Club Campsite in North Norfolk
111 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS
To advertise, call 07977 162066
122 YOUR PHOTOS EXTRA
More fantastic pictures from your touring breaks
124
TAIL LIGHTS
A light-hearted look at the world of touring
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YOUR NEXT MOTORHOME COULD LOOK THIS GOOD.
Since 2017, we’ve partnered with leading brands to create MAN TGE motorhomes built for adventure. Travel with confidence thanks to a 5-year warranty and a free pre-holiday check at any of our network sites. Choose 4X4 capability*, enjoy cutting-edge tech including a 12.9” touchscreen* and advanced safety systems, and benefit from our dedicated network with extended opening hours – some locations open 24/7. A MAN TGE motorhome starts with peace of mind and ends with unforgettable experiences.
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DISCOVER MORE
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Circulation: Jan-Dec 2024
Nick Lomas says:
The story of the Norman Conquest is back in the spotlight. A recent BBC TV series, King and Conqueror, dramatises the fascinating story of Anglo-Saxon England and the efforts of King Harold Godwinson’s rival, William of Normandy, to claim the English throne. Also recently, the French and UK governments announced a reciprocal cultural exchange which will see the 70-metre-long Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the events of 1066, on display in the British Museum in autumn 2026
Two campsites make excellent bases for exploring the conquest story “ ”
while the museum in Normandy undergoes a major renovation.
The green and pleasant land that would have greeted William when he arrived on the shore at Pevensey Bay in modern-day East Sussex is still much in evidence. He spent about two weeks in the area before battling Harold and his army at Senlac Hill in Battle, the town later named after the conflict.
The BBC series was filmed partly in Iceland, which presents a dramatic, treeless and almost foreboding image of England, perhaps suiting the tension of the series. In reality, the undulating countryside of Sussex in Norman times would have looked similar to the landscape today, with perhaps even more trees but fewer open fields.
The Club is blessed with two contrasting campsites that make excellent bases for exploring the area and the conquest story. Battle
Normanhurst Court Club Campsite is just a couple of miles from Battle’s town centre, where William built an abbey to honour the place of his victory. It is said to be situated on the spot where Harold was killed. The abbey and battlefield (in the care of English Heritage) make for a fascinating visit, while the town’s charming shops, restaurants and tea rooms provide a welcome diversion once you have had your fill of history Closer to the coast are Hastings and Fairlight Wood Club Campsite, a quiet site encircled by woodland, with Hastings Country Park nature reserve nearby. There are tremendous views to Eastbourne, Dungeness in Kent and, on a clear day, France’s Normandy coast. The Old Town of Hastings provides plenty of places to eat and drink and the fishing quarter, with its black-painted cabins, is a picturesque backdrop; modern Hastings has all the beach-front resort activities you’d expect.
I like to imagine that William and his army would have seen this fertile, attractive landscape as something valuable and worth fighting for. I’m sure that you will find it an attractive and interesting area too, if you choose to visit.
Printing by Mohn Media, Gütersloh, Germany
Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera
TOURING REFLECTIONS
“Glencoe, Scotland, October 2025. A still, warm day following some wet and stormy weather resulted in the lake being like a mill pond... and perfect reflections.” [Nearest Club campsites: Bunree, North Ledaig AS.]
Trevor Little
A GRAND VIEW
The Grand Hotel, taken on a walk between Cayton Village Club Campsite and Scarborough. [Nearest Club campsites: Cayton Village, Scarborough West Ayton.]
John Trewhitt
CATCH OF THE DAY
“We were staying at White Water Park Club Campsite. Visited Durham and captured this shot of a kingfisher with its catch.”
Keith Ross
SPOOKY STAY
“Cirencester Park Club Campsite – trick or treating at Cirencester, the perfect end to a spooky half-term!”
Hannah Thomas
Highland
Gloucestershire
County Durham
North Yorkshire
CANOE BELIEVE IT?
“Moraine Lake whilst on a Canadian road trip through Banff National Park.”
Andrew Brown
PAWS FOR A WHILE
“The weather might not have been great but that didn’t dampen our spirits! Tenby is certainly one of our ‘happy places’.”
Clare Viles
BOARD GAMES
Children and adults paddleboarding together during a West Hampshire Centre rally at Three Magpies, Devizes. Emma Elsey
'CASE STUDY
“Taken on our three-week trip through France, from Dieppe down to Bergerac and following the Dordogne to its source and back to Dieppe.”
Andy Stark
View more member photos in the Digital Magazine, available via the App Store or Google Play.
Upload your images at camc.com/inspiringadventures or tag us on Facebook, Instagram or X (Twitter) using #inspiringadventures
Wiltshire
Canada
France
Pembrokeshire
GET AWAY FOR LESS
Check out our selection of UK campsite offers for 2026 – all designed to make your money go further
Prepare for your best touring year ever with our fantastic line-up of 2026 UK Club campsite offers*. K ick off the season with 10% OFF Spring Getaways at selected sites, or plan ahead and get Up To £40 OFF Summer Getaways or 10% OFF Autumn Getaways
Dreaming of vast sandy beaches, long walks and blue skies?
New for 2026 is our South West for Less offer where you can save £4 per night at fantastic campsites in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset.
If you want to take advantage of these offers, why not consider the sites below, or head to camc.com/ukoffers to see the whole line-up as well as full terms and conditions. With these incredible offers, there’s a perfect pitch for every budget and itinerary. Book your 2026 holiday today! You could use your chosen campsite as a base for a walking adventure. Check out some suggestions on these pages...
All this is included in your pitch price†
√ Under 5s stay FREE
√ Dogs stay for FREE
√ Awnings are FREE
√ FREE hot showers
√ FREE electric hook-up
√ FREE WI-FI
And remember, we have lowered our deposit to just £5 per night – see camc.com/5deposit
† At all UK Club campsites: Under 5s stay FREE (excluding Moorhampton Hereford Club Campsite which is adult only).
Dogs stay FREE. Awnings are included at no extra cost when staying on an appropriate pitch type. FREE electric hook-up when staying on an appropriate pitch type (excludes Smart Metered campsites and Nonelectric Economy pitches). Hot showers are FREE on appropriate campsites with shower facilities. FREE Wi-Fi service available at 136 UK Club campsites.
Cirencester Park, Gloucestershire
Set within the beautiful Bathurst Estate and on the fringes of the Cotswolds National Landscape, this is a fantastic location for walkers. Be sure to head into Cirencester itself to visit Corinium Museum –home to a fascinating collection of artefacts from the city's Roman past.
Walk: You can find a selection of great walking routes on the Bathurst Estate website at bathurstestate.co.uk – type ‘walking’ into the search bar at the foot of the home page.
Sample price**: £104.49 (3 nights between 12-14 May 2026 for two adults on a hardstanding pitch with awning, including 10% saving).
Cirencester
“The walk is a lovely way of getting into town.”
Campsite visitor, 2025
Coniston Park Coppice, Cumbria
You can save £20 on summer bookings at this wonderful Club campsite, which is set within 63 acres of National Trust woodland. Watersports enthusiasts will be in their element here – or, if you fancy something more sedate, why not head to Coniston pier for a trip on the historic steam yacht, Gondola?
Walk: Check out regular contributor Mark Sutcliffe’s specially prepared walk from Coniston Park Coppice Club Campsite in the September 2024 edition of our Digital Magazine (search for ‘CAMC magazine’ on Google Play or the App Store to download).
Sample price**: £121.20 (4 nights between 1-4 July 2026 for two adults on a hardstanding pitch with awning, including £20 saving (under Up To £40 OFF Summer Getaways offer)).
Coniston Park Coppice Club Campsite
Photo by member Stan Mills
Coniston Water
Ferry Meadows, Cambridgeshire
You have fantastic walking and cycling opportunities on tap at this Club campsite. You could either walk into Peterborough (just over an hour) or enjoy a multitude of routes around the lakes in the surrounding Nene Park.
Walk: Mark Sutcliffe has provided a great route with accompanying map and step-by-step instructions for our Digital Magazine (search for ‘CAMC magazine’ on Google Play or the App Store to download, and scroll down the home page to ‘Riverside ramble’).
Sample price**: £119.52 (4 nights between 1-4 October 2026 for two adults on a hardstanding pitch with awning, including 10% saving).
“Walking
and
cycling around the lakes is lovely.”
Campsite visitor, 2025
Carnon Downs, Cornwall
As well as taking advantage of some great walking and cycling opportunities, visitors to this beautifully landscaped campsite can head to nearby Loe Beach – a haven for watersports enthusiasts. The cathedral town of Truro and seaside Falmouth are also great day-trip options.
Walk: Check out the mostly off-road Coast to Coast Trail, which connects the former mineral ports of Portreath and Devoran (which lies about a mile to the south-west of the Club campsite). You can find a map by visiting cornwall.gov.uk and typing ‘Mineral Tramways’ into the search facility.
Sample price**: £148.80 (4 nights between 12-15 May 2026 for two adults on a hardstanding pitch with awning, including £4 off per night saving).
“Lovely cycle rides off the main roads which is great.”
* n 10% OFF Spring
Getaways on stays between 20 March to 21 June 2026, excluding Easter 3-5 April. 3, 4 or 5 night minimum stay at selected sites. Book by 10 June 2026, at least 7 days in advance of arrival.
n Up to £40 OFF Summer Getaways on stays between 22 June and 21 September
2026. 4, 5 or 7 night minimum stay at selected sites. Book by 11 September 2026, at least 7 days in advance of arrival.
n 10% OFF Autumn Getaways on stays between 22 September to 21 December 2026. 3, 4 or 5 night minimum stay at selected sites. Book by 11 December 2026, at least 7
Over the course of the next year, members are being encouraged to collectively walk 120 million miles (around 10 miles per month, per member) as part of our Walking Wanderers campaign – the aim is to match the entire distance of the global road network! The campaign celebrates the joy of walking while promoting its physical and mental health benefits. Maybe you could use some of the ideas on these pages to start your own walking journeys! To log your miles, discover walking routes or learn more, visit camc.com/ walkingwanderers
days in advance of arrival.
n £4 OFF South West Getaways on stays between 20 March and 1 November 2026. 3, 4 or 5 night minimum stay at selected sites. Book by 22 October 2026, at least 7 days in advance of arrival.
** Sample prices correct at time of going to press.
AND THAT’S NOT ALL…
Check out our other amazing offers…
Campsite visitor, 2025
Ferry Meadows in Nene Park
Photo by Paul Farrington
Near Carnon Downs Club Campsite
Photo by member Gareth Ward
Ferry Meadows Club Campsite
· Extensive Range of nearly new campervans & motorhomes from leading manufacturers.
· Accessories choose from a wide range of Topnotch accessories.
· Expert Staff are here to help find the perfect vehicle & accessories for your adventures.
· Quality Assurance All vehicles are maintained to the highest standards.
· Aftersales AWS and NCC approved workshops are on hand to fulfil your ongoing servicing, repair & MOT requirements.
The latest stories from the touring world
Electric smart metering – next steps
Good news! Our smart metering trial has been a success, and weʼve rolled out a simple, new system shaped by your feedback.
How we started
In May 2023 the Club began a smart metering trial at Wyatts Covert Club Campsite, which was later extended to Steamer Quay Club Campsite. This allowed us to measure the precise amount of electricity used by guests when plugging into the electrical hook-up (EHU) on their pitch – just like using a smart meter at home.
Trial results
The trial was well supported and showed that charging for usage encourages conservation.
• Large reduction: Members and guests who took part significantly reduced their power consumption. At Wyatts Covert we saw an average 45% decrease in electricity usage across the year compared to pre-trial figures.
• Lower pitch fees: Because the average cost of ‘free’ electricity no longer needed to be included in the pitch price, we were able to reduce pitch fees at the two trial sites. This means members paid less for their stays!
Introducing the new, simple system
The main feedback we received was that the original system was a bit ‘clunky’ and not app-based.
As a result we’ve designed a new, intuitive system that has been tested on sites with members. This simplified set-up is now live at Wyatts Covert and Steamer Quay and feedback has been positive.
To use the new system, download the new smartphone app available via Google Play or the App Store). Then, set up your contact details and communication choice. When you arrive on a pitch with smart metering, simply select your pitch number on the app to power up your socket and pre-authorise your payment method. Payment is taken automatically when you disconnect at the end of your stay.
If you do not have a smartphone, each site with smart metering also has a large on-site kiosk where you
can use a card for payment. Our site teams are ready to help but, based on feedback, members are finding the new system very simple to use!
Need to know
Wherever a pitch is e uipped with an electric smart meter, the pitch fee will have been reduced to reflect the fact that you pay for electricity separately.
Our smart metering charge (up to arch is currently p per kWh. This is slightly higher than domestic rates because electricity suppliers charge our Club campsites at commercial rates. The rate is subject to change and includes VAT at 5%.
For full instructions and more details, please visit camc.com/ smartmetering or speak to our site teams when you arrive.
CLUB ON BOARD AT SURF CHAMPS
The 5 Caravan and otorhome Club English National Surfing Championships took place in Cornwall at the start of October.
The country’s leading surfers competed at ew uay’s istral each, delivering two days of high-performance shortboard action in pen en’s and Women’s divisions, alongside the and oys’ and irls’ categories. Originally planned as a three-day event, the championships were condensed into two due to an extreme surf and weather system forecast.
The Club was pleased to be able to continue its successful partnership with Surfing England as headline sponsor of the event. ore
information about Surfing England and this year’s championships can be found at surfingengland.org.
Club members can save % on the cost of a Surfing England membership – see camc.com/ surfingengland for details, terms and conditions.
LOOK OUT FOR THE NEXT ISSUE –ARRIVING FROM 3 FEBRUARY 2026!
Kevin Harmer/@harmerkevin
NEWS IN BRIEF
MILESTONE RALLY
East Sussex Centre will be celebrating its 1,400th rally from 22-25 May at White House Farm in Uckfield, East Sussex. The Centre’s plans include live entertainment across two nights, entertainment for children, a beer tent with licensed bar, table-top sale, raffle and more. Further information will be available at eastsussexcc.org.uk. Bookings will be open in due course.
CHICHESTER CARAVANS
The Club was sorry to hear that Chichester Caravans is closing down. The partners at the Sussex-based dealership have decided to retire at the end of 2025 and would like to thank past and present Club members for their custom and loyalty. The company also supplied caravans for the maga ine s towcar tests we would like to thank them for their fantastic service over a number of years.
CHESHIRE FIREWORKS
The Cheshire Centre held its annual Bonfire and Fireworks Rally at Higher Elms Farm in Church Minshull. With over 80 ʼvans on site, attendees enjoyed a weekend of crafts, live entertainment, a table-top sale, and a Star Wars -themed ‘Walk of Lights’ as well as the bonfire and fireworks. A great weekend was had by all.
Get set for ClubFest 2026
Have you picked up your tickets for ClubFest 2026 yet? Our all-inclusive four-day festival takes place across the late May bank holiday weekend (22-26 May) at Kelmarsh Hall in Northamptonshire. This stunning country estate features beautiful parkland and gardens and is the perfect setting for our biggest event of the year.
Friday night headliners the Bay City Rollers will be treating a packed crowd to their greatest hits, while on Saturday evening Chris Moyles 90s Hangover promises to be the ultimate party, with the DJ and presenter playing a high-energy selection of era-defining hits to dance and sing along to.
We will be welcoming many other acts across the weekend, including tribute acts who will be performing
songs by Neil Diamond, Tina Turner, Take That, Bob Marley, Madness, Mumford & Sons and more. For the full line-up please visit camc.com/clubfest. There’s plenty more in store in addition to the fantastic live acts. There will be eight different Club ones The ayday ids Club, for example, is set to keep children entertained with climbing walls and inflatable fun, while our Wellness Club will offer a quiet oasis for relaxation (why not take a sound bath or a stretch class with fully qualified instructors?).
The Have-A-Go Club will feature tree climbing, axe throwing and even a Caravan Escape Room... will you be able to solve the puzzles and find the clues in order to escape within a set time?
TICKETS
Tickets for ClubFest 2026 can be purchased for as little as £425 (this price is for two adults staying for four nights on a non-electric eco pitch other pitch types are available), and the price you pay includes all of the live entertainment as well as daytime activities, classes, competitions and games. You can choose from non-EHU and EHU pitches, with or without access to toilet and shower facilities, as well as dedicated tent pitches. If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, you could stay in a beautifully furnished bell tent.
We also have day tickets these cost £70 per adult (children under 18 are free). For more information and to book visit camc.com/clubfest . We look forward to seeing you!
NEW DIGITAL SITE GUIDES
Changes are being made to campsite plans and site leaflets for the 2026 season to help you access essential information and find out more about the local area.
To help you prepare for your trips you can download plans and leaflets from the site pages on our website. When you arrive at a campsite you can also scan the QR code provided on the site plan to read the leaflet on your device.
By accessing the site leaflets and plans online, you will be supporting the Club in reducing its environmental impact as we phase out printed site literature.
Site plans and leaflets will be accessible on the website ready for the new season and you will be able to view them on site in reception and in the information room.
Bay City Rollers
Chris Moyles 90s Hangover
ALLWRIGHT NOW
We catch up with TV presenter and people’s champion Matt Allwright at the NEC show
Hello Matt – how long have you been a member of the Club?
Matt Allwright: I’ve been a member for seven or eight years –I’m a campervanner and occasional motorhomer.
And who is in your touring party?
MA: It’s now just me and my wife. Like anybody we have our squabbles and differences of opinion. Recently I thought I had booked into Troutbeck Head and it turned out I had actually booked Borrowdale. We had been driving for about four hours at that stage – that was not a brilliant day! That’s part of it, though – it’s an adventure.
Do you ever take spontaneous trips?
MA: We do. Because the kids have gone, like a lot of people our age, if we get a weekend in May or June, we’ll go ‘Right, this is it’. We can just head off somewhere and be fairly sure it’s going to be quite quiet. And we go
and see friends a lot. Sometimes you don’t want to impose on people if they haven’t got room to put you up. So you find the nearest CL, stop there and you’re out of their hair.
Can you tell us about some of your adventures?
MA: We went to Carnac [in Brittany, north-west France] recently. Carnac has these incredible ancient menhirs which radiate from the centre and get smaller as they get further away. You get to the outskirts of town, see one or two and you think, ‘This is quite nice’. You get closer and there are just so many of these things – it’s actually quite eerie. You have these great cycle tracks that take you all around the menhirs. There’s a lot to see in that part of the world and the food culture is brilliant.
Another trip was to Barra in the Outer Hebrides. We encountered storm-force gales but it was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. Just after lunchtime the tide
GLASGOW TRAINER VACANCY
The Club is looking for a new instructor to join its training team and deliver driving courses in Glasgow from February 2026 onwards.
Our current trainer is retiring after many years of dedicated service, and we are recruiting someone to help continue delivering our programme to both members and non-members.
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with towing or motorhome driving experience who enjoys working with and supporting people in a practical setting. Weekend availability is important and full training and support will be provided by the Club.
If you are interested, or if someone you know is interested, more information can be provided – please email courses@camc.com
goes out, which exposes the beach and that is the landing strip!
You are a musician in your spare time –does the campervan help with that?
MA: Yes, it really does help. You could say it’s been ‘instrumental’! I play a thing called a pedal steel guitar in country or country-style bands. It’s a big, heavy instrument and I play a lot of festivals. Put that together and having a campervan is about as good as it gets. You can take it to the stage, drop off your kit, and there’s usually somewhere to pitch where you can stay the whole weekend. You turn up, your other four or five bandmates are there and you have a fridge full of beer. I don’t think I’m that good a musician – but I think I’m a good bandmate!
Is there anywhere on your campervan destination wish list?
MA: There are so many. Northern Spain... Transylvania is somewhere that my wife and I have spoken about a lot. We absolutely love Germany – the more we go the more we want to go back. And I’d love to see some more of Norway.
Do you get recognised when you are out campervanning, and does it bother you?
MA: It doesn’t bother me because people are invariably very lovely. I’m lucky in that I have done programmes that try to help people and I think people respond positively to that... It is also nice sometimes to just be on your own – that’s why CLs are great. People understand on a CL that you are there to get away from things a little bit.
Do you have a favourite Club campsite?
MA: There are so many… I have to say that Borrowdale was really great!
SO LONG BALTIC WHARF
Baltic Wharf Club Campsite finally closed its gates in August 2025 (see October 2025 issue, p16).
Site Manager ’Chelle said:
“The last weekend at Baltic Wharf was an emotional time, but we hope we made it a joyous celebration and wave goodbye to a much-loved friend. Many of the members who stayed had been to the site many times and shared fond memories at the farewell gathering we organised for them.
“Special mention has to go to Club member Mr Michael Gay-Cuming [pictured above], who made it his mission to be there on the last night in memory of his late wife, and it was our pleasure to help make that happen. The final weekend coincided with Bristol Balloon Fiesta, and our last ever evening saw over 100 hot air balloons flying over, to see us out in style. Club member and friend of the site, Steve Watts, closed the gate for the last time to the sound of shut the gate, Steve!’
“We’ll miss her but look forward to new memories to be made.”
Matt Allwright (right) chats with Lee Davey on the Club stand
Join us at the February NEC Show
The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show will take place from 17-22 February 2026 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. Once again, the Club’s stand at the show promises to be a hive of activity and we look forward to seeing members there!
Hundreds of exhibitors from across the leisure touring and camping industry will be displaying their latest models and products in the NEC’s vast halls – from caravan and motorhome manufacturers such as Adria to camping equipment specialists like Zempire. There will also be hundreds of
accessories and other outdoor products for sale so why not upgrade your touring kit ahead of the new season?
Make sure you pay a visit to the Inspiration Theatre to enjoy talks from travel writers and motorhome, caravan and campervan social media influencers – and keep an eye on the website for news of celebrity guests. For more information about the show visit ccmshow.co.uk.
Tuesday 17 February will be Club Day. Members can purchase discounted entry tickets in advance for Club Day at £10 per person – see the advert on pages 4-5 of this issue
CLUB SHORTLISTED FOR TWO INCLUSIVITY EXCELLENCE AWARDS
The Club was shortlisted in two categories at the Onvero Inclusivity Excellence Awards 2025 – for ‘Inclusive Culture’ and ‘Wellbeing and Belonging at Work’. This is a reflection of the Club’s commitment to embedding inclusivity and fostering a sense of belonging for its employees and members alike. Shortlisted organisations are acknowledged for their ongoing efforts to create positive, supportive environments for people from all backgrounds and acknowledge the meaningful progress in workplace diversity, equity and inclusion.
“This recognition is testament to the progress we’ve made in ensuring that everyone feels
welcome and valued, whether that’s in the workplace or within our wider membership community. Our work with organisations like Onvero continues to shape a more accessible working and touring experience for everyone,” said Natasha Shane, Head of Strategic Product Development and Sustainability, and Diversity & Inclusion Champion at the Club.
The Onvero Inclusivity Excellence Awards are open to organisations of all sizes and sectors and are judged by a panel of DEI experts which selects winners based on their achievements and commitment to driving positive change.
for more details and a discount code. Whether you attend on Club Day or at another time, there will be plenty going on at our stand, with members of staff ready to greet you and help with any questions. Look out too for special guests giving free talks and demonstrations. We’ll also be running our popular motorhome manoeuvring sessions and caravan towing experiences –register your interest at the stand if you would like to take part, although please note that the number of slots is limited, so we are operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
SHOW TIME
JANUARY
9-11 Belfast
Belfast Holiday World Show, Waterfront ICC (Business Exhibitions NI Ltd, see holidayworldshowni.com)
15-18 Manchester
Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show, Manchester Central (Clarion Events, see caravanshows.com)
16-18 Warwickshire
January Motorhome & Campervan Show, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth (Warners Shows, see outandabout live.co.uk)
23-25 Devon
Motorhome & Campervan Show, Westpoint Exeter (Apple Tree Exhibitions & Shows, see appletreeexhibitions.co.uk)
FEBRUARY
5-8 Glasgow
Scottish Motorhome, Caravan & Holiday Home Show, SEC (QD Events, see scottishmotorhomeandcaravan show.com)
17-22 Birmingham
Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2026, National Exhibition Centre (NCC Events, see ccmshow. co.uk)
Note: details subject to change and pre-registration or tickets may be required – please check with organisers in advance.
Mike’s a winner
Congratulations to Mike Smith, who is the lucky winner of a new Adria caravan following the Club’s recent competition in partnership with Adria.
Mike collected his new tourer in November from the Struans dealership in Perth. When asked for his thoughts when he heard he had won, he said: “Total disbelief, no it can’t be me, really? I never win anything! Then elation, then back to disbelief again!”
Mike said he’d finished touring for the year but was looking forward to 2026: “We’ll be thinking about where we want to go and planning out our trips for next year over the Christmas holidays. Exciting times ahead!”
Mr and Mrs Smith collect their Adria caravan at Struans in Perth
NEWS IN BRIEF
BOOKS BY MEMBERS
Two Club members have recently had books published.
Alan Kingsland’s Fifty-Nine Pairs of Socks is a humorous account of a three-month touring adventure in the Lake District, which involved walking all of the Wainwright fells. t is available to purchase from amazon.co.uk.
Meanwhile, Jude Brown and Gary Lock have travelled extensively around Spain in their campervan, exploring the country’s prehistoric monuments and associated museums. Their book, Travels through Prehistoric Spain: A Guide, provides information about some of the best ones to visit. t is available to purchase from archaeopress.com and amazon.co.uk.
PUMPKIN PITCHES
Club members staying at campsites, CLs and on rally fields got into the spirit of Halloween, donning a variety of costumes for trick-or-treating. Here’s one of the decorated caravans at Clumber Park Club Campsite in Nottinghamshire, where dozens of guests enjoyed competitions for fancy dress, best dressed unit and best pumpkins. The site was fully booked for Halloween in 2025 – worth bearing in mind if you’d like to enjoy the next spooktacular evening in 2026.
DISPOSING OF WATER
We would like to remind members that they should only dispose of fresh and grey water at designated service points on Club campsites, whether that is during a stay or at the end when vacating a pitch. Water that is dumped elsewhere can freeze during the colder months and lead to accidents. We appreciate that the vast majority of members do use the service points provided – many thanks for your cooperation.
Sportcamping & Glamping Resort Rio Vantone, Italy
ROOF TENTING OVERSEAS?
As an affordable way to camp and explore, both in the UK and across Europe, roof tents have increased in popularity in recent times. f you are a roof tenter seeking adventure on the Continent, we are pleased to advise that the Club’s overseas travel offers and discounts apply to members’ roof tent-related bookings, in the same way that they apply to caravan, motorhome and campervan ones. Roof tent campers can take
advantage of the Club’s exclusive savings at over 350 campsites in 17 different European countries. All bookings for roof tents must be made through the Club’s Contact Centre; when calling please have the following measurements to hand:
• For crossings – please give the full dimensions of your vehicle with the roof tent closed (ie length, width and height).
• For European campsites – please
FROM THE ARCHIVES
give the full dimensions of the vehicle with the roof tent open (ie length, width and height). This is important as we need to check that the pitch is big enough to include any support ladders behind or at the side of the vehicle.
For inspiration and for more details about our offers, see camc.com/ overseasoffers and page 56 of this issue.
Stories from the Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection
At the Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection, we are looking forward to an exciting year ahead, filled with special events. There will be a particularly proud milestone in 2026 – our 20th anniversary!
Back in May 2006, as the Club prepared for its centenary, it became clear that a remarkable record of Club and caravanning history had been built up during a century of collecting and preserving material.
To safeguard these precious archives for the future, the Club established the Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, ensuring the story of caravanning would be shared and celebrated for generations to come.
Two decades on, the collection now preserves more than 13,000 items and continues to lead the way in recording, interpreting and sharing the history of leisure motoring. By protecting a unique archive, engaging audiences through
creative outreach and supporting researchers from around the world, it has made an outstanding contribution in highlighting how caravanning and touring form an essential part of Britain’s cultural and social heritage.
Museum. A series of events, rallies and touring displays throughout the year will also reflect on 20 years of collaboration and community. Running alongside these celebrations until summer 2026, the Pitch Up and Carry On exhibition explores the remarkable wartime stories of caravanning, the Caravan Club and its members during the econd World War (see page 23 of the November/December 2025 issue for more information). Club members enjoy discounted admission – see camc.com/ greatsavingsguide for details.
To mark this special anniversary, a new showcase exhibition, Caravanning in the New Forest, will open in 2026, celebrating the long-standing partnership between the Club and the National Motor
To find out more about the collection, visit nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/ collections/camc-collection or follow us on camccollection , nstagram (@camcc_curator) and Facebook (facebook.com/camcccurator).
Sara Riccabone
The Club Magazine in the palm of your hand!
The Digital Magazine includes all of your favourites plus extra articles and features:
Exclusive extra content – Redline Sport GT campervan review with video, how to choose the right fridge for your caravan or motorhome, nature special on the charming dormouse, a wander through Robert Burns country, a walk from Cumbria to Yorkshire along the Coast to Coast path, and much more...
Walking and cycling routes direct from Club Campsites – including maps and directions
Easily access seven years of magazines with back issues from January 2017*
A choice of formats for easy reading
Videos of vehicle reviews – watch expert guidance
An integrated screen reader for the visually impaired
Interactive puzzles, including codeword, wordsearch, jigsaw and sudoku
Updated every month and available to members free of charge
To download the Digital Magazine, simply search Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine in the App Store or Google Play, or scan a QR code below.
Our UK escorted tours are back!
We will be running our popular UK escorted tours again in 2026 – you can browse the full list on our website today.
UK escorted tours are exclusive to Club members and showcase the fantastic scenery, culture and history of a variety of regions. Some are short breaks while others are longer escapes, and they all offer great value for money. Best of all, everything is organised for you, so you just have to make a booking, turn up and enjoy your holiday.
Each itinerary makes the most of local attractions and balances
inspirational excursions with free leisure time. You’ll enjoy our themed tour experiences alongside fellow members, while friendly, local guides will also be on hand.
Prices start at just £299 per person (for our three-night Chelsea Flower Show Escorted Tour departing on 22 May 2026)*. Head to camc.com/ uktours to discover exactly what is included in each tour, and to book your place.
* Prices are per person based on two people travelling together. A single supplement will apply for solo travellers.
Changes to your magazine
We know how much members love the Club magazine... in fact, more than four-fifths of you read most issues.
Unfortunately, due to considerable rising costs associated with postage, we have taken the difficult but necessary decision to reduce the frequency of issues from eight this year to six editions in 2026. However, the good news is that more and more extra content is being added to the Digital Magazine app – including exclusive features and vehicle tests by our fantastic team of writers.
content, such as walking and cycling routes from Club campsites, video reviews of cars, caravans and motorhomes, extra pages showcasing your great pictures and interactive puzzles. Since the beginning of 2025, we have also included weekly, exclusive articles in the Digital Magazine app – these are in addition to all of the content mentioned above.
How often will I receive my copy in the post?
Exact delivery dates will vary depending on postal services in your area, but our production schedule is set up so that you should receive copies of new issues approximately every two months.
The Digital Magazine
The Digital Magazine is published in tandem with the print magazine, but each digital issue includes extra
Highlights to date include nature articles on subjects such as hedgerows and farmland habitat, touring features showcasing UK Club campsites for stargazing, visiting piers, fruit-picking farms and more, and overseas touring accounts of holidays in Spain, Croatia, France and Belgium. Extra vehicle tests, walking and cycling routes and news articles also appear regularly in the app.
If you haven’t done so already, you can download your Digital Magazine by visiting either Google Play or the App Store and searching for ‘CAMC Magazine’ – or simply scan the relevant QR code on the panel on this page.
Chelsea Flower Show
SITES FOR ALL!
Which Club campsites will you stay at in 2026? Here are some special places that Club members return to again and again...
There are 148 fantastic Club campsites across the UK ready and waiting for you to enjoy in 2026. Whether youre into seaside strolls, wildlife watching, adventure sports or cultural attractions, we have a site thats perfect for you. We’ve picked out a small selection here for you to consider – what’s more, the following are open all year, so there’s no need to wait until spring to make your booking!
Hunter’s Moon, Dorset
On the edge of Wareham Forest, this pleasant campsite is within easy reach of the fabulous Jurassic coast – making it the perfect location for walking holidays. It’s also a Tourer Explorer site – ideal for youngsters (see panel opposite). Options for days out include Corfe Castle and Weymouth.
Stay for: £156.50 (based on two adults staying on a hardstanding pitch with awning from 20-25 March 2026, benefitting from our South West For Less offer*).
Meathop Fell, Cumbria
Peaceful Meathop Fell near elegant Grange-over-Sands is an ideal base for exploring the beautiful southern half of the Lake District. Only half an hour s drive from Windermere, it’s also just four miles from Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve
– home to nesting ospreys. Meathop Fell is another of our Tourer Explorer sites (kids should look out for the playground).
Stay for: £121.32 (based on two adults staying on a hardstanding pitch with awning from 20-24 March 2026, benefitting from our 10% OFF Spring Getaways offer*).
Chester Fairoaks, Cheshire Conveniently close to the M53 and M56 motorways, this open and level site is bordered by oak trees. You could visit the delightful and historic walled city of Chester, indulge in a
spot of shopping and eating at the nearby designer village, or see spectacular scenery in north Wales. Stay for: £98.01 (based on two adults staying on a hardstanding pitch with awning from 20-23 March 2026, benefitting from our 10% OFF Spring Getaways offer*).
Castleton,
Derbyshire
At the heart of the Peak District
National Park and boasting beautiful views, Castleton Club Campsite, with its all-weather pitches, is great to visit whatever the season. Fun outdoor activities for the family to enjoy
Early morning at Meathop Fell
Photo by member Deborah Wise
Man O War Beach in Dorset
Photo by member Helen Robertson
nearby include climbing, potholing, cycling and horse riding, while walking routes showcase the landscape around Mam Tor, Kinder Scout and Ladybower Reservoir. Stay for: £139.32 (based on two adults staying on a hardstanding pitch with awning from 22-26 September 2026, benefitting from our 10% OFF Autumn Getaways offer*).
Minehead,
Somerset
Minehead Club Campsite is a gem – the town centre is just a 20-minute walk away, while you can get to the seafront in around half an hour on foot. Its position on the edge of Exmoor National Park means that the likes of Dunkery Beacon (commanding views for miles around) and Nutcombe Bottom (Tall Trees Trail) are not far away. Stay for: £148.50 (based on two adults staying on a hardstanding pitch with awning, from 20-25 March 2026, benefitting from our South West For Less offer*).
Ashridge Farm, Hertfordshire
A peaceful, open campsite, Ashridge Farm is a good option for a quieter
break and for members with dogs –all three pubs in the local village of Ashwell welcome pooches! For a change of pace, central London is just 45 minutes by train from Ashwell & Morden station.
Stay for: £104.10 (based on two adults staying on a grass pitch with awning from 27-30 April 2026, benefitting from our Grass Pitch Saver offer*).
*See camc.com/ukoffers for more details, terms and conditions.
The River Dee in Chester
STAYING WITH DOGS
Your four-legged friends are welcome at all UK Club campsites, and they can stay for free! Over 80 sites provide designated areas where you can let your pet off the lead, while a selection also have dog wash areas – perfect if you’re about to return to the ’van after a long walk.
Did you know that dogs are permitted to stay in certain Experience Freedom glamping units? For a £10 supplement, your dog can join you on your break, subject to the availability of dog-friendly accommodation. Assistance dogs stay free of charge.
For more information please visit www.experiencefreedom.co.uk/ holiday-types/glamping-with-dogs. Remember – as a member of the Club, you can save 20% on your glamping booking. To book your next stay please visit camc.com/ experiencefreedom.
To discover ways that you can save on your 2026 adventures, read about our latest special offers on pages 12-13 of this issue.
FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN
Touring holidays are an ideal way for families to make memories and discover more of the UK together –that’s why the Club invests so much time and effort into creating campsites that are perfect for those of you with young children or teenagers. Over 100 Club campsites boast specific childfriendly facilities – including super playgrounds, games rooms and baby/toddler washrooms with small
Accessible touring
We want everyone to be able to experience the joys of touring at our UK Club campsites. A detailed accessibility guide is available for each campsite (see the individual campsite pages at camc.com) – this helps you decide whether it is right for you as it gives details of the facilities that are available, areas and buildings with or without step-free access, and useful measurements such as turning space within specific rooms, heights of sinks/taps, etc.
All our Club-owned campsite facility blocks have accessible toilets/shower rooms. (An increasing number also have inclusive bathrooms, separate from the shared facilities, for those who require support from a friend or family member.) See camc.com/accessibletouring for information.
Accessible glamping
baths. In fact, 96 Club campsites now have playground facilities where kids can let off steam, while 66 also offer recreational areas. Remember that under 5s stay for FREE and kids aged 5-17 stay for just £1 per night, all year round, at all UK Club campsites. We also have 56 family-friendly Tourer Explorer campsites. Discover activities and trails at each of our participating venues – see camc.com/tourer explorer for more information.
We offer a number of accessible glamping pods and glamping cabins across our network. Our accessible accommodation has been designed so that it is suitable for people with a diverse range of needs – it features level access and adapted facilities for example. Classic accessible glamping pods and cabins are available at Cayton Village in North Yorkshire, and at Coniston Park Coppice and Troutbeck Head, both in the Lake District. Accessible glamping options will also soon be available at The Sandringham Estate and Lady argaret s ark Club Campsites. For more info see www.experiencefreedom. co.uk/holiday-types/ accessible-glamping
Ashwell
Michael Green
Your chance to have your say. The writer of our Star Letter will receive a £30 National Trust Gift Card
VOICE MAIL
A few months ago, I read a small article in the magazine and discovered that the Club had its own choir – the Caravan and otorhome Club ingers had one of those lightbulb moments, as the thought of combining my two favourite things –campervanning and singing in a choir – seemed too good to resist.
And after a few emails, I was up and running and invited to visit their website to see and hear their repertoire and download some of the pieces. So last weekend I drove up to Stratford-upon-Avon site and got parked up for my very first rally ever.
The rehearsals were fun, and the music not too challenging. Brian, the musical director, was funny and encouraging. t teatime people made a point of
coming to say hello and introducing themselves. I didn’t feel on my own for a second.
The enthusiasm of the choir and committee was quite infectious, and I found myself saying, genuinely, ‘yes I would love to go again’, and ‘yes, I really enjoyed the weekend’ and ‘yes, I would write something about my first e perience of a rally’.
So, it’s been said before and every cliché you can think of applies – go for it. You will be amazed and delighted you decided to be brave and go. Claire Linder, via email
Editor’s note: Glad you had such a good time Claire! If anyone else would like to find out more about the Singers, please visit camc-singers.co.uk.
In the genes
I recently had the privilege of reading the eulogy at my father’s funeral, a celebration of his long life (Trevor Rawcliffe, 1930-2025). One of the themes was his 50-year membership of the Club. I am the eldest of five children, and we all have happy memories of holidays in the caravan –although my brother and I were relegated to sleeping in the
awning. The lifestyle has been passed on a generation, with all five of us now having campervans. I wonder if any other Club members can beat this?
Once all the children were edged, the large caravan was swapped for a smaller model for two, named ‘Arfa’ (half a caravan) – as depicted in the floral tribute. John Rawcliffe, via email
Simpler recycling
We were pleased to see on our Easter trip to Putts Corner Club Campsite the site team promoting the sale and use of compostable food caddy bags. We purchased some and the following day bought a small food caddy bin in Sidmouth. It’s been a great addition to our caravanning equipment – now all our waste food is stored in the caddy and reduces our general waste volumes. Great to see this being promoted at Putts Corner.
Neil and Ollie, via email
Send your letters to: magazine@camc.com
Members can save 8% on National Trust Gift Cards, which can be redeemed in National Trust cafés and shops, in the Trust’s online shop and towards gift membership packs. See camc.com/nationaltrust for more information.
ESTATE OF BLISS
Last year (2024) my wife, Jayne, wanted to stay at The Sandringham Estate Club Campsite but time (which was not on our side) and the closure of the site for redevelopment prevented us from visiting. When we learned that the site had reopened, Jayne was desperate to visit. Rather than phoning to book a pitch, we decided to have a ride out on the motorbike – so at lunchtime on Sunday 14 September we set off.
We met a member of staff at reception and asked if we could have a walk round – which, of course, was quite acceptable. On return to reception, the same staff member booked us in for the dates we requested and, as I have COPD, a pitch was reserved for us in the Lynnwood area as it was flat and very convenient for the amenity block.
We used the automated check in and drove straight round to our pitch. The site is absolutely amazing. All the Club sites we have visited are a joy and pleasure to use but Sandringham is by far the best we have visited. We will return again in 2026 and for the foreseeable future.
Sincere thanks goes to everyone in the redevelopment of the site and for the amazing staff members who made our visit hassle and stress-free.
Brian and Jayne Tewnion, Lincolnshire
Swim stars visit Garlieston
Garlieston Club Campsite staff were delighted to host a television crew on site in October.
Julie Wilson Nimmo and Greg Hemphill have been filming season three of Wild Swim, this time exploring the south of Scotland and the Borders from east coast to west. During their overnight stay both presenters joined a local wild swimming group on the beach next to the campsite and bravely ventured into the chilly autumn sea. It was a fantastic opportunity to show off both the campsite and the beautiful setting of Garlieston. It’ll be on BBC Scotland around February/March time 2026 and Garlieston Club Campsite will be featured. Site staff, Garlieston Club Campsite
BREATH OF FRESH AIR
I wanted to thank everyone at the wonderful Freshwater East site – such a perfect location directly opposite the stunning beach, near to the town of Pembroke which is historical and has good dining options. It is ideally situated for visiting nearby towns and beauty spots, for example Tenby, Angle and Saundersfoot. [There were] such helpful staff who really
Elsa’s Castle
My granddaughter considers this to be the best piece of real estate on the planet! When given a choice of which site we should go to, her answer is always the same. And once we are there, the rest of Yorkshire has nothing to offer that would tear her away from what she calls ‘Elsa’s Castle’. We have just returned from [Scarborough] West Ayton but I am sure we will be there again!
Clive Loynes, via email
WONDERFUL WENSLEYDALE
During the month of October, my husband and I arranged a two-week motorhome trip, to reflect and to begin to come to terms with the loss of my dad, who died in September, one week short of his 99th birthday.
We wanted to choose somewhere we had never visited before – Lower Wensleydale Caravan and Motorhome Club Site in North Yorkshire fitted the bill perfectly. The site itself is gorgeous. The staff were superb – nothing was too much trouble and they were superfriendly. We checked out the lovely Harmby Waterfall, just over the road from the site; we walked further afield down into Leyburn, a great town for exploring and mooching around, with loads of great eateries.
Our stay at Lower Wensleydale was for four days only, but was just what the doctor ordered.
Valerie and Mike Lee, Shropshire
accommodated us and went over and above... It was a special trip for my husband and I because for the first time his sister and her husband joined us in a rented motorhome – [they] really enjoyed the trip and both are converted
Roll on our next holiday together at a Club site
Julie Weaving
Your mag needs you!
We would love to hear about your adventures! Please email us at magazine@camc.com.
I wanted to share a painting I created on site in the stunning dog walking field at Hillhead Club Campsite in Devon last week. We had a fabulous stay and I found plenty of coastal views in the nearby vicinity for painting inspiration, particularly Berry Head. But my favourite view was this one, on-site looking across to Hope’s Nose with my four legged friend. Christine Ingram
Tenby
BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
See camc.com for the latest site information. We also recommend that you check with businesses and attractions that are featured regarding opening dates and times prior to travel.
“ We had the feeling we had been let in on Scotland's best-kept secret ”
Portpatrick on the Rhins of Galloway peninsula
SECRET south-west
Karla Baker discovers a region bursting with history, culture and delightful landscapes on this tour of Scotland’s Lowlands
When you think of Scotland, what do you picture? If your mind instantly conjures up images of the rugged Highlands, you’re not alone. Millions of tourists flock there each year, merely using the Lowlands as a stepping-stone – but they’re missing out, as we discovered on a tour of the country’s quietly captivating south-west.
As we travelled we had the feeling we’d been let in on Scotland’s best-kept secret. While the landscape may not be as monumental as the Highlands, its diversity is wonderful: craggy coastlines meet rolling hills, glassy lochs, dense forests, winding rivers, sleepy villages and bustling towns..
We began our tour just north of the border with England, at Fir Tree Wood Certificated Location (CL). This lovely campsite is situated on a retired Christmas tree farm, with its pitches on the edge of a sprawling Nordmann fir wood. Each pitch boasts an electric hook-up and water tap and, despite its rural feel, the site is only 10 minutes from the motorway and within easy reach of amenities and attractions. Perfect!
SCOTLAND
S BARD
The lively market town of Dumfries was our first port of call. After learning about its history at the Dumfries Museum, we took a stroll along the River Nith, following in the footsteps of Robert Burns, poet and national treasure, who spent his final years living and working in the town. To get a taste of what his life was like, you can visit his unassuming former home or grab a drink at The Globe Inn – a 16th-century pub he frequented.
At the Big Water of Fleet Viaduct
Red Deer Range
On the road...
1
Fir Tree Wood Certificated Location
Great for walking, cycling and bird watching this is the perfect spot for a peaceful break or stop-over en route to the Highlands.
Sites Directory & Handbook p504
Member view
“We’ve been here for a week now and love the site! The owner couldn’t be more accommodating, and we’ve loved its location near the coast and countryside. It’s so relaxing and there’s lots to explore.”
Linda and John
“Guests return time and time again for our peaceful and attractive location on a working farm, and enjoy the many walks in the area. Rammerscales House and its grounds is a popular place to explore.”
Malcolm
The Boathouse Restaurant & Shop, Quayside, Glencaple, Dumfries DG1 4RE
Nestled on the edge of a small, coastal village with a strong community feel, the campsite overlooks the bay and the colourful row of houses that line it. It’s just a two-minute walk to the harbour wall or into the village for a bite to eat – I highly recommend stopping at The Hive for coffee and a slice of cake.
From this site you can explore the many coastal paths, or it’s just a 15-minute drive to Wigtown, known as Scotland’s ‘national book town’ due to its large collection of
second-hand book stores. However, we decided to head inland to the UK’s largest forest. Spread across more than 300 square miles, Galloway Forest Park provided a fantastic day out. We began at the imposing Big Water of Fleet Viaduct, before heading to the Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall for a short walk.
We then hand-fed the magnificent deer at the Red Deer Range before making our way east to Raiders’ Road Forest Drive. This 10-mile track, once used to transport livestock, is now a scenic driving route, open from April to October (a small charge of £3 applies and the road is not suitable for caravans/larger vehicles.)
Site view
As we meandered alongside the River Dee, with the sunshine breaking through the trees, we felt truly immersed in the forest. About halfway along we discovered Otter Pool, where the trees parted to reveal the perfect picnic spot on the edge of the tumbling water. We just had to stop! It was a tranquil end to a perfect day. On the way back to Garlieston we nipped into the Bladnoch Distillery, just outside Wigtown, and picked up a wee dram for later.
MULL IT OVER
The following day we hitched up the caravan and took the coast road to our next stop. New England Bay Club
2
Garlieston Club Campsite
On the edge of a sleepy fishing village, this site offers sea views and plenty to explore in the vicinity.
Pitches: 60
Max outfit length: 7.5m Bus stop within one mile
t’s a really peaceful site, and had a great walk to Rigg Bay beach with the dog. highly recommend The arbour nn for a lovely meal, walking distance from the site.” Peter Member view
Food & drink
aint inian s Tearoom, sle of Whithorn, DG8 8LH
Contact: stninianshall.co.uk, 01988 501197
Culture
Whithorn Priory & Museum, 6 Bruce Street, Whithorn, Newton Stewart DG8 8PY
Contact: historicenvironment. scot, 01988 500700
Outdoor fun
Kirroughtree, Galloway Forest gateway centre (for walks, mountain biking etc), near Palnure Contact: forestryandland.gov. scot/visit/forest-parks
For the family
Gem Rock Museum, Chain Road, Creetown DG8 7HJ
Contact: gemrock. net, 01671 820357
Member offer available: see camc.com/ greatsavingsguide for details, terms and conditions
Scan here to book a pitch at Garlieston
Waterfall, Galloway Forest Park
Photo by member Paul Farrington
Loch Trool, Galloway Forest Park
Dumfries Museum Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
New England Bay Club Campsite
An idyllic spot on the Rhins of Galloway peninsula, with sea views and beach access direct from the site.
Pitches: 145
Max outfit length: 12m
Tent camping available
Bus stop within two miles
Member view
t’s such a peaceful site perfect for sitting out with a book or watching the world go by. We enjoyed a lovely bike ride to Port Logan.”
Margaret and Dave
Staff view
“Our site is fantastic for relaxing on, and enjoying the direct access onto the beach. Because of our location, we’re very popular with dog owners, boaters and people who like to fish.”
Campsite has been on our bucket list since before we even bought our caravan, so we were excited to finally visit. It didn’t disappoint; after setting up on our beachfront pitch, we relaxed immediately, drifting off to the gentle murmur of the sea.
Perched on the Rhins of Galloway peninsula, it’s a quiet place and ideal if you’re intending to switch off and relax. However, if you prefer to keep busy, there are pretty coastal villages, castles, landscaped gardens and wide, empty beaches to explore.
We love geographical extremes, so of course had to visit Scotland’s most southerly spot, the Mull of Galloway. Looking out into the Irish Sea, the land narrows to a point on which is perched a towering lighthouse, which you can climb.
At the visitor centre we learned about its history, and got up close to the impressive vintage engines that power the last working foghorn on mainland Scotland. But it’s worth visiting for the views alone: on a clear day you can see England, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man from this one spectacular setting.
AYR WAVES
Feeling well rested, we travelled northwards to our next Club campsite, Ayr Craigie Gardens. In contrast to our previous stop, this site is situated in a bustling town, with shops, restaurants and a sprawling seafront within walking distance. We couldn’t resist popping down to the beach on that first evening, and were thrilled to discover that the sand was
Sunset near Ayr Craigie Gardens
Photo by member Thomas Greig
Near Garlieston Club Campsite
Photo by member Jackie Meredith
Otter Pool, Galloway Forest Park
Ayr Craigie Gardens Club Campsite
Located in a lively town, with an abundance of things to see and do within walking distance.
Pitches: 90 Max outfit length: 9.2m Bus stop within one mile
“We have a motorhome so the proximity to the town is great! It’s also a brilliant site for dog walking, along the river or the beach.” Colin and Sue Member view
Staff view
“There are fantastic beaches close by and an abundance of history in the local area.”
Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Dunure Road, Alloway by Ayr KA7 4LD
Contact: headsofayrtickets.co. uk, 01292 441210
Scan here to book a pitch at Ayr Craigie Gardens
“ A guided tour of the museum brought Burns’ story to life ”
firm enough for my powerchair to roll on! This is a rare occurrence, so we revelled in the opportunity to explore the shoreline together, watching the waves as the sun dipped into the horizon.
We’d discovered where Robert Burns’ story ended, but did you know that Ayr is where it all began? The thatched cottage in which he was born and raised until he was seven has been restored to its original state, paired with a modern museum.
A guided tour of the museum really brought his story to life, while his cottage gave us an intimate insight into his early years. It felt quite surreal to be inside the home his father built, sitting by the fire that once warmed him more than 250 years ago.
Louise Turpin
Mull of Galloway Lighthouse
Photo by member Rachel Shears
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Contact
Strathclyde Country Park
Club Campsite
Just off the M74 in a picturesque country park. Youngsters will be drawn to the nearby theme park.
Pitches: 107
Max outfit length: 9m
Tent camping available
“It’s a handy base to explore the historical Lanarkshire area from.”
Bob and Aileen
“[We have] the country park and loch next door, easy access to the city of Glasgow, and Loch Lomond reachable in around an hour.” Helene and Stephen
Food & drink
Ardnamurchan, 325 Hope Street, Glasgow G2 3PT
Contact: ardnamurchan.biz, 0141 353 1500
5 Culture
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8AG
Contact: glasgowlife.org.uk, 0141 276 9599
Outdoor fun
Go Ballistic Paintball, Blairlinn Road, Luggiebank, Cumbernauld, Glasgow G67 4AA
Contact: go-ballistic.co.uk
Member offer available: see camc.com/greatsavingsguide for details, terms and conditions.
BONNIE CLYDE
personal highlight was the replica Glasgow street dating back to the 1800s, complete with a cobblers, traditional pub, subway station and more. We felt like we’d been transported back in time.
While many holidaymakers are yet to discover this part of Scotland, we came to realise that plenty choose to return year after year. We will certainly be back, and I highly recommend you add it to your list before the rest of the world catches on.
Walking
M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park, Strathclyde Country Park, Bellshill, Motherwell ML1 3RT
Contact: scotlandsthemepark. com, 01698 333777 For the family
The final stop on our tour was Strathclyde Country Park Club Campsite. Conveniently positioned just off the M74 motorway near Glasgow, we’d previously stopped here en route to the Highlands and islands, but this time we were looking forward to exploring properly. In the immediate vicinity you’ll find Strathclyde Loch with its waterside walks, the grand ruins of Bothwell Castle, the David Livingstone Birthplace Museum, and more golf clubs than you can shake a… club at. If that’s not enough to keep you entertained, the centre of Glasgow is reachable in just 20 minutes. Glasgow is a vibrant city, rich in culture. There is a mixture of museums to visit, but we chose the Riverside Museum, on the banks of the Clyde. We lost ourselves among the array of vehicles on display, from old trams and police cars to machines used in TV and film. My
You can use the Outdooractive app to enjoy a variety of walking routes in the region. The basic app is free to use, but Club members benefit from a €10 discount on Pro or Pro+ first-year subscriptions. With the Pro version you receive features such as access to topographical maps and special activity networks, while Pro+ gives you 3D maps and more. To find out more and to see a collection of routes near Club sites, see camc.com/outdooractive.
Staff view Member view
Near New England Bay Club Campsite
Photo by member Ian James
Riverside Museum, Glasgow
• Askham Bryan College, Askham Bryan, York
• Boston LGV Training, Boston
• Caravan & Motorhome Training Ltd, Edgmond
• Go!Driving, York
• GPD Driver Training, Nottinghamshire
• Hills Driver Training, Plumpton, East Sussex
• JW Driver Training, Newport
• Keep Legal Ltd, South Ockendon, Essex
• Kent Training, Sandwich, Kent
• Ken Irwin Class One Driver Training, Northern Ireland
• Lancaster Driver Training, Lancaster
• P Vowles Training, Figheldean, Wiltshire
• RoadSafe Wales, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire
• Sparsholt College, Winchester, Hampshire
• Tilston Training, Llay, Wrexham
• Trans Plant Mastertrain, Devon
• Towing Solutions Macclesfeld, Cheshire
• Alan Brown Driver Training, Grangemouth, Scotland
Check out this selection of fantastic upcoming events* being held by centres within the Club’s 10 Divisions...
South East Division
22-26 January: Beech Farm Equestrian and Camping, Billingshurst, West Sussex (camcwestsussexcentre.co.uk)
29 January-3 February: White House Farm, Uckfield, East Sussex (eastsussexcc.org.uk)
13-15 February: Valentines, venue to be announced (southlondoncentre.com)
Stourport-on-Severn
Central Division
23-25 January: Sherwood Forest Holiday Park, Gorsethorpe near Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire (nottscentre.com)
23-25 January: Milestone Caravan Park, Cromwell, Nottinghamshire (lccmc.org.uk)
30 January-1 February: Astley and Dunley Village Hall, Stourport-onSevern, Worcestershire (midlandcentre.co.uk)
6-8 February: Sherwood Forest Holiday Park, Gorsethorpe near Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire (derbyshirecentre.co.uk)
Anglia Division
9-11 January: The Old Mill House, The Green, Saxtead, Suffolk (suffolkcentre.org.uk)
27 February-1 March: Burrs Country Park, Bury, Lancashire (cheshirecentre.co.uk)
20-22 March: Top Barn, Holt Heath, Worcestershire (worcestershirecentre.co.uk)
Northern Division
18 January: Winter Walk, route to be confirmed (northyorkshirecentre. co.uk)
23-25 January: Pantomime Rally, Victoria Park, Southport, Merseyside (southlancscentre.com)
12-15 February: Derwent Arms, Osbaldwick Village, North Yorkshire (yorkshirepennine.co.uk)
13-15 February: Drax Sports and Social Club, Drax, North Yorkshire (southyorkshirecentre.co.uk)
6-10 March: South Cliff Holiday Park, Bridlington, East Riding of Yorkshire (midwestyorkshirecentre. co.uk)
Scottish Division
29 December-2 January: New Year Rally, Braids Caravan Park, Gretna, Dumfries and Galloway (Dumfries & Galloway Centre, thescottishcaravanclub.com)
Cheltenham Racecourse
Three Cliffs Bay, Gower Peninsula
Burrs Country Park, Bury
Kinderdijk
All abroad!
Details of overseas holidays in 2026
NETHERLANDS
Departure date: 2 April 2026
Duration: 7 nights
Location: Camping Delftse Hout, Delft
Host: Lincolnshire Centre
Lincolnshire Centre’s week-long holiday will include visits to the world-famous Keukenhof gardens (famed for its displays of tulips), the Allsmeer flower auction and the picturesque windmills of the
30 December-4 January: New Year Rally, Tarbrax Village Hall, Tarbrax, South Lanarkshaire (Forth and Clyde Centre, thescottishcaravanclub.com)
campsite is close to several large beaches, while the pretty town centre of La Tranche-sur-Mer –where you will be find plenty of restaurants and shops – is a short walk or drive away.
Departure date: 18 August 2026
Duration: 14 nights
Location: Le Logis Du Breuil, Charente-Maritime
Host: South Yorkshire Centre
South Yorkshire Centre is also organising a trip to the west coast of France in the summer. Staying near the resorts of Saint-Palais-sur-Mer and Royan, the schedule includes various social events (including a boules competition and a cheese and wine evening), while other acitivities such as paddleboarding will be available at an additional cost.
NORTHERN IRELAND
Departure date: 25 July 2026
Duration: 14 nights
Location: Watertop Farm
Host: Worcestershire Centre
Enjoy a two-week stay at Watertop Farm, just six miles from the town of Ballycastle on the spectacular
Antrim Coast. From here you can enjoy attractions such as the Giant's Causeway and explore picturesque villages such as Cushendall and Cushenden.
ITALY
Departure date: 18 August 2026
Duration: 14 nights
Location: Camping Village
Baia Verde
Host: Midland Centre
Join the Midland Centre at this campsite close to the southern shores of Lake Garda. Enjoy amenities including a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and more –and take the chance to explore picturesque lakeside towns such as Sirmione and Desenzano.
RALLIES CAN BE BOOKED THROUGH ALAN ROGERS, PART OF THE CARAVAN CLUB LTD. FOR INFORMATION SEE RALLIES.ALANROGERS.COM AND CLICK ON THE RALLIES TAB, CALL 01580 214070 OR EMAIL RALLIES@ ALANROGERS.COM
To find out more about the Club’s Divisions visit camc.com/divisions For information on how to join your local Centre, visit camc.com/centres For rally listings visit camc.com/clubevents
*All events subject to availability and change – please contact Centre directly for up-to-date information.
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Wareham Forest
CL SITES UPDATES
CL SITES
Also see the CL section of the Club website (camc.com) for the most up-to-date details on all CLs. Pitch fees may be subject to variation –please check with the CL owner before booking. New CLs are also listed at camc.com/newcls.
NOTE: CL entries are identified by a reference/map number in the 2025/26 Sites Directory & Handbook. They are listed here using the same number, unless otherwise specified.
NEW CLS ENGLAND
EAST SUSSEX
LEWES (9.3m NNW) – Wivelsden Farm, Mr Nicholas and Mr James Harvey, North Common Road, Wivelsfield Green, Lewes BN8 4EH. 07715 103304; james.sj.harvey@ hotmail.co.uk. 198:TQ363203; 50.96599, -0.060550. OAY; 0.5 acre; adults only; dogs; adv bkg req; unfenced water; hdstdng; enhanced pitches: EHU with drinking water; 16A; max o’fit length: 7.5mtrs; peaceful; coarse fishing CL; views; wkg fm CL; wc (exc); shwr (exc); dog walk fr site; price fr £20 (pitch + all occ).
LANCASHIRE
PRESTON (8.2m NW) – Moss Croft, Mr Ian and Mrs Barbara Sharples, Moss Lane East, Treales, Preston PR4 3SP. 07503 191679; iandsharples@ hotmail.com. 102:SD451337; 53.797026, -2.834941. Open 31 Mar-31 Oct; 0.5 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; EHU; peaceful; ideal for families; views; lawned; dog walk fr site; price fr £18 (pitch + all occ).
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
NEWARK-ON-TRENT (5.9m N) –Sapphire Lakes, Mr Nathan Butterfield, Norwell Lane, Cromwell, Newark-On-Trent NG23 6JQ. 07393 047709; admin@sapphirelakes.co.uk. 121:SK791615; 54.145622, -0.817538. OAY; 1 acre; adult only; dogs; unfenced water; hdstdng; 16A; peaceful; coarse fishing CL; comm site adj; views; self catering accom on site; wc (sh); shwr (sh); Wi-Fi; info rm; dog walk fr site; public trans in 1m; price fr £25 (pitch + 2 ad).
Fenny Compton, Southam CV47 2XD. 01527 876438; 07721 047216; cl@craftedboats.co.uk; craftedboats. co.uk/fenny-marina. 151:SP472530; 52.173683, -1.376197. OAY; 0.5 acre; dogs; some sl pitches; levelling blocks req; unfenced water; grass; 10A; peaceful; ideal for families; views; Wi-Fi; shop on site; public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; price fr £15 (pitch + all occ).
UPDATES
IMPORTANT: Nightly fees may differ from those published in the directory due to a change in ownership or business costs. It is therefore essential to confirm current fees when enquiring or making a
booking. Not all CLs accompanied by a pub symbol in the directory are located on the site of a public house – some are near to a pub (up to three miles away), so please check with the owner before visiting.
250 NEWBY BRIDGE – Valley End. Alternative nbr: 07716 433127 removed.
398 PLYMOUTH – Furze Park Farm. Alternative nbr: 07814 754109 removed.
1074 BAMBURGH – Easington Farm. New main nbr: 01668 480676. 1110 BANBURY – Little Field. Sole nbr: 07779 026242; 01295 758207 –removed.
1239 HIGHBRIDGE – West Hill Farm. 01278 786326 no longer in use. New main nbr: 07424 539168.
1332 HALESWORTH – Bunkers Hill Park. Sole nbr: 07919 001099; 01986 784582 – no longer in use.
1443 GATESHEAD – Beldy Farm. Currently does not have EHU. 2061 SAUNDERSFOOT – Windy Hill Farm. New alt nbr: 07514 630814. 2128 BALLYNAHINCH – 30 Grove Road. Change of name: to Beechfield.
MAY 2025 MAGAZINE HULL – Hill House. Shared WC and toilet added.
CLOSURES
The following five-pitch CLs are closed and no longer certificated by the Club. This does not affect any other business that a landowner may be operating.
See camc.com for the latest site and CL information. Please note: routes provided by autoroutes or satellite navigation systems may include roads unsuitable for vehicles towing trailers or caravans. For caravan-friendly local routes to sites we advise using directions published in the Sites Directory & Handbook and on our website.
Newark-on-Trent
Lewes Castle
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A cut above
Jonathan Manning finds that carving is good for the soul as he learns to fashion a wooden spoon from a sycamore log
It’s peculiarly satisfying to make something as basic and timeless – yet at the same time as fundamentally useful – as a spoon. At first glance, spoons seem such unremarkable, rudimentary objects, reached for unthinkingly to stir, eat or cook. In fact few items are so aesthetically pleasing and practical – which makes it hard to comprehend how ‘winning a wooden spoon’ became a symbol of failure. As a quick aside, the origin of the prize that no one wants is said to date back to the University of Cambridge of the 19th century, when a wooden spoon was presented to the student who achieved the lowest score without failing in the mathematics exam.
Happily, everyone’s a winner at a class convened in woodland next to Grafham Water Club Campsite. Here, a small group has gathered in a clearing to learn the rudiments of ‘whittling’. It could be a scene from Robin Hood, with an open wooden shelter, wide benches and a blackened kettle simmering over an open fire. To one side there’s a beautiful, gypsy-style caravan, made entirely from wood, and to the other a splendid wooden cubicle housing a compost toilet with a sawdust ‘flush’.
Everything on site has been created by our instructor, Matt, from timber sourced in the 10-acre woodland he bought just a few years ago. It’s a dreamy location, the leafy canopy of oak, ash and sycamore creating a kaleidoscopic effect when the
breaks through.
INFORMATION
A
Contact: manorwood.uk
Stay: Grafham Water Club Campsite
There are four students here, including two boys aged nine and 13 whose mothers are keen for them to learn safe knife skills. Despite a comprehensive safety briefing, one person does manage to cut themselves today, and it’s neither of the lads (a line I type with four fingers, my thumb wrapped in plaster and bandage).
Ready for a brew?
Inspiration for what we might whittle today is lined up across a workbench, and ranges from spatulas to wooden spoons, butter knives, chopsticks and a honey dipper. They’re all beautifully finished and showcase Matt’s years of woodcarving experience – although trying to recreate some of the items may be a tad ambitious in the time we have available. This is a two-and-a-half-hour whittling workshop and Matt’s course dedicated to carving spoons takes six hours.
Undeterred, I decide to make a spoon, initially conceived as a dessert spoon until the challenge of transforming a small sycamore log into an implement that will fit neatly into my mouth necessitates a change in design. A cooking spoon is more useful anyway.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
The log is classed as ‘green wood’, its moisture content making it easier to whittle, although my first blows are to be with an axe and mallet. Matt demonstrates, using his handmade mallet and axe proper green woodworkers make their own tools before I take over.
sun
Above: Jonathan begins crafting a spoon; instructor Matt; a selection of carved objects
two-and-a-half-hour Whittling Workshop at Manor Wood costs £32.
It could be a scene from Robin Hood, with an open wooden shelter, wide benches and a blackened kettle simmering over an open fire
Clockwise from right: the woodland set-up; from raw material to finished product; Jonathan’s creation
GO WITH THE GRAIN
Three more introductory woodwork workshops across the country…
MARLBOROUGH, WILTSHIRE
Master the basics of carving sticks into something useful or beautiful, or both, on a variety of one-day courses (£75) with Explore the Great Outdoors.
Learn the craft of spoon carving and whittling in the expert hands of the Wiggly Path Company, on a one-day course (£85).
Info: thewigglypathcompany.com
Stay: Durham Grange Club Campsite
STIRLING, SCOTLAND
Carve your own mallet or spatula on a one-day Introduction to Green Woodworking course (£80) with Green Aspirations Scotland, a community interest company.
Info: greenaspirations scotland.co.uk
Stay: The Woods Affiliated Site
Chopping along the grain of the wood turns out to be remarkably straightforward, leaving a rectangular blank upon which I trace the outline of a spoon. Then it’s back to the axe to cut away as much of the wood on either side of the handle as I dare, before the more intricate whittling can begin.
The knife is Swedish, with a thick (2.8mm) carbon steel blade that is bevelled on both sides for a smoother cutting action. “Hold the knife in your right hand, the wood in your left, and lean forward so you are holding the wood beyond your knees,” instructs Matt, putting us in a position where any slip would see the blade slice nothing but fresh air. “You’re aiming for long, thin shavings, not short, thick ones.”
It swiftly becomes a meditative process, each carve of the knife accompanied by an out breath. Given the obvious risk, I’m utterly focused, all thoughts mindfully directed to the task in hand, all anxieties, deadlines and responsibilities relegated to the recesses of my mind.
Archaeologists have dated the earliest woodcarvings to more than 12,000 years ago, and there’s something very calming about sitting in an ancient woodland practising a craft that many generations of ancestors have employed before. I could easily picture myself doing this on the steps of a caravan or in a camping chair, whiling away lazy afternoons and long, warm evenings as a stick or log gradually takes shape.
It’s a slow process, two hours of work resulting in something more closely resembling a lollipop-shaped plank than a spoon, and it’s surprisingly difficult to achieve symmetrical swooping lines where the bowl meets the handle.
To sculpt the concave bowl, I wedge one end of the wood into my chest and use a hook knife with a blade that curls like one of Aladdin’s slippers. The action is similar to peeling potatoes, albeit with greater peril if you don’t keep your thumb tucked out of the way as you draw the blade towards you. And just to illustrate the danger to the two youngsters, I carelessly leave my first digit in the way of the knife, opening a wound that matches the curved shape of the blade. “Ouch,” I say, glad that the boys can’t mind-read. Matt patches me up with a plaster and bandage before demonstrating again how it should be done. It’s a small, intricate movement, and soon the crater of the bowl starts to form.
All too quickly time is up, and there’s no question that I’ve created an implement that resembling a piece of kitchen cutlery. It still needs treating with mineral oil, a process that will both protect it and bring out the beautiful grain in the wood, but it already looks and feels like a winning prize, and not a, err, wooden spoon.
“ Scotland is home to around 80% of the UK’s red squirrels ”
The famous FIVE W
Africa may have lions and elephants – but Scotland has its er o n big fi e Anna Haines goes on safari
hile many are probably aware of the ‘big five’ that can be seen on an African safari, you might not know that there is also a Scottish ‘big five’, comprising the red squirrel, red deer, golden eagle, otter and common (or ‘harbour’) seal?
Here I suggest places that you might like to visit and stay in the hope of catching glimpses of these beautiful wild animals.
RED SQUIRREL
For many years, Britain’s loveable native squirrel has been under threat from disease and competition following the introduction of the North American grey squirrel. Scotland is home to around 80% of the UK’s remaining red squirrel population, although numbers are slowly increasing across the nation, thanks to successful rewilding projects.
The woodlands of Angus and Perthshire are great places to spy these rascally creatures in action. Check out the designated squirrel feeding stations around the Loch of Kinnordy (nearest Club campsite – Forfar Lochside) or on the Leafy Loop trail at Loch Leven (stay at Balbirnie Park Club Campsite), particularly in late summer and autumn when the adults are busy hoarding food for the winter. Signs of nearby squirrel activity include the presence
of dreys (treetop homes, resembling birds' nests with a few entrance holes), as well as piles of discarded pine cones, evidence of a recent dinner party in the trees above!
RED DEER
Scotland is home to the largest population of red deer in Europe. These majestic beasts are widespread in summer across hillside and mountaintop, descending in winter to shelter in the forests. Red deer are distinguishable from Scotland’s other deer species – roe, fallow and sika – by their size (they are the largest land mammal in the UK), reddish-brown fur and paler tail.
Mar Lodge Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park (nearest Club campsite – Silverbank) has a healthy population of red deer, which can be seen on the fringes of Braemar village and into the heart of the estate, frequently around the Linn of Dee car park. According to countryside ranger Ben Dolphin, the autumn rut is a good time to visit the Linn of Quoich and listen for the stags roaring, announcing their territory and intentions to the hinds. Care should be taken not to disturb them, while Ben says visitors should also be aware that many estates undertake their stalking activities during autumn.
For a guaranteed encounter head to the Red Deer Range in Galloway Forest, where deer can be observed from a designated viewing area and hide (stay at Garlieston Club Campsite).
red deer at the Linn of Dee
Opposite: red squirrel at a feeding station, Loch Kinnordy
This page, from top: the River Dee near Banchory – otter territory; learning about Scottish wildlife at Muir of Dinnet Visitor Centre;
SENSATIONAL SEXTET
Six more fantastic Scottish residents
Capercaillie – The largest member of the game bird family, the nation’s most vulnerable bird resides in Scotland’s pinewoods and should not be sought out or disturbed; see lekitbe.scot for more information. However, they can be watched live on the capercaillie dust bath webcam at the RSPB Loch Garten Nature Centre, Abernethy (stay at Culloden Moor Club Campsite).
Pine marten – Once endangered, these exceptionally adept climbing mammals are making a comeback across the woodlands of north-east Scotland. They are frequently caught on trail cameras at Craigievar Castle (stay at Silverbank Club Campsite).
Scottish wildcat – One of Scotland’s rarest and most endangered species, this shy, nocturnal animal looks similar to a domestic tabby cat. Protected under Scottish and European law, a small number were released into the wild in the Cairngorms National Park in 2023/2024.
Mountain hare – A master of disguise, the mountain hare’s coat changes colour from grey-brown to white with the seasons to blend in with its surroundings.
Scottish crossbill: This large finch is endemic to Scots pine forests (notably Corrimony and Loch Garten), using its unusually shaped bill to prise out seeds from pinecones (stay at Culloden Moor Club Campsite).
Eurasian beaver: Reintroduced to Scotland in 2009, the second largest rodent in the world can be observed from the Argyll Beaver Centre in Knapdale (stay at Carradale Bay Club Campsite).
GOLDEN EAGLE
The golden eagle is Scotland’s most iconic bird and its number one predator. Exceptional hunters, they target rabbits, hares, grouse and foxes, and have even been known to attack herds of deer!
Although scarce (a 2015 survey recorded 508 breeding pairs), there are a handful of Highland and island locations where you are almost guaranteed to catch a glimpse of the birds, which dominate the skyline with their impressive two-metre wingspans. The hills around Ben More on Mull, for example, are excellent for golden eagles and their white-tailed cousins (you could use North Ledaig Affiliated Site on the mainland as a base). Use binoculars to look for perched and soaring birds along ridge lines and prominent hilltops; they use updraughts to gain height so note the wind direction and scan along hillsides and cliffs facing into the wind.
OTTER
Bouncing back from the brink of extinction in the 1950s, there is now a thriving otter population in Scotland. At home in both marine and freshwater habitats, these sleek swimmers are the toughest of the big five to spot. Coastal encounters are more likely, with otters preferring sheltered waters at low tide where feeding opportunities are abundant. They are best seen on calm days at dawn and dusk as they forage, surfacing and diving for a catch, which they typically then swim to shore to eat. The Moray Firth supports good numbers around the Black Isle and Chanonry Point (stay at Culloden Moor Club Campsite).
While it’s possible to find otters in almost every inland waterway (I have it on good authority that a pair is currently thriving on one of Dundee’s industrial estates!), finding otters inland is tougher, with ditches and reeds providing sheltered foraging grounds. The River Spey has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due in part to its otter population, with frequent sightings along the river outside of the Speyside Visitor Centre in Aberlour (you could stay at Grantown-on-Spey Caravan Park Affiliated Site). A lucky encounter will require a suitable stretch of waterway at dawn or dusk, binoculars and a lot of patience! Realistically, you are more likely to spot signs of their presence, such as spraints (droppings), tracks and the remains of meals such as fish bones or crab shells, rather than the otters themselves.
COMMON SEAL
The common or harbour seal is by far the easiest animal to tick off the checklist, with numbers topping 20,000 around Scotland’s coast. Best witnessed at low-tide ‘haul-outs’ on sheltered swathes of sand, mud and rocks, they can also be seen hunting offshore from many a clifftop or seaside town. Distinguishable from larger and more abundant grey seals by their round heads and close-set eyes and nose (grey seals have an elongated muzzle), common seals have a distinctive ‘banana’ profile – with their head and tail in the air – when hauled out.
Sizeable colonies can be found on the west coast, with good numbers on Arran basking on rocks around Blackwaterfoot and on the Corrie shore (you could use Carradale Bay campsite on the mainland as a base). Common seals can be seen in smaller numbers on the east coast, especially around Loch Fleet in Sutherland (stay at Brora Club Campsite) and hauled out with large numbers of grey seals on the sandbars of the Ythan Estuary in Aberdeenshire.
National Trust for Scotland
Rob Miller
Jennifer Clark, NatureScot
The iconic golden eagle
Otters are thriving
Common seal
Lorne Gill, NatureScot
Explore the world on an escorted motorhome tour
South Island New Zealand Seen on our South Island Discovery Tour
Photo by Junmo Lee
WORLD CLASS
We catch up with members Colin and Christine Hepburn who enjoyed a road trip like no other in Canada and the USA
Wherever you want to visit we’ll support you every mile of the way. We offer free cancellationsˆ if the FCDO advises against travel to your destination an a e an ATOL bonded financial protection. Find out more at camc.com/ wwconfidence
ˆCovers holiday cancellations in line with FCDO advice. T&Cs apply.
“Mindblowing” is how Club member Colin Hepburn describes the scenery he and wife Christine experienced during their tour of Canada and the USA last June. A foray into Yellowstone National Park was perhaps the pinnacle – “The Grand Prismatic Spring was incredible,” he says. “The water is hot and the bacteria at the edges of the pools create these beautiful colours – my pictures don’t do it justice.”
In fact this was just one of many highlights during a 35-day independent motorhome tour arranged by the Club. Starting and finishing in Calgary, the epburns route base on our est of the Canadian and American Rockies experience) comprised a huge loop taking in some of the most magical scenery in North America.
“We were concerned that, after five ee s e mig t be sa ing ere s anot er mountain t eres anot er la e but t at ertainl i nt appen er day was fantastic,” says Colin. “The route provided kept us off the interstates and
the itinerary on the app kept us ontinuousl entertaine – a e a loo at t is a e a loo at t at t eres a beautiful aterfall ere at as great Colin says that they had previously been tempted by another tour provider but were glad they ended up travelling with the Club. “It [the other tour ompan as eaper ut it t e lub e i nt a e to arrange t e
parks, hotels or transfers. It was all made easy via one big app which contained the airline tickets, the transfers, the campsite vouchers etc. That was an absolute godsend because we could just concentrate on what we wanted to do. It was well worth the extra expense.”
Another big draw was the ability to change the schedule to their liking. The Hepburns are based in Worcester, so it ma e more sense to fl from irming am via Amsterdam, rather than directly to Calgary from London Heathrow. They also wanted to stay longer in Yellowstone than the original itinerary suggested – not a problem.
And, finally, the couple were keen to witness the legendary Calgary Stampede at the conclusion of their tour, so the Club arranged another extra night. “In terms of a show, the Stampede is the best couple of days ever,” says olin t s t e biggest ro eo outsi e of the United States, featuring everything from bull and bareback riding to chuckwagon racing.”
Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park
Inset: scenery on the road
RIGHT MOVES
Club members for over 10 years, the Hepburns are already seasoned caravanners. Big fans of the Lake District and the New Forest and frequent travellers to Spain, they were undaunted by the prospect of driving a motorhome on another continent.
“Because I drive in Spain a lot, using the right-hand side of the road wasn’t an issue. I’m not used to driving a vehicle of that size, but I found it okay because the roads were big and I had no problem parking in car parks or at any of the campgrounds,” says Colin.
“The motorhome hire company was superb – they picked us up from the hotel. We arranged to hire bicycles [and mount them] on a rack – not a problem. The motorhome itself was brand new – it was terrific.”
So all that was left to do was to enjoy the scenery. “We saw our fair share of wildlife,” says Colin. “From Calgary
we went to Waterton Lakes where we saw a black bear with two cubs. We saw seven bears in all, herds of elk, numerous bald eagles – including one with a salmon in its talons. It was just awesome.”
Do they have any tips for others? “In Canada we bought a Canadian SIM card for our spare phone – that was fantastic,” says Colin. “That let us get on to the internet and access maps and so on. It was great, especially when you were walking about.
"And as soon as our motorhome fuel got to half full, we filled it up again. Some of the fuel stations are 200-300km apart, especially when you are in the wilderness.”
The Hepburns plan to apply for residency in Spain next year and are looking forward to further touring adventures with their caravan: “Once you are there [in Spain] there are no ferries to worry about – you can [easily] go to France, Belgium, Switzerland – wherever.” But what about another ‘worldwide’ experience? “We would definitely book again – and are looking to go back to Canada,” says Colin.
n If you would like to find out more about our escorted and independent motorhome holidays in Australia, New Zealand, Southern Africa, America and Canada, including bespoke experiences, please see camc.com/worldwide.
time out to relax
Left: the Hepburns saw a variety of fantastic wildlife
Main picture above: Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada
Insets above, left to right: bull rider at the Calgary Stampede; The Hepburns with their hired motorhome; downtown Calgary; Christine takes
El Portús, Murcia
FANTASTIC DEALS
80% of our overseas campsites offer special deals. Here’s just a taster...
LONG
STAY OFFERS
Colina do Sol, Portugal (Club ref: W29): book between 10 and 13 nights, get 10% off; book 14 nights or more, get 15% off (27 March-3 July/29 August-4 October 2026) Camping Koningshof, The Netherlands (Club ref: H03): book five nights or more, get 10% off (28 March-2 April, 3-12 May, 17-21 May, 25 May-2 June, 7 June-10 July, 30 August-24 October 2026)
FREE NIGHT OFFERS
NEW SENSATIONS
Find out more at: camc.com/confidence
DONT FORGET
n Book a European site, LeShuttle or ferry crossing through the Club and you’ll get the lowest price –guaranteed! To find out more see camc.com/ lowestprice
Scan this QR code to book a European campsite or visit camc.com/overseas for more information.
Check out a selection of fantastic overseas campsites that are new to the network for 2026
Fancy travelling somewhere new in 2026? We work with more than 350 carefully selected overseas campsite partners – from charming, peaceful locations to fun-packed resort-style venues boasting fantastic facilities for all the family. We introduced you to some great new Scandinavian campsites in the last issue; here we present a selection of additions to the network in France, Spain and Portugal. Some have special offers available – check individual site pages to find out more!
FRANCE
Camping Kost-Ar-Moor, Brittany (Club ref: B46)
Located close to a selection of beaches on the beautiful Brittany coast, this quiet, family-friendly campsite boasts a bar, restaurant and lagoon-style pool. Charming Bénodet and the beautiful walled harbour town of Concarneau are within easy reach for day trips.
Domaine Saâne et Mer, Normandy (Club ref: N20)
About two-and-a-half hours’ drive from Calais, nestled on a hill between the
Saâne river and the sea, this campsite is perfect for a relaxed getaway. Guests are within easy reach of the fishing village of Quiberville and its vast pebble beach.
SPAIN
El Portús, Murcia (Club ref: E72)
This newly renovated campsite on the Costa Calid enjoys a fantastic location surrounded by mountains and pine trees. Facilities include a bar, tennis court and heated swimming pool, but if you can drag yourself away, the fascinating port city of Cartagena can be reached in just 20 minutes by car.
Camping Peñíscola, Valencia (Club ref: E74)
This newly-built campsite on the Costa del Azahar (Orange Blossom Coast) features the likes of a bar-restaurant and a modern, heated facilities block with individual cabins. The beach of Peñíscola is just 4.5km away – and you can cycle into the town on a pleasant route starting at the back of the site.
PORTUGAL
Markádia, Alentejo (Club ref: W31)
This peaceful lakeside campsite is home to a bar-restaurant and terrace as well as a private beach and sunbathing area. Activities that can be enjoyed in the area include fishing, canoeing, birdwatching and stargazing, while the ancient city of Evora is less than an hour away for day trips.
Le Château de Lez-Eaux, France (Club ref: N02): book between seven and 13 nights, get one night free; book 14 nights or more, get three nights free (8 April-3 July 2026)
Ardennen Camping Bertrix, Belgium (Club ref: H26): book between 7 and 13 nights, get one night free; book 14 nights or more, get three nights free (27 March-30 June/1 September-8 November 2026)
EARLY BIRD OFFERS
ou tit oun rance u ref book by 31 January 2026, get 10% off stays (30 April-3 July/29 August14 September 2026)
La Venise Verte, France (Club ref: A37): book by 31 January 2026, get 10% off all stays (excluding 4 July-30 August 2026). See camc.com/overseasoffers for information, terms and conditions.
EU ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM
The phased roll-out of the EU’s new Entry/Exit system is expected to be fully operational by April 2026. Under the scheme, non-EU nationals travelling to the EU will have their facial biometric images and fingerprints taken at the border point. There is nothing to be done in advance but travellers should be prepared for potentially longer queues at borders. For more information, see camc.com/passportsandvisas
FERRY OFFERS
Members can claim a 9% discount on LeShuttle and 10% off English Channel ferry routes (including Newhaven to Dieppe) and Irish Sea crossings. They also benefit from a 20% saving on off-peak sailings (between 7pm and 7am) on Tuesdays-Thursdays on Irish Ferries’ Dover- Calais route.
Stena Line is offering 10% off public Economy fares and a free upgrade to Flexi fare conditions when travelling on Irish Sea or Harwich to Hook of Holland routes. Plus there are extra deals on certain sailings for caravans and motorhomes. For more information visit camc.com/ferries
To find out more about travelling abroad with the Club see camc.com/overseas
Kost-Ar-Moor
Unwind on one of our escorted tours
Discover European wine regions, historic towns and cities, scenic boat trips, visits to stunning national parks and much more. We’re excited to ofer 17 organised escorted caravan and motorhome tours for 2026 with prices from £579* per person.
Our tours are carefully created to include a balance of organised excursions and free time, all with friendly tour hosts close at hand for peace of mind. If you’re new to travelling abroad with your vehicle, why not consider one of our First Time Abroad tours in Brittany or Normandy, France?
Barcelona, Spain Seen on our Spanish East Coast tour
Caravaning des 4 Vents
(Club ref: P09)
Well placed for visits to Disneyland Paris, this wellmaintained site features the likes of a splashpool, playground and games room.
Pitches: 180 touring
Price: from £31.03 per night (based on outfit, electric pitch and two adults, from 20 March30 June/1 September31 October 2026 – check camc.com for latest prices)
Offer: book five nights or more, get one night free (20 March-14 July/1 September- 31 October 2026). Terms and conditions apply; please see camc.com for more details.
Food & drink
Restaurant La Fleur de Lys, 49 Place du Maréchal Augereau, La Houssaye-en-Brie
Mum’s the word
Château de Champs-sur-Marne, 31 Rue d Paris, 77420 Champssur-Marne
Contact: chateau-champs-surmarne.fr Culture
Outdoor fun
Lumigny Safari Reserve, La Fortelle, 77540 LumignyNesles-Ormeaux
Parrot World, Route de Guérard, 77580 Crécy-LaChapelle
Contact: parrotworld.fr, 0033 1 86 70 06 84
Scan here to book a pitch at Caravaning des 4 Vents
– part deux!
We catch up with Rachel Witek, who used the family caravan as a base for a Paris trip and more this summer
We were much more confident this time around,” says Rachel Witek (aka The Caravanning
Mummy). We first met Rachel and her family – husband, Lex, and boys Benji (11) and Toby (six) – in our February 2025 issue, following their first trip abroad in their caravan. On that occasion they headed to La Rochelle on the west coast of France, but this time they decided to really take the plunge on a 27-night trip taking in six French campsites and covering 1,800 miles.
“Knowing now, how easy the process of touring in France was, and how much we
enjoyed it last time, we decided to spend the whole month of August exploring various regions of France,” says Rachel. Following an overnight stay at Black Horse Farm Club Campsite on the Kent coast and a ferry to Calais, their route took them to Caravaning des 4 Vents (Club ref: P09) in Crèvecoeur-en-Brie. Not far from the French capital, it made an ideal base for visits to Disneyland Paris - but more on that later. Le Château de l’Épervière campsite (Club ref: L12) in Burgundy was next on the schedule, before a journey west to Le Château de Poinsouze (Club ref: L16) in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. This was followed by stays at Le Parc de Fierbois (Club ref: L20) in the beautiful Loire Valley and Les Ormes, Domaine and Resort (Club ref: B08) in
Main picture: the centre of Paris provided a great day out Below: the Witeks at Disneyland Paris
in tow? “All the campsites had washing facilities, so ensuring we had clean clothes was easy,” says Rachel. “We also travel with a small, portable washing machine which works really well for the boys’ clothes and our smaller items.
Brittany, before a final drive to Le Brévedent (Club ref: N01) near the Normandy coast. The family made sure they stayed four or five nights at most sites this time around.
“Our top tip learnt from our trip in 2024 would be, if you are doing stop-overs it’s worth doing a minimum of two nights [each time], not only for rest, but to enjoy the campsites and local areas,” says Rachel.
“We made a point of looking for some smaller, quieter sites and locations. We went into several local towns and villages where it was clear that we were the only tourists around. Frequenting these smaller shops and cafes felt like they offered a more authentic experience of France.”
What about the logistics of washing, eating and budgeting abroad with a family
“French supermarkets have so much choice and it was easy to eat well on a budget. A lot of the time we had simple lunches such as a baguette, bought fresh from the campsites for around a euro, with some local cheese and ham. We did lots of outdoor cooking, making the most of the warm evenings.
“Staying connected is important to us as a family. This year we took the plunge and bought a satellite internet system. It worked like a dream, ensuring we had high-speed internet connection everywhere we went. We also got eSIMs for our phones which were brilliant. They basically enable you to connect to overseas mobile networks without having to physically install new SIMs in your phone. They come with various data packages which you can tailor to your individual needs. Again, this meant we could stay connected to friends and family back home, everywhere we went.” While the entire trip proved memorable, Disneyland Paris was undoubtedly the
Les Ormes, Domaine & Resort
(Club ref: B08)
Set in the grounds of the Château des Ormes, this large resort has everything active families could wish for.
Pitches: 102 touring Price: from £38.79 per night (based on outfit, electric pitch and two adults, from 3 April21 May/25 May-2 July/ 31 August-31 October 2026 –check camc.com for latest prices) Offer: book seven nights or more, get one night free (3 April-2 July/31 August31 October 2026). Terms and conditions apply; please see our website for more details.
Food & drink
Bergamote (crêperie), 3 Pl. Jean de Châtillon, 35400 Saint-Malo Contact: bergamotesaintmalo. com, 0033 2 99 40 28 14
Culture
Le Fort National Saint Malo, Plage de l’Éventail, Saint Malo Contact: fortnational.com
Outdoor fun
Le Petit Train de Saint-Malo, Esp Saint-Vincent, 35400 Saint-Malo
Look out for special offers icons on campsites in our brochure – visit camc. com/ rochures to view online or order your free copy
Find out more at: ca c.co con ence
highlight, particularly for the younger members of the family. “In fact this was our 11th trip!” says Rachel. “However, this was the first time taking the caravan. It was so easy getting from Caravaning des 4 Vents to Disneyland in the car – only a 15-minute drive, with parking payable each day we visited (see disneylandparis.com).
“Having our own base meant that we could space out our Disney days and make use of the campsite facilities in-between, which included a pool, play area, boulangerie, a bar and a food truck serving some of the best burgers we have ever eaten!
“Having the caravan with us also meant we could be more flexible in our approach, especially when it came to packing, not being restricted to small suitcases. It also meant we could prep food and snacks to take into the parks with us, which helps with the budget a little as feeding a family of four several times a day can be quite expensive.”
The family also found it easy to visit Paris itself, catching the train into the capital from the village of Tournan-EnBrie (about a 15-minute drive from the campsite). “We were assisted by staff at the campsite on the best way to do this,” says Rachel. They were so helpful and all spoke fluent English for when our French wasn’t quite up to the job. We visited the Eiffel Tower and took a boat trip on the River Seine – that was a
anca e Brittany near es Or es Do aine an esort nset aint Ma o a so near es Or es
brilliant and easy way to see many of the iconic Paris landmarks. We would recommend using the Métro to get around. Once you get into the swing of it, it’s exactly the same as navigating the underground in London. The parts we used felt clean and safe, and in the middle of August it felt like there were more tourists than locals!”
A further highlight, near the end of the holiday, was Les Ormes, Domaine and Resort near the Normandy/Brittany border. This large campsite in the grounds of a château is perfect if you have energy to burn, with swimming pools, a golf course, an equestrian centre, zip lines, watersports and more to occupy your time. It’s also near to some beautiful coastal spots, including Mont Saint-Michel, the seaside town of Cancale, and Saint-Malo with its fort, old town and beach.
So what’s next on the Witek family agenda? “We are in the process of planning and booking our 2026 trips, which will be a mixture of UK touring… and of course another adventure over the Channel to France in the summer!”
f ache has inspire you to oo a fa i y a enture in rance isit ca c.co o erseas for ore infor ation an to rea ore a out the ca psites feature . ou can fin ache s cara annin a entures on socia e ia usin thecara annin u y.
Explore Europe in 2026
More…European campsites than any other UK touring Club
Your perfect European getaway awaits. From enriching cultural breaks and tranquil escapes to sun-soaked summer holidays, choose from over 350 hand-picked campsites across 17 countries.
New for 2026, we’ve added Sweden and expanded our Danish programme so you can explore even more of Scandinavia. Remember that members save up to 10% on ferry and tunnel crossings as well as benefit from our lowest price guarantee on all European touring holidays*.
Lake Bled, Slovenia near Bled campsite
Member photo by Mark Humphrey
Collectively, members have saved more than £14m over the past six years using our Member Offers. Check out this fantastic selection for outdoor adventures in 2026
CYCLING UK
Cycling UK is offering 50% off 12 months’ membership! By joining Cycling UK you’ll receive great benefits, discounts, and expert advice and information. Your membership also helps Cycling UK to lobby government, campaign for improved rights for cyclists and inspire millions more people to travel on two wheels.
15%
WALK WHEEL CYCLE TRUST
Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly known as Sustrans) wants to make it easier for “every one of us to roll, ride, amble, gambol, stroll, stride, trek and tread”.
Cycling UK members receive:
n Discounts from retailers including Halfords, Komoot, OS Maps and more.
n Award-winning magazine, Cycle, delivered six times a year.
n Access to a legal incident line.
n The opportunity to ride with hundreds of groups.
Cycling UK is offering Club members a full 12-month individual membership for £27.50 (usually £55), or a full 12-month household membership for £44.50 (usually £89).
Find out more and sign up online at camc.com/cyclinguk
The charity is well known for administering the National Cycle Network, but it also works with schools, champions wildlife and helps communities to transform neighbourhoods into safe, connected places.
When you shop with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, you’re helping support all this great work. Its high-quality products include regional and long-distance maps as well as the Traffic-Free Cycle Rides and Cycling Land’s End to John o’Groats (LEJOG) guidebooks. Members save a fantastic 15% on the trust’s maps and guidebooks – to find out more visit camc.com/walkwheelcycletrust.
ORDNANCE SURVEY
Celebrating its 10th birthday in 2025, the OS Maps outdoor mapping and navigation app has been downloaded more than 8 million times. Whether you are hiking, cycling, running, or simply exploring, OS Maps provides detailed and accurate mapping to help you find your way. Plan adventures with intuitive route planning tools, stay on track with real-time GPS navigation, and discover new places with downloadable maps and offline access. Club members can save a fantastic 25% on annual subscriptions. Find out more at: camc.com/ordnancesurvey 25%
Club members benefit from accessories worth up to £189.90 with every purchase of a folding Estarli e-bike (applies to direct orders or those made through a retail partner).
The offer applies to the following bikes, designed and built in Hertfordshire:
e20.7 Original Folder –lightweight, versatile
THE RAMBLERS ESTARLI
e20.9 X-Country
Folder– chunky tyres, more gears and torque
e20.X Easy Folder – belt drive, automatic two-speed motor, lightweight
A wide choice of accessory packs is available, featuring the likes of pressure washers, 12V chargers, panniers and rucksacks. Find out more at: camc.com/estarli.
10%
Get more out of your walks by joining The Ramblers – a charity dedicated to removing barriers so everyone can enjoy walking in green spaces, and to preserving and improving well-loved paths, tracks and trails across Great Britain. Club members benefit from a 10% saving on membership, which gives you:
n Unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks, guided by a walk leader
15%
MOUNTAIN WAREHOUSE
n Ramblers app – jam-packed with thousands of tried-andtested routes
n A copy of Walk magazine three times a year – it’s full of tips, walking gear reviews and routes to try
By joining The Ramblers you will become part of a driving force behind increasing access to green spaces, opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking. Find out more at camc.com/ramblers
Offering a great range of jackets, trousers, fleeces, footwear and more, Mountain Warehouse has everything you need for camping trips, ski breaks, dog walks and adventures with the whole family. With more than 220 stores nationwide and an online shop, it's easy to find what you are looking for. Club members save 15% (including on already-discounted items). Find our more at camc.com/mountainwarehouse
Scan this QR code with your phone or tablet to see all of our current Member Offers
Members receive discounts at hundreds of attractions thanks to the Great Savings Guide. Here are five family favourites near Club campsites...
FAIRHAVEN WOODLAND & WATER GARDEN, NORFOLK
At the heart of The Broads
National Park, this lovely garden comprises 136 acres of protected natural habitat. Visitors can explore four miles of woodland trails, enjoy seasonal boat trips and take advantage of the gift shop, plant sales and tea room. Dogs welcome on leads. Motorhome parking available –contact venue for details. Members receive two-for-one entry (not valid for special events).
Info: fairhavengarden.co.uk
Nearest Club campsites: Norfolk Broads, Great Yarmouth Racecourse
NEWCASTLE CASTLE
This imposing Norman fortress is a rugged reminder of northern England’s turbulent past. The attraction includes two surviving structures – the Castle Keep (where guests can explore the great hall, chapel and dungeons) and the Black Gate (a fortified gatehouse that hosts smaller exhibitions and activities). Pre-booking required. Members save 10% on admissions to Newcastle Castle only. Discount not applicable on shop purchases or events.
Info: newcastlecastle.co.uk
Nearest Club campsites: Old Hartley, Durham Grange
BIRDLAND PARK AND GARDENS, GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Meet more then 500 birds ranging from magical owls to rare species such as the Waldrapp Ibis. The life-size dinosaur models in Jurassic Journey will also appeal to visitors of all ages. Well-behaved dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads at all times. Members save 10% discount on adult and child admission only (offer not valid in conjunction with any other offer, group rates or concessionary tickets).
Info: birdland.co.uk
Nearest Club campsites: Moreton-inMarsh, Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford
BEAULIEU, HAMPSHIRE
There’s something for everyone at Beaulieu in the New Forest – one ticket grants access to the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Gardens, and more. Members receive 33% off day entry / 25% off advance admission (not valid in conjunction with any other offer or discount including the family ticket, and cannot be used on special event days). The discount is non-transferable and has no cash value. Applies to one member and up to three guests.
Info: beaulieu.co.uk
Nearest Club campsites: Black Knowl, New Forest Centenary
THEATRE DESK
Enjoy savings on theatre shows (including in London’s West End), stadium events and attractions across the UK with Theatre Desk. Theatre Desk offers a convenient, personal service via phone, email or website chat. Pre-booking is required using discount code. Discount of 10% can be applied to standard tickets.
Info: theatredesk.ticketswitch.com
Please visit camc.com/ greatsavingsguide for vouchers, discount codes and pre-booking where relevant, as well as terms and conditions for all offers. Please check site and attraction opening dates and times before visiting/travelling.
7 MOTORHOME, CAMPERVAN & CARAVAN SHOWS
3 DAY VISITOR EXHIBITIONS 3 FESTIVALS
28,344 Campers 56,964 Day visitors
3,137
motorhome
advice
van
manoeuvring courses
Silent
landrover
vintage funfair
archery
axe throwing
bushcraft
Dance lessons & much more!
Campout hub live music self build area silent disco foraging bushcraft Archery And much more
All mod cons
Karla Baker visits specialist Warwickshire modification company Coachbuilt to find out more about accessible leisure vehicles
Whether you like to escape for the odd weekend, go on extended tours of the UK or head overseas, a leisure vehicle is the perfect adventure partner. But what about those of us with disabilities? Is it possible for us to have those experiences while having our access needs met?
If you’ve read any of my previous travel features, you’ll know that the answer is a resounding ‘yes’! In fact with the right vehicle, and perhaps a few modifications, campervanning, caravanning or motorhoming can be the most accessible way to travel – even for someone with substantial access requirements, like me.
While it wouldn’t be feasible for manufacturers to build accessible vehicles as standard – after all, everyone’s needs are different, and so are our definitions of ‘accessible’ – there are countless ways they can be modified to suit your needs.
One way to improve accessibility for people who are ambulant but struggle with steps is to use a device such as a Motorstep – a motorised lift that elevates the user to the height of the door entrance without any need for vehicle modification.
However, should you require something more, the possibilities are endless. As a full-time powerchair user, the first thing I needed was the installation of a wider door for my caravan. This sort of work may be something a regular workshop is willing to attempt, but it can pay to take your leisure vehicle to a specialist company with a team that does this sort of adaptation day-in, day-out.
BESPOKE VEHICLES
One such company is Coachbuilt. Classed as a ‘third-stage’ manufacturer, it takes standard campervans, caravans or motorhomes (new or pre-loved), and modifies them to suit your needs. My husband and I have been huge fans of its work since discovering the company
Coachbuilt Managing Director Kate Birch (left) took Karla on a behind-the-scenes tour
almost 10 years ago, so we were delighted to become brand ambassadors in 2025. We were even more excited when we were invited for a behind-the-scenes tour of its workshop in Nuneaton, Warwickshire.
The business began in the summer of 2010, with an accessible vehicle build on the driveway of the founder’s family home. It has gone from strength to strength since then, building bespoke vehicles for an average of 120 new customers each year across Europe. Despite its growth, it remains a close-knit, family-owned business.
What really shines through is how much every member of the team cares about the customer.
Accessibility isn’t just a box-ticking exercise for them. From the very first consultation, they take time to understand not only your physical access requirements, but how you actually want to use your leisure vehicle day-to-day.
Customers are invited to be closely involved in the design process, from choosing layouts and equipment to fine-tuning small details that make the vehicle feel like home.
Clockwise from left: this lift made light work of raisin ar as powerchair; keen attention to detail; cutting a bespoke piece; computeraided design tool
WORKSHOP TOUR
Managing Director Kate Birch, who always impresses with her encyclopaedic knowledge and passion for the company’s work, showed us around during our visit.
As each vehicle is tailored to specific customer requirements, Coachbuilt has adopted an individual approach to the conventional production line. Bays house outfits at various stages of completion, while there is a dedicated area for servicing and repairs.
The ‘First Fix’ bay is where the process begins. During our visit, a Swift Voyager motorhome took up the spot. It had been completely gutted, ready for a full refit, having just had its door widened. It was quite startling to see it in such a raw state, but as we moved through the various stages, we began to appreciate the process.
In terms of modifications available, there really isn’t much that can’t be done! To improve wheelchair access, a ramp or hydraulic lift can be fitted, while space to manoeuvre inside can be created by changing the layout
The Motorstep lifts the user to the level of the door entrance
A
or even adding a 12V ‘slide-out’ section. If you need help with transferring to/from your wheelchair, a ceiling-track hoist can run from the living space to the bed and washroom.
I couldn’t help thinking about how the end users’ lives were about to change
including at the Club’s recent Motorhome and Campervan Design Awards.
FURTHER INFORMATION
COACHBUILT
Contact: coachbuiltgb.co.uk, 024 7634 1196
MOTORSTEP
Contact: motorstep.net, 01296 709630
ADVENTURE WHEELS
(Wheelchair accessible travel tips and experiences)
The washroom itself can be highly modified too, with grab handles, shower seats and fold-out shower beds available.
Sleeping areas can also be designed to suit your requirements – provision can be made for highly adjustable profiling beds and additional storage for medical equipment.
In the kitchen, larger refrigerators can be installed should you need extra space for medication, worktops can be lowered and cupboards can be redesigned. In one motorhome we looked around, the oven had been completely removed, and in its place sat a specially designed air-fryer drawer. Genius!
Driving your motorhome can also be made more accessible, with wheelchair restraint systems, hand controls and more.
THE FINISHED PRODUCT
One of my favourite things about Coachbuilt’s finished vehicles is that they don’t look clinical, or even significantly different.
The company’s close relationship with manufacturers means that it can source many original parts, and this, along with its impeccable attention to detail, results in an end product that is not just practical, but beautiful too. It’s no wonder it has won multiple awards,
We toured the workshop like two big kids in a sweet shop, wowed by the ingenuity of the team’s adaptations, but I couldn’t help but think about how the end users’ lives were about to change. For a lot of Coachbuilt’s customers, these aren’t just modes of transport; these vehicles represent the only way they are able to travel, spend quality time with loved ones and experience new places.
I’ve seen first-hand how life-changing an accessible leisure vehicle can be, and I’m thankful for companies like Coachbuilt that enable us to enjoy the freedom of travel and make everlasting memories, just like our able-bodied counterparts.
This vehicle had been stripped right back prior to equipment fitting
A track hoist
ACTYON
PACKED
James Batchelor checks out a headturning mid-size SUV from KGM Motors – formerly known as SsangYong
TTo see car video reviews, download the Digital Magazine from the App Store or Google Play. You can also read vehicle tests at camc.com/blog.
he KGM Actyon is part of a bold new start for the brand formerly known as SsangYong. The 70-year-old South Korean carmaker has built up a strong following in the UK for its rugged, no-nonsense cars, particularly in the specialist vehicle and caravan markets. The Actyon is ushering in a new era of design and panache – but is this newly found swagger just skin deep? We got behind the wheel of the Actyon to find out.
COMFORT
The Actyon is one of a trio of new KGM models to arrive over the past 12 months, marking a definite turning point for the carmaker. Its future line-up, still with its characteristic focus on ruggedness and off-roading abilities, looks exciting. However, in the here and now, it’s cars like the Actyon that are tasked with the brand-building.
The Actyon is being hurled into the mid-size SUV segment that’s fit to bursting with competent cars, but, let’s face it, ones that favour
identikit design. That’s why KGM has given its design team the task of coming up with something that stands out.
The Actyon has a coupe-SUV design to differentiate it from its newly-introduced sister, the more upright Torres. From the wide stance and the LED light bar at the front that references the four trigrams in the South Korean flag, to the almost Range Rover-like rear-end, the car has an upmarket appearance that helpfully makes it look different from the mid-size SUV norm.
Matching its upmarket look is the spec list. It only comes in range-topping K50 trim, and KGM has gone to town in terms of equipment. As standard, it gets a black leather and suede interior, 20in diamond-cut alloys, heated and cooling front seats that are also electrically adjustable, a chunky, squared-off, heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, a 360˚ parking camera, and an electric tailgate. The only option is metallic paint.
Being sisters, the Torres and Actyon share the same basic interior design, but the Actyon has an extra layer of luxury. The red and black trimmed
seats and red seat belts lift what could otherwise have been a slightly dour cabin, while the wood effect that runs across the dashboard looks good. In fact, the whole interior is nicely trimmed and is easily on par with rivals.
The Actyon gets a pair of displays housed in one screen that stretches across the fascia. The touchscreen has all the basics and handily features TomTom sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, but the system isn’t the quickest to respond. Also, most of the car’s functions are carried out through the screen –there are no buttons on the fascia or centre console – which therefore involves a lot of prodding around for the most basic of tasks.
While the on-board tech might be a little disappointing, the Actyon more than makes up for it when it comes to interior space. Up front the seats are large and supportive, while the ‘floating’ centre console has loads of storage space. Two six-footers will be very comfortable in the back seats as there’s tons of legroom, and headroom is excellent despite the Actyon’s sloping roofline.
There are some neat touches in the back, too – the front headrests can act as coat hangers or tablet holders, the rear doors open wide allowing easy fitment of child seats, and the rear speakers can even be switched off if passengers here
want to have a nap. Meanwhile, the boot is enormous – at 668 litres it’s larger than pretty much anything else in the class, and when the rear seats are folded that swells to an equally impressive 1,568 litres. A little annoyingly, the rear seats can’t be flopped down with handles in the boot – instead, you have to open the rear doors to release the latches.
KGM offers two types of towbar – a fixed one for £539.69 and a detachable type for £654.74.
DRIVING
Matching the sole trim level is just one engine. It’s a 1.5-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder petrol, and with 161bhp and 280Nm of torque it’s on par for the class, roughly matching the 1.5-litre TSI available in the Volkswagen Tiguan and SEAT Ateca, for example.
It’s a perfectly decent engine, providing enough mid-range punch on the motorway, and feels quicker than its official 0-62mph acceleration time of 10.6 seconds. The six-speed automatic gearbox is smooth enough and is the only transmission option – there’s no four-wheel drive version, either.
If you like your cars to have a sporty ride and handling set-up then the Actyon will please. The ride is pretty firm on faster roads, which
This column, from top: black seats with red trim in the front and back; six-speed auto gearbox was pretty smooth; on the road; fixed and detachable towbars are available
Luxurious cabin with squaredoff steering wheel
Sporty ride
Loads of boot space
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• 5 Year warranty included
• Fits all caravan alloy wheels
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WRAITH 3 WHEEL LOCK
Compatible with most motorhome & caravan wheels Sold Secure Gold, delivering exceptional attack resistance. Police Recommended.
HEAVY-DUTY HITCHLOCKS
Engineered to be the strongest hitchlocks on the market, combining 4mm steel & the toughest lock ever used for this purpose. Available for a range of hitches.
BC LOCK
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QUATTRO / TRIDENT / TRIPLE LEVELS
Lattice high-grip surface that pockets the wheel at every height, without the need for chocks. A solid base making them ideal for use on soft ground.
“ The chassis feels agile and keen to turn into corners ”
translates into excellent body control, and the chassis feels agile and keen to turn into corners. Some drivers will find the unforgiving ride grating at times, although, happily, it softens up around town, the car making light work of speed humps.
The Actyon drives well, but we just wish the engine was more frugal. KGM claims combined fuel consumption of 33.1mpg, which is some way off the majority of other mid-size SUVs. The engine is at its most efficient when cruising on the motorway where high-30s is easily achievable; in mixed driving, though, high-20s is more likely. KGM is considering offering a hybrid in the Actyon in the near future, which would be very welcome.
TOWING
With a kerbweight of 1,580kg and a 1,500kg towing capacity, the Actyon is well-suited to many medium-sized caravans. We hooked up to a Bailey Pegasus Modena (MRO 1,126kg / MTPLM 1,275kg) and the Actyon’s stiff suspension kept the van in check – there was minimal sway, and even crosswinds and HGV buffeting had little effect on its composure. But, when towing, the
firm suspension set-up felt even stiffer, giving the Actyon a tendency to thump into even the smallest of potholes.
Up steeper hills, the 1.5-litre engine can sound strained, but you can apportion the blame to the unit’s capacity – the same-sized engine in a Volkswagen Tiguan would be just as audible. At least the chunky 280Nm of torque gives some muscle when towing.
VERDICT
The KGM Actyon is a refreshingly different mid-sized SUV. It’s a handsome, head-turning SUV that is well finished and equipped, and is hugely spacious and practical inside. If you can live with it being a little thirstier than most of its rivals, and its firm ride, it’s worth considering.
Send us proof of a current renewal invitation from your existing car insurer and we’ll beat it by at least £25*. Visit camc.com/insurance for more information and full terms and conditions.
*Offer only applies when switching to the Club, is subject to insurers’ acceptance of the risk and cover being arranged on a like-for-like basis. Terms and conditions and excesses may vary from your current insurer and optional extras (such as Breakdown and Legal Expenses cover) are excluded. Future renewal prices will always be less or
price. Caravan and
Price as tested: £39,666
Insurance: 25A
Engine:
1,497cc four-cylinder turbocharged petrol Power:
161bhp (120kW)
Torque:
280Nm (207 Ib ft)
Transmission:
Six-speed automatic
Spare Wheel: Tyre repair kit; spare optional
Kerbweight: 1,580kg
Gross Vehicle Weight: 2,080kg
Gross Train Weight: 3,580kg
Noseweight Limit: 75kg
Towing Equipment:
Detachable tow bar (£654.74), 13-pin electrics (£362.83)
NCAP rating: NCAP rating: Not tested Figures from manufacturer’s literature
OCEAN DRIVE
Nick Harding ventures out in the latest, hightech version of a campervan classic
Make no bones about it, this is the most technologically advanced campervan or motorhome I’ve ever used.
Volkswagen’s California needs little introduction as an icon of the campervan world – but this version takes it to a whole new level of special. Not only is it a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) – with a petrol engine as well as electric motors for each axle – it also has Volkswagen’s on-demand 4Motion all-wheel drive system. The starting point is the car-based Multivan (not to be confused with the T7 Transporter van) and, true to California form, it’s a four-person campervan with electronic elevating roof and all manner of clever bits of kit. But just how practical is it? Let’s take a closer look.
BUILD QUALITY
Volkswagen has been making its own Californias since 2003 in a dedicated factory alongside the new Multivan production plant in Hanover, Germany.
Prices start at £85,415 for the California Ocean eHybrid 4Motion under review here. Our test vehicle also came with Indium Grey metallic paint (£984) and a retractable towbar (£948), but there is plenty more on the options list. Do be aware there’s not a particularly high payload.
It’s 10in longer than the T6.1 Transporter-based California and slightly wider. You also now get sliding side doors each side, with opening windows. The wind-out awning is standard, but you’ll notice it’s switched to the UK nearside.
Inside, the campervan fittings centre around Volkswagen’s own aluminium-edged furniture – it’s very strong and very light. Gone is the (admittedly far less comfortable for travel) bench seat that converts so easily
into a double bed. Instead, the latest twin seats recline flat and padded boards fold over to make the bed. They both come with Isofix and are easy to adjust on floor rails.
DRIVING
Economy figures are very impressive. Volkswagen quotes a WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) combined figure of 313mpg, while the 19.7kWh lithium-ion battery gives up to 54 miles of electric-only driving between charges. It’s also environmentally friendly, with an official combined CO2 emissions figure of 19-22g/km.
The cab itself is a model of modernity, with its digital instrument displays and main information system including a reversing camera, lots of connectivity, etc.
One criticism – the sliding doors to the furniture seemed to rattle while on the move. That aside, quite simply, this is the best campervan I’ve ever driven.
DAYTIME
The California’s long-proven floorplan features a spacious four-seater lounge area that plenty of larger van conversions struggle to provide. The table is a clip-on unit that’s tucked between the back of the kitchen unit and the nearside sliding door – it can also be used outside with the door open, or as a worktop extension to the kitchen, but it’s not large enough if you have four dining.
There is a larger, free-standing table (neatly tucked away under the bed extension for access via the tailgate) which can be squeezed inside. It actually has lugs so it can slot into the kitchen unit for extra stability – but I found it just a bit too big and a bit too high for comfortable use indoors.
TECHNICAL
Price (as tested)
£87,347 OTR
Engine
1.5-litre Euro 6e petrol plus two electric motors and 19.7kWh lithium-ion battery Power
An all-encompassing camper control unit on the offside sliding door pillar allows you to sort the lighting and heating, right up to on-board air conditioning.
NIGHT-TIME
The elevating roof is an absolute doddle to use. The sides and front feature a multi-layer technical fabric and the side panels are larger than ever, with zipped mesh sections for ventilation and to keep the bugs out. Plus you can open up pretty much the whole of the front section when the weather allows.
The better bed is up here, too. It’s some 2m (6ft 7in) x 1.14m (3ft 9in), with a 200kg weight limit, and comfort and support levels are excellent –thanks to the plastic springing under the onepiece mattress. You clamber up to this bed via the swivelled cab seats (but not their armrests).
The lower double is 1.98m (6ft 6in) long and a rather narrow 1.08m (3ft 7in). You only have a thin mattress here so might end up investing in a topper.
All windows aft of the cab have integral roller blinds. In the cab, there are fabric thermal panels. There are magnets for the side fittings, while the windscreen section has to be set up using elasticated poles. There is all manner of dimmable strip and individual lights but night-time illumination could be better. The roof bed has just a single goose-neck reading light, for example. Reading lights over the swivelled cab seats would help, as would an overhead general lamp right in the middle. There’s no lighting to the back area beyond the rear seats until you open the tailgate.
KITCHEN
Because of the need for access at the nearside sliding door, the whole kitchen is shortened. Latest California Oceans get just the one gas ring (there were two previously) combined with a (smaller) sink in stainless steel.
More critically, a lot of kitchen storage space has gone, although there’s still a cupboard with soft-close cutlery tray. As well as some storage space in here there’s a USB socket (one of six throughout the whole vehicle), 230V mains outlet (one of two; the other is on the back of the kitchen unit) and a three-pin outlet from the inverter, plus an isolator tap for the gas supply to the hob.
A larger sliding door locker, to the left of the kitchen, is ideal for food and crockery storage.
The fridge’s location means its drawer can be accessed from indoors as well as outside. Its capacity is 37 litres.
DETAILS
If you want to add a portable toilet, Volkswagen recommends stowing one at the back under the bed extension – that means fetching it through to the living area when needed, of course. There is a shower fitting – it’s cold water only and for use outside, which is handy for washing off mud from footwear, etc.
My general feeling is that despite more pockets, ledges, a fabric zipped clothes carrier on the rear offside side window, removable bins in each cab door and more, overall storage isn’t as accommodating as Californias past. That’s despite a larger high-level locker beyond the rear seats.
The set of six removable lashing points for luggage, drop-in ventilation grilles for the cab windows and the large aperture to access the fresh water tank for cleaning are among several great touches. You still get two outdoor folding chairs that stow in the tailgate – with higher backs than previously.
One noteworthy omission from the options list
VERDICT
Great to drive, this is the most technologically advanced motorhome out there, and it features some great little touches. But, compared to earlier Californias, some practicality has been sacrificed.
You can insure this motorhome with the Club for £545.64 per year*. Please see camc.com/insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for further details.
*Quote (correct as of 7 November 2025) is for the model tested worth £87,347 OTR with a Thatcham approved tracker fitted. Based on a 58-year-old male living in Kent, with a
From top: lower double bed; twin seats on floor rails; sink and single burner in the kitchen
Modern cab
PICKS OF THE PACK
Rob McCabe delves into the judges’ comments and summarises the results from our prestigious annual competition
Question: What do you get when you let eight judges loose on 50 caravans from 10 different brands, split into 12 categories? I’m tempted to say that the answer is ‘eight exhausted judges’. Although there’s some truth to that, the outcome that really matters is that you get to find out the identities of the winners of the 2026 Caravan and Motorhome Club Caravan Design Awards. All was revealed during a ceremony on the Club stand at October’s NEC show.
CLASS ONE ANY POP TOP CARAVAN
Even though all five entrants in this class came from a single manufacturer, there was – as you’d expect from Eriba – plenty of variety and lots of design cunning on show.
The three-berth Eriba Touring 540 Legend emerged triumphant, scoring highly for its everyday usability, handsome looks and – common to all these German-made models – supersolid build quality. “You get long sofas to kick back into, a third berth if you need it, and all without sacrificing the endearing style that comes as part of the Eriba Touring deal,” summarised one judge. The almost obsessive attention to detail didn’t go unnoticed: things such as the built-in step, the exterior attachment for the clip-on table, the curved, self-draining roof, the beautiful chrome sections and the built-to-last, chequer platetopped A-frame all won favourable comments.
Runner-up Eriba Touring 630 Urban racked up the points for the luxury of its huge (6ft 7in long) transverse fixed double bed. And with a big, 133-litre fridge and a generous swathe of worktop, the vital stats in the kitchen also impressed. Like its stablemates, it also looks great. “Effortlessly cool… it’s a stunning design,” was one verdict.
The Eriba Touring 620 Tango Red Edition in third place is, noted one judge, “the kind of
WINNER: ERIBA TOURING 540 LEGEND
As it turned out, it was one of the closest-run contests in the 31-year history of this prestigious event – great news for caravan buyers, who’ll certainly be able to choose from a crop of seriously talented vehicles when putting together their shortlists. But which offerings emerged from this thorough process of evaluation as the cream of that crop?
For lots more information on all the competition entries see camc.com/caravandesign.
caravan that’s going to tempt people away from campervans”. Another simply said: “It’s a thing of beauty.” It’s impossible to argue: its luscious, eye-popping, two-tone exterior paint job is such that you’d want to have your outdoor seats facing the caravan, never mind that glorious sunset behind you…
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES
n Eriba Touring
420 Legend
n Eriba Touring
530 Urban
RUNNER-UP: ERIBA TOURING 630 URBAN
THIRD PLACE: ERIBA TOURING 620 TANGO RED EDITION
To see video from the awards scan the QR code.
CLASS TWO CARAVANS 750KG-1,150KG
Forget any notion that light weight equates to lightweight specification. Indeed, with both the prizewinners in this class, precisely the opposite is the case: each comes with Al-Ko ATC, a kitchen with a dual-fuel hob and microwave, exterior barbecue and mains sockets, fitted stereo… and a lot more besides.
What helped elevate the Swift Challenger 390 into first place was its quality feel – Swift has a habit of producing caravans that instantly look and feel just right the second you walk in through the door. That was exactly the case with this beautifully presented, end-kitchen two-berther. One judge commented, “I love the muted warm colours of the interior decor,” while another added, “Great level of finish; couldn’t find any fault with the workmanship.”
The Xplore XC Lite won plaudits for its clever four-berth layout, one judge declaring the rear dinette/bed with an overhead bunk to be “ingenious”. More than one of the
panel members praised the fact that you can load up this generously equipped, genuine family caravan and still have an outfit weighing under 1,100kg.
Swift has a habit of producing caravans that look and feel just right
The Xplore won plaudits for its clever four-berth layout
WINNER: SWIFT CHALLENGER 390
RUNNER-UP: XPLORE XC LITE
CLASS THREE
ANY CARAVAN UP TO £26,000
“Keep it simple,” is celebrated chef Gordon Ramsay’s oftrepeated recipe for success. The manufacturer perhaps had that mantra in mind when devising the two-berth Bailey Phoenix Black 420: parallel-sofa lounge, offside centre kitchen, rear washroom, nice light weight, pleasant surroundings, sensible money. Put it all together well, give it some sharp-looking new graphics, add in welcome little touches such as the excellent Sonos wireless Bluetooth speaker, and… boom! First place.
The same formula secured a runner-up spot for the Bailey Phoenix Black 440. It has a shorter front lounge than the 420, but the presence of a fixed double bed in such a thoroughly sorted caravan that costs under £26k is bound to win it a lot of friends.
There’s also an awful lot to like about the two-berth, end-kitchen Xplore XC Duo, which completes the podium in this class. As well as offering an amazing standard of specification, it boasts a cleverly
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES
n Swift Sprite Major 4 EB
n Weinsberg CaraOne 390 QD
designed interior that, as one judge put it, “makes terrific use of space”. The huge lounge is particularly impressive: it’ll seat six, never mind two, and if you don’t mind simply hauling out sleeping bags and using those vast sofas as singles, you’ll never, ever have to make up a bed.
RUNNER-UP: BAILEY PHOENIX BLACK 440
WINNER: BAILEY PHOENIX BLACK 420
THIRD PLACE: XPLORE XC DUO
CLASS FOUR ANY TWO BERTH CARAVAN
“A seriously well-planned and well-executed caravan,” was how one judge described the Bailey Unicorn Deluxe Seville. In fact it racked up good scores in all departments, from its wonderfully comfortable lounge to the super-practical kitchen, luxurious end washroom and quality of the fixtures and fittings. It’s attractive from the outside too, as one judge confirmed: “A classic design, still holding its own against more recently introduced models.”
Hard on the Unicorn’s heels was the Swift Conqueror 480, which impressed the panel with its top-drawer presentation and finish.
“A fabulous place to be”, “The fit and finish are superb” and “It has a lot of presence and style” were some of the many flattering verdicts.
The third-placed Coachman Laser 480 Xtra shares the same parallel-sofa lounge/centre kitchen/ end washroom configuration as its two rivals here, but comes in an eight-foot-wide bodyshell. That fact wasn’t lost on the judges, who lavished the upmarket Coachman with points for the tangible feeling
of space on board, especially in the lounge and kitchen areas.
“An amazing interior!” said one impressed panellist. However, there was some criticism of the sound quality from the small, built-in Bluetooth speakers now fitted in Coachman’s tourers.
The Bailey is a well planned and well executed caravan
n Xplore XC DUO
WINNER: BAILEY UNICORN DELUXE SEVILLE
RUNNER-UP: SWIFT CONQUEROR 480
THIRD PLACE: COACHMAN LASER 480 XTRA
CLASS FIVE CONVENTIONAL CARAVAN WITH THREE OR FOUR BERTHS
It’s nice to feel that you’re being just a little bit spoiled sometimes, isn’t it? And that’s exactly the feeling you get when you settle into the three-berth Coachman VIP 520’s wonderfully upmarket lounge. One judge spoke for many by saying: “It’s great just to sit here and admire your elegant surroundings.” The high standard of fit and finish was the subject of many compliments too, including: “Feels like a beautifully made caravan, no question about that.”
The imposing, eight-foot-wide, twin-axle Adria Alpina 623 UL Colorado secured second place on account of its heady cocktail of lovely build (“Finished off to perfection,” according to one judge), thoughtful equipment provision, classy fixed-singles bedroom and bountiful space. The kitchen especially drew praise for its “phenomenal” storage.
The easy-to-like Eriba Touring 540 Legend completed a decidedly international top-three in this closely contested category. Its fine build quality was mentioned in dispatches by more than one judge.
Great just to sit here and admire your elegant surroundings
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES n Swift Sprite Alpine 4 DB
WINNER: COACHMAN VIP 520
RUNNER-UP: ADRIA ALPINA 623 UL COLORADO
THIRD PLACE: ERIBA TOURING 540 LEGEND
CLASS SIX
ANY FIXED DOUBLE BED CARAVAN WITH THREE OR FOUR BERTHS
“A smart caravan with a luxury feel and a stylish-hotel vibe.” That judge’s verdict on the first-placed Coachman Laser 855 Xtra pretty much sums up what awaits you if you choose to make this eight-foot-wide beauty your next caravan. And as well as wallowing in all that sumptuousness, you’ll also benefit from “an impressively high standard of workmanship” throughout.
Most of the caravans in this fiercely contested class are destined to be used as plush holiday accommodation for couples, but the judges were impressed by the Laser’s ability to provide great-sized beds up front (whether double or singles) should the need ever arise to bring its four-berth capability into play.
The recently restyled Buccaneer Skyliner Bermuda gained praise for its handsome exterior (“A really smart-looking, eye-catching caravan that looks high-end,” said one judge) and the quality of the interior fittings, even if the faux-leather upholstery earned more mixed reviews. This new arrival “comfortably holds its own and sticks out as being a great option,” said one assessor.
There was widespread admiration too for the striking-looking
Swift Conqueror Grande 650L that rounded off the top three. “Impressive!” declared one of the judges, adding: “It’s a modern, top-of-the-range tourer that has such aesthetically pleasing lines.” The expertly colour-co-ordinated, airy interior was also applauded. “A beautiful space in which to live and relax,” said one judge.
RUNNER-UP: BUCCANEER SKYLINER BERMUDA
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES
n Adria Alpina 623 UC Mississippi
n Bailey Phoenix Black 640
n Elddis Avanté APEX 550
n Eriba Touring 630 Urban
n Knaus Sport&Fun 480 QL Black Selection
n Weinsberg CaraOne 390 QD
n Xplore XC QUAD
THIRD PLACE: SWIFT CONQUEROR GRANDE 650L
CLASS SEVEN
ANY FIXED SINGLE BEDS CARAVAN WITH THREE OR FOUR BERTHS
The judging team as a whole picked up on the winning Elddis Crusader Shamal ’s outstanding build (to quote just one panellist, it was “really great quality”). The points also racked up for the fresh, modern styling of its
bodyshell, and the nicely planned and executed interior layout, with its centre washroom being equally accessible from the lounge or rear bedroom.
The second-placed Bailey Phoenix Black 642 really hits the mark as a comfortable, practical and spacious caravan that does all the important things well. The versatile storage options and roomy washroom earned plaudits, although not everyone
RUNNER-UP: BAILEY PHOENIX BLACK 642
was enamoured with the curtainfree front lounge.
Families should definitely consider these layouts, given that permanent single beds can continue to cater for teenagers until the lure of a week or two on a CL with mum and dad begins to lose its appeal. And no caravan meets this brief better than the Adria Altea 612 DL Tyne: one of its rear singles extends to a bewildering 6ft 7in long, and the other one (at 6ft 2in) can still cater for
all but the tallest. Parents needn’t feel hard done by, either, given that the front seating converts into a veritable football-pitch-sized 6ft 11 x 5ft 6in. Whether for a couple or families, it’s a good-looking, sturdily built caravan with lots of Adria’s signature neat design touches.
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES
n Knaus Sport 460 EU
THIRD PLACE: ADRIA ALTEA 612 DL TYNE
CLASS EIGHT
ANY CARAVAN WITH FIVE OR SIX BERTHS
Hats off to Buccaneer for designing a range-topping luxury tourer with six berths. Even if the Buccaneer Starliner Aruba’s £50k-plus asking price may be a stretch for many families, it’s an enlightened move that earned praise from the judges. The Aruba’s imaginative layout also lends
itself to use as a posh two-berth, with the generously proportioned centre dinette effectively serving as a dedicated breakfast/dining room.
One judge noted: “It has a huge amount of features and top-of-therange equipment.”
Clever design helps the Adria Altea 622 DK Avon feel roomier than it looks from the outside.
Given that three of the runner-up’s six berths are lengthy fixed bunks, it’s an excellent, future-proofed
option for larger families. “A very good balance of beds/seats/ storage,” noted one judge.
Tying with the Altea in second place is the Bailey Pegasus Amalfi, which has been nicely updated in ‘Black Edition’ guise for the new model year. With a fixed double bed and two fixed bunks, there’s no daily bed-converting involved at all if it’s being used as a three- or four-berth, which is an appealing proposition for many families.
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES
n Elddis Avanté APEX 840
n Knaus Südwind 580 QS Black Selection
n Swift Challenger Grande 640
WINNER: BUCCANEER STARLINER ARUBA
RUNNER-UP: BAILEY PEGASUS BLACK AMALFI
RUNNER-UP: ADRIA ALTEA 622 DK AVON
CLASS NINE
ANY CARAVAN 8FT OR WIDER
“Looks like it excels in every area.” That one verdict on the Bailey Alicanto Grande Alvor was pretty much in line with all the others, resulting in a clear win for the big Bailey. The word ‘luxury’ featured prominently on the scoresheets, which is no surprise – evidence of the L-word is everywhere you look, from the sumptuous lounge to the hotel-standard bedroom with en-suite facilities. It’s practical too, with oodles of storage and a kitchen with enough prep space to cater for a banquet.
The icing on the cake? It has to be the price. Its two rivals here both clear £50,000 – the Alvor is just over £40k.
There was near-unanimous praise for the second-placed Coachman Lusso II ’s wonderful build quality. “It really is beautifully put-together; among the best I’ve seen from a British manufacturer,” reckoned one of the judges. “Flawless,” said another. The interior is especially impressive, although there was once again criticism of the Bluetooth speakers.
The Buccaneer Starliner Cruiser makes an immediate impact, as one judge noted: “What a really striking-looking caravan! It has a lot of style, and the swoopy front end looks very modern.” Indoors it features top-notch equipment and a
WINNER:
BAILEY ALICANTO GRANDE ALVOR
cracking layout, including a kitchen that one of the panel reckoned was “maybe the most spacious I’ve ever encountered in a caravan”.
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES
n Adria Alpina 623 HT Rio Grande n Elddis Crusader Borealis n Knaus Südwind 580 QS Black Selection n Swift Conqueror Grande 645
RUNNER-UP: COACHMAN LUSSO II
THIRD PLACE: BUCCANEER STARLINER CRUISER
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES
n Bailey Pegasus Black Bologna
n Elddis Whirlwind 860
n Eriba Touring 630 Urban
n Knaus Sport 460 EU
n Xplore XC QUAD
WINNER: SWIFT CHALLENGER 580
CLASS TEN
ANY FAMILY CARAVAN
The class-topping Swift Challenger 580 once again showcases Swift’s talent for producing caravans that make you feel right at home as soon as you glance inside. Its restrained, calming decor offers style and class without shouting about it – “greatquality fit and finish by design” as
one judge put it. The comfy lounge converts quickly into a big double, or you can leave it as it is and use the compact sofas as child-friendly singles. When you’ve tucked the kids in, you can retire to the luxury of your own fixed island double bed. Bliss!
If it’s luxury you’re after, you could dig a bit deeper into your savings and splash out on the second-placed Buccaneer Skyliner Commodore. It features an interior that was
RUNNER-UP: BUCCANEER SKYLINER COMMODORE
summed up by one panellist in a single word: “Stunning”. The big twin-axle Skyliner has a lounge that can be converted into a huge double bed or two singles that extend to 5ft 11in – ideal for older children.
The Adria Altea 612 DL Tyne makes another well-deserved top three appearance, having finished in the same position in Class Seven (Any fixed-single-bed caravan with three or four berths).
THIRD PLACE: ADRIA ALTEA 612 DL TYNE
CLASS ELEVEN ANY LARGE FAMILY CARAVAN
Phew! If this were a parliamentary by-election, there would have been calls for a recount, such were the wafer-thin margins separating all of these talented candidates. First place went to the Adria Altea 622 DK Avon, the runner-up spot to the Bailey Pegasus Black Amalfi and third to the Buccaneer Starliner Aruba. Especially hawk-eyed readers may have noticed this trio also shared the rostrum in the five-or six-berth caravans class, so we don’t need to repeat the qualities that allowed them to enjoy such a successful competition! Here, though – in a category that assumes the caravans will be fully occupied by families all or most of the time –the Altea jumped one place to claim top spot, courtesy of its three huge fixed bunks and the excellent ‘den’ that gives the kids their own space on board. As a full-time family caravan it’s certainly a winner.
WINNER: ADRIA ALTEA 622 DK AVON
OTHER CLASS ENTRIES
n Elddis Whirlwind Evolve 868
n Knaus Südwind 580 QS Black Selection n Swift Challenger Grande 630
If this were a parliamentary byelection, there would have been calls for a recount...
THIRD PLACE: BUCCANEER STARLINER ARUBA
RUNNER-UP: BAILEY PEGASUS BLACK AMALFI
WINNER: COACHMAN LUSSO II
CLASS TWELVE
ANY CARAVAN OVER £45,000
At a shade under £54,000 on the road, the Coachman Lusso II is the most expensive of all the caravans entered in this year’s awards. So you’d expect it to be proper posh… and it certainly is. It oozes opulence from every pore, boasting, as one judge put it, “a true boutique-hotel feel throughout”.
The luxuriousness extends to the thick-pile, removable carpeting, which another panellist declared to be the best they’ve encountered.
The Swift Elegance Grande 850, meanwhile, certainly lives up to its name – it is a beautiful, comfortable caravan, laden with equipment that extends to Alde underfloor heating. And we can’t sign off without recognising the ingenuity of whichever Swift marketeer came up with the name of the Elegance’s
RUNNER-UP: SWIFT ELEGANCE GRANDE 850
kitchen worktop finish – Miracle Vanilla. I’ll have two scoops, please.
The Buccaneer Starliner Barracuda is the fifth Buccaneer to claim a top-three finish in this year’s awards, testimony to the
Consett-built models’ beautiful new interiors and lavish equipment levels. Build quality is excellent too, with one judge stating that the manufacturer “should be commended for its efforts”.
THIRD PLACE: BUCCANEER STARLINER BARRACUDA
What’s cooking?
Joseph Joseph ‘Elevate’ Fusion
5-piece Stainless Steel Utensil Set
This set is ideal for cooking in a slightly smaller space, and includes everything you might need for caravan or motorhome meal prep: a solid turner, ladle, slotted spoon, ‘precision’ tongs and large tongs. The weighted steel handle on each item features a clever integrated ‘rest’ designed to keep the head off the counter top, improve hygiene and reduce mess. The tools slot vertically into a compact storage stand for easy access. The silicone utensil heads are heat resistant up to 210˚C.
RRP: £70
Contact: josephjoseph.com
Jane McGowan takes a look at a range of kitchenware
10%
Brunner Pirate Mini 20cm Cooking Pan Set
This compact caravan or motorhome cookware set comprises three pans, one lid and one detachable handle. The pans are made from lightweight, robust aluminium and feature a non-stick coating for easier cleaning. When not in use they can be stacked easily, making them a great space-saving option for your touring vehicle. The set comes with a handy carry bag.
RRP: available for £72 from Prima Leisure; members pay £64.80 via Club Shop; see shop.camc.com for details, terms and conditions
Contact: brunner.it
Petromax Enamel Pan
Merging practicality with ‘old-school’ design, this versatile and lightweight pan makes an ideal addition to your touring kitchen cupboard. Featuring a scratch-resistant enamel surface, the vessel is designed for use on all stove types, while the wooden handle acts as a natural heat barrier. It also has useful scaling on the inside, helping you to measure ingredients correctly.
RRP : £34.95 (0.5l); £39.95 (1l)
Colours: black, white
Contact: berryuseful.co.uk
VonShef Round Electric Frying Pan - 30cm
This great-value electric multi-cooker is ideal for one-pot cooking. It can be used to braise, simmer or sauté, making it a versatile and space-saving purchase. Powered from the mains, it features five heat settings and can reach temperatures of up to 220˚C, while the durable aluminium body has a tough glass lid and steam outlet. A detachable cord allows you to serve straight to the table. As with similar appliances, make sure there is enough space to use it safely while touring and keep away from curtains etc.
Bowl size: 30cm wide
RRP: £24.99
Contact: vonhaus.com
Rex London Single Oven Mitt
This oven mitt will brighten up any motorhome or caravan kitchen. Featuring an attractive wildflower print and made from 100% cotton, it is both pretty and practical, and features an independent thumb to enable easier handling. It is designed to withstand temperatures up to 230°C and also comes with an attached hanging loop for convenient caravan storage. If you prefer, a ‘double oven glove’ version is available for £14.95. Both products are hand wash only.
RRP: £9.95
Contact: rexlondon.com
CLUB SHOP
Top picks
Each month we pick a selection of items available at great prices from the Caravan and Motorhome Club Shop. For more information visit shop.camc.com.
Motorhome Windscreen Covers
We have a range of easy-to-fit motorhome windscreen covers available at Club Shop. Helping to keep your touring vehicle warmer in winter and cooler in summer, they also offer an extra
premium taps and showerheads could give your pride and joy a boost in terms of style and functionality. Members save 10%!
Winter wonderland
from top: small matchstick lichens add a splash of colour in winter; scarlet elf cups grow on fallen mosscovered branches; rooks begin nest-building at this time of year
David Chapman observes a variety of creatures and plants during a frosty walk
It had been a cold night, but I was still determined to make an early start. I stepped outside and, once the mist had cleared from my specs, I could see there had been a frost. I took a deep breath and the cool air hit the back of my throat – it tasted clean and fresh. I happily filled my lungs before donning a woolly hat, scarf and gloves. It was time for my regular walk in the Cornish countryside.
This walk takes me through woodland, across farmland and even diverts into a small patch of heathland before finally heading out onto a bracken-covered hilltop. I enjoy a familiar walk; knowing every inch of the way like the back of my hand means I spot all the seasonal changes, and with nature as my companion no two days are ever the same.
The sun was about to rise above the hills to the south-east, but as I descended into the valley bottom the temperature dropped and I entered an ethereal world where everything was decorated with frost crystals. Beside the river the stony ground is home to heather and gorse. By the time winter comes, the heather has finished flowering, but its brown seed heads are still attractive. By contrast, the gorse is just starting to put on a show and the yellow of its petals leaps out from winter’s muted colour palette.
As the frost yielded, its melting crystals revealed small patches of colour on the ground. A huge variety of lichens grows around the base of heather, creating a world in miniature. My favourite is the matchstick lichen, a distinctive red-capped species. Though tiny in size, it adds a welcome vibrancy on a cold day.
Among the moss-covered twigs and branches at the damp edge of the wood I found a bigger burst of red: scarlet elf cups. These fungi, each
Above from top: snowdrops begin flowering in January; frost crystals on the berry of a cotoneaster
Above
“ With nature as my companion no two days are ever the same ”
Frost on rose hips
Above from top: a sunny winter’s day sparks spring-like behaviour in our resident birds; yellow brain fungus, which can be found on gorse stems in winter
Below: the kestrel is our only bird of prey that truly hovers
Below right: bramblings (female pictured) can sometimes be seen in the UK during winter
about the size of a penny, are quite sufficiently described by their name. There’s another even more peculiar and equally colourful fungus: the yellow brain fungus. This grows on the gnarled, old stems of gorse bushes, and has a jelly-like structure with folds and lobes that loosely resemble the shape of a brain.
A short stretch along a country lane takes me past a couple of patches of snowdrops. Their delicate nodding flowers seem to rise earlier each year. The frost which had caused the leaves of some plants to wilt hadn’t affected them; they can store water outside their cells so the frost crystals don’t shatter their structure.
Nearby, on a south-facing bank, I briefly picked up the sumptuous scent of violets in flower. Their fragrance is created by a chemical called ionone, which initially stimulates our olfactory system but then quickly blocks our receptors, making our sensory encounters with sweet violets regrettably ephemeral.
STIRRING SOUNDS
I could now feel the warmth of the sun on my back. As I removed my hat and gloves the birds also began to respond to the rising temperature. A robin poured out its distinctive tune, and from a distant treetop a song thrush put heart and soul into a series of repeated phrases. A flicker of something on a post beside the hedge caught my eye. It was a dunnock, often inappropriately called a hedge sparrow. Many consider them drab but I strongly disagree. They might not be particularly colourful, but they have loads of character. Sensing spring in the air, this individual was displaying to another by perking up its tail and flicking its wings faster than my eye could register. Certainly not drab.
The nearby trees hold a rookery and its inhabitants too were sensing a change of season. While some flew down to the ground to collect twigs to bolster their nests, others remained in the canopy only to steal their neighbours’ finds.
I wondered whether there is any truth in the notion that conditions over the coming spring can be predicted by how high rooks build their nests: the closer to the top, supposedly the better the weather will be. As I could only see rooks refurbishing existing nests I remain to be convinced!
I am lucky that much of the farmland walk across is owned by the National Trust and some of the field margins are left unploughed over winter. This is where I see finches. Chaffinches, goldfinches and linnets take to the air in chattering flocks. I always pay attention when chaffinches head to the skies because there is a chance of spotting a few bramblings among them. Brambling are similar to chaffinches, but only visit the UK in winter. When they fly they can be distinguished by the white patch on their rump.
Farmland gives way to higher ground – a hill dominated by bracken, gorse and scattered bushes. It’s quiet up there in winter, but a pair of buzzards took off from a nearby wall and soared gradually higher into the sky. Their broad wings allow them to catch the thermals and they gain height effortlessly. In a bid to impress the other, one bird folded its wings and plummeted towards the earth. Not wanting to be outdone, the second bird performed a roll as if it was taking part in an air show. The two are partners and this is their way of bonding.
I also spotted a kestrel, hovering as only kestrels can. I had time to get my binoculars onto it and admire the way it uses wings and tail to keep its head still. Through the year kestrels will eat a variety of prey including beetles, slow worms and lizards, but in winter they focus their attention on small mammals, earthworms and sometimes even small birds. I am full of admiration for a bird that can spot and catch a field vole. The truth is the kestrel has an advantage; it can see in the ultra-violet spectrum which enables it to see where the voles have been marking their territories, and this gives them a big clue as to where to start looking.
It's mostly downhill from here to my house, and as I yomped home I chewed over the wonders of wildlife and smiled to myself at the beautiful things I had seen. I even enjoyed another fragrant blast of violets as I returned along the same lane.
THE PERFECT START
Sammy Faircloth helps her friends to set up their caravan during their first trip away…
I’ve been into caravans my whole life, but it wasn’t until 2013 that I bought my very own. I wanted my family to experience the fun and freedom of caravanning and for us to share adventures together.
Our close friends, Chris and Michele, on the other hand, have always been devoted tent campers. But when they both reached a milestone birthday, they decided it was time to swap canvas for comfort and explore at their leisure with a caravan in tow. We sat down together to talk through what they needed — the right layout and the right specification. And, of course, we needed to make sure their chosen towcar was a good match.
In September 2025, they took the plunge and bought their very first caravan — a Bailey Phoenix Black 420 (which, incidentally, has just won its Class in the Club’s Caravan Design Awards –turn to page 82 to find out more). They then joined the Club and booked onto one of its excellent training courses to build their confidence.
They were then all set for their first adventure, though naturally a little anxious about what to expect. To lend some reassurance and a helping hand, I joined them on that first trip, helping guide them through the basics and making sure everything went smoothly.
ARRIVAL
Our chosen destination was Cambridge Cherry Hinton Club Campsite, conveniently located not too far from home. On arrival, you’re always welcomed by friendly and knowledgeable site staff, who are more than happy to explain anything you need to know — such as how to pitch your touring outfit and make use of the site services, etc – as well as offer information on local attractions, nearby shops and transport links. My friends had me for guidance, but if you are unsure of anything don’t be afraid to ask!
PITCHING UP
Reversing onto a pitch can sometimes feel daunting, but thankfully Chris had already completed the Club’s Practical Caravanning training course, so he soon had the caravan well positioned.
The next step was to unhitch the towcar and fine-tune the caravan’s position within
the campsite’s markers, making sure the wheel lock lined up correctly and that the caravan was level. A motorised mover (a device fitted to the caravan chassis that allows the user to manoeuvre the caravan using a remote control) made the job fairly straightforward. Luckily, this site is relatively flat, so only a small front-to-back adjustment was needed, easily done by adjusting the jockey wheel. (If you want to find out more about levelling look out for an upcoming article.)
Once the caravan was in position, levelled and secure, we could lower the corner steadies and step inside. From this point on, everyone has their own way of setting up — some prefer to split tasks, with one person working inside while the other sorts out the external connections. Personally, we tend to tackle the outside jobs first, especially if there’s a chance of rain!
SERVICES
In terms of connecting to the site services, I like to start with the electric hook-up so that the fridge can get to work straight away. Always connect the cable to the caravan first, then to the electric bollard. Make sure you fully uncoil the cable (leaving it coiled can cause it to overheat and, in extreme cases, catch fire) and lay it on the ground considerately so it doesn’t become a trip hazard for you or others.
Club site staff are always happy to help!
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Once connected, switch on the main control panel and check that the fridge is running on 230V. If there’s no power, check the consumer unit to ensure the miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) are in the ‘on' position, and that the Residual Current Device (RCD) master switch is also ‘on’. It’s good practice to test the RCD’s automatic trip function by pressing the small test button — the switch should trip out instantly. Once tested, reset the RCD. Now move on to the water system. Position the waste water container and connect the drain hoses, ensuring they’re firmly attached to prevent leaks. Then, fill your fresh water container and connect it to the caravan’s water inlet. Inside, check that the water heater drain-down valve is closed — this is usually found in a seat locker beside the water heater, and may be yellow or blue depending on your caravan make.
With all taps closed, turn on the pump at the main control panel. Open one tap at a time, starting with a hot tap. Allow water to flow until any air locks clear — be ready for the odd splash or spurt at first! Once the hot water runs smoothly, repeat the process with the cold tap, and then work through the others in turn.
Now turn on the gas supply. On a Calor cylinder, this is done by rotating the nozzle anti-clockwise.
Finally, set up your toilet system. Remove the cassette and add the correct amount of chemical additive along with about one litre of water. Refill the flush-water tank and, if you like, use a rinse additive to help keep the bowl clean and fresh.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I’ve focused here on the essentials, but of course some caravanners like to go a step further by setting up Wi-Fi, a TV aerial, or
even a satellite dish. Once the key connections are sorted, it’s time to put the kettle on, relax, and enjoy a well-earned break! You can find lots more information on the pitching up process in the Technical Information section of your Sites Directory & Handbook
n A big thank you to Chris and Michele for allowing me to share and document this important stage of their caravanning journey. I hope it’s been a helpful start to their new adventures.
We have lots more Practical articles on our blog. Simply visit camc.com/blog and scroll to ‘Tips and ideas’, or scan the QR code.
A Club towing course will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to master reversing safely
Always connect the electric hook-up cable to the caravan first, before plugging into the site bollard
Remember to fit your wheel locks and any other required security devices – failing to do so could affect your insurance
After connecting to the bollard, turn on the main control panel
A remote-controlled motorised mover makes it easier to fine-tune your pitching position
Attach the waste-water pipes to the outlets, making sure they’re securely connected to prevent leaks
Fill the fresh-water container and connect to the caravan’s fresh-water inlet
This drain-down valve is currently in the ‘open’ position, so be sure to close it before turning on the taps
Turn on the gas by rotating the nozzle
The Caravan and Motorhome Club’s 2025 AGM was held at the Paddock Pavilion, Warwick Racecourse, on 25 October. Here are the highlights…
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Chair’s Report
CYBER SECURITY
A detailed account of the cyber security incident of January 2024 was given at last year’s AGM, but David noted that the effect was felt during the year reported on in this AGM. Financial losses for the Club were modest, but the disruption caused upset and inconvenience to members and staff for which we apologise. The Club has made very significant changes to our security approach.
MEMBERSHIP
In 2024 we recruited almost 63,500 new member households. We also successfully renewed over 303,000 members; the total member household count stood at approximately 363,000 at the end of the year.
CLUB CAMPSITES
A significant focus in 2024 was addressing the financial challenges faced by many members. A price drop initiative of up to 15% on 1.5m pitches across 60 Club campsites was a resounding success. Members spent more nights at these sites compared to 2023 and saved a total of around £2m on their touring holidays.
Seasonal promotions, including spring, summer and autumn offers, were popular and resulted in similar uplifts in occupancy, whilst saving members an additional £700,000.
One of our most impactful initiatives was the Free Site Night
Voucher; by sending a free voucher in both the first and last three months of the year, we gave members the opportunity to enjoy two free nights. This led to an increase in members booking stays during the quieter seasons. Members who used their vouchers saved more than £1m.
In total, promotions and vouchers led to member savings of around £3.7m in 2024.
We also made our booking process more accessible by lowering the deposit to just £5 per booking. This has been a huge success, with member bookings increasing by 8% and no material increase in cancellations, so we have extended this policy indefinitely.
In 2024 we successfully completed a number of significant projects to improve the quality of facilities for members for years to come. David
provided detail of the works at Godrevy Park, Steamer Quay and Incleboro Fields Club campsites, praising the work of those involved. He also covered the projects completed during 2025, including the new Experience Freedom glamping areas at ady argaret s Park and The Sandringham Estate Club campsites; Sandringham has seen a full site redevelopment.
The Chair also discussed work at Bridport Bingham Grange Club Campsite, which will see the creation of a new reception and cafe.
2024 was a pivotal year for strategic acquisitions, disposals and leases. We acquired the Sherwood storage site in Nottinghamshire, providing 1,159 storage spaces, and completed the acquisition of Lickpenny Caravan Park in Derbyshire [now Lickpenny Matlock Club Campsite].
Club Chair David Turner indicated that 2024 was a year of steady performance and progress for the Club in the face of considerable economic headwinds and inclement weather.
Lickpenny Matlock Club Campsite
Incleboro Fields
Godrevy Park
Additionally, we purchased land adjacent to Chester Fairoaks Club Campsite for possible future expansion or amenity use. We sold the freeholds for Broomfield Farm and High Onn, generating funds which have been used for the new acquisitions, and also saw the expiry of several leases. However, we also secured a major new long-term lease at Steamer Quay.
CERTIFICATED LOCATIONS
2024 saw a decline in the total number of applications, but the CL team opened 76 new CLs and reinstated another eight. This maintains the high pre-pandemic level of new sites. David praised the team for ensuring a safe and up-to-date network for members, as well as the CL Advisory Group and the volunteers who complete over 2,200 annual visits to provide essential support and guidance to CL owners.
OVERSEAS TRAVEL
A record number of overseas site nights were booked in 2024 and it was our second-highest year in terms of revenue. For crossings, 2024 was a record year for revenue. The Chair noted that over 80% of bookings now come through the website or the app.
FINANCIAL SERVICES
David discussed the Club’s motorhome/campervan insurance, highlighting that we offer a Defaqto Five Star Expert Rated product. We continue to see a growth in members buying our motorhome and campervan insurance products while sales of such vehicles are strong. In 2024 we completed the transition of SAGA customers who wished to take up the Club’s Caravan Cover; plans are in place to launch a revised product.
SERVICE DELIVERY
Our Contact Centre had a year of consistent, high-quality performance, with over 434,000 calls. Commitment to staff has also been a key highlight – our successful Apprenticeship
Programme continued and all 12 of our new apprentices graduated with distinctions before transitioning into full-time roles. Two have already been promoted. We were shortlisted in four categories at the UK Contact Centre Forum Awards in 2024, proudly winning the ‘Giving Something Back’ award.
EVENTS AND AWARDS
The Holkham Hall pop-up campsite was a great success, with over 80% occupancy. The NEC pop-up also achieved over 90% occupancy. Both were highly rated by attendees. ClubFest 2024 was held at Weston Park with a record number of attendees – members reported an enjoyable long weekend and the wide range of entertainment and activities was very well received. In 2024 we ran the Towcar of the Year Awards 2025, as well as the annual Caravan Design, Motorhome and Campervan Design and Lightweight Leisure Trailer awards. These help members choose new outfits, and are also useful for buyers of used outfits to refer to in the future. The awards are well received by members and industry partners. Our dealer engagement strategy is thriving, while the exhibitions and shows team brought in our second-highest ever number of new members.
PR AND SOCIAL MEDIA
2024 saw the successful launch of the new Club Together platform, with new features and enhanced moderation tools for a more positive experience. PR had a fantastic year, generating almost 1,000 articles and items with a total media value worth over £15m, including lead articles in major newspapers.
STRATEGY & INITIATIVES
In response to the ongoing challenge of payroll costs, a major focus was a step change in site efficiency. This initiative looked at staffing hours and the lengths of site seasons and, with the support of Regional Managers, targets were met before the staff selection process in September.
We have successfully embedded the Club’s booking system across our campsites and, in 2025, have established a new Quality, Systems & Standards team. The aim of this is to improve consistency, standardisation, and accountability at every site.
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Our commitment to sustainability continued to be a guiding framework for operations. Through our partnership with Green Tourism, 122 of our sites, along with Head Office, successfully achieved the Gold Award.
The electricity metering trial at Steamer Quay has been a success, with members reducing their energy usage and seeing lower costs as a result. We are now working on a new user-friendly app and kiosk to support a wider rollout. Water-saving trials at a number of sites have also yielded great results.
We have also expanded the number of sites offering fast check-in after a successful trial at four locations.
HEAD OFFICE
Our Distribution Centre and Facilities Management teams reviewed existing processes to improve efficiency. Crucial maintenance work was carried out at our head office in
East Grinstead, including the installation of new fire doors and a full roof replacement.
DIVISIONS AND CENTRES
Our Divisions underwent a significant change with the adoption of a new constitution and they now have greater autonomy to support their constituent Centres. During the year, the Divisions hosted six Question Time events across the UK. David thanked all involved for making these important events a success.
Club Centres continue to provide hundreds of events and rallies, which are open for all members to enjoy. We currently have 56 active Centres.
CONCLUSION
The Chair reported that the Club has seen a positive year to date in 2025. Thanks were extended to the Director General, Directors and staff at head office, site staff across the network and volunteers. David also expressed his gratitude to Club Officers, members of the Executive Committee, Chairs of our sub-Committees and their members. He praised Divisional team members and the enthusiasm of our Centre Committees, ClubFest crew and rally officers, whose efforts provide huge enjoyment to many thousands of families. Lastly, David thanked his wife, Jan, for her tireless work and support behind the scenes.
363k Member households
1.5m
Pitches included in the Price Drop initiative
£3.7m
Total saved by members using promotions
80% ... of overseas bookings now made via app/web
Holkham Hall
Photo by member Jules Owen
2.1m
Site nights during 2024
Treasurer’s Report
Club Treasurer Alison Woodhams began by recapping the major events of 2024 as well as weather patterns and the UK economy generally, providing context for the Club’s overall financial performance.
KEY FINANCIAL METRICS
The Club continued to invest strongly in the site network and made further progress in its IT infrastructure and other investments to prepare it well for the future. The overall financial strength and liquidity of the Club remained robust and demonstrated again a high degree of resilience to tough market conditions.
Statutory revenue was down 1.5% year on year at £139.7m, producing a statutory surplus of £4.3m, which was an acceptable return by historic standards.
Closing cash of £37.6m was down compared to the previous year due to acceleration in the pace of the Club’s capital expenditure programme.
The Club’s Earnings Before Interest Tax And Depreciation – a good measure of the cash generative power of the Club – remained strong at £16.4m compared to that achieved in 2023 of £16.2m.
Overall surplus of £4.3m represents a 3.1% return on revenue that was well ahead of budget, aided by some one-off benefits of capital receipts and tight management of costs.
REVENUE TREND
Alison examined the six-year revenue trend (starting in 2019), which showed both the impact of the pandemic in 2020 and the subsequent bounce back in 2021, along with a return to more normal trading conditions in the last three years. She noted that it is gratifying to see that our total revenue in 2024 was 19% higher than it was in 2019.
2024 REVENUE
Sites revenue reduced slightly by 2.2% to £70.3m, a credible result in a year with a number of promotions and discounts to members to
stimulate growth and maintain occupancy and revenue in a subdued travel and leisure market. Site occupancy was stable at 2.1m site nights, bucking wider market trends, and average pitch yields were slightly lower at £29.19 per night versus £30.10 in 2023.
Membership fell in 2024, ending at 363,000 member households. A modest £4 a year increase in membership subscription rates to £63 resulted in subscription revenue moving up marginally by £0.5m to £19.5m.
Insurance and Financial Services revenue was flat at £25.7m which was a good overall performance. We continued a rate freeze through the year on Caravan Cover.
Travel revenue including the Alan Rogers Travel group was £20.6m in 2024, slightly down from £21.2m in 2023. Marketing revenues remained relatively steady at £3.5m.
SURPLUS
Overall surplus was £0.2m lower at £4.3m but the underlying trading surplus from all areas was up a combined £0.6m net of interest and exceptional sales of less popular, loss-making campsites.
£14.3m
Insurance & Financial Services surplus
Site surplus before central overhead was £0.3m higher at £8.5m – this was due to net cost reductions of £2.4m offsetting the revenue reduction of £2.1m. Notably, electricity charges were much lower by £3.6m while staff costs were up by £0.8m, driven by the increase to the National Minimum Wage (on which wage differentials are pegged).
Insurance and Financial Services had a best-ever year, increasing the already high surplus levels of £12.2m in 2023 to £14.3m before central overhead. Significant growth in motorhome insurance and the introduction of some 6,000 ex-SAGA customers to Caravan Cover, plus the continued push to reduce claims costs, reinsurance and handling costs, all combined to boost results.
Travel performance established its recovery from the pandemic restrictions, making a small contribution to central overhead despite high servicing costs in the year. Marketing costs were subject to inflationary pressures and were up by £0.6m – a necessity to maintain and protect products and services across the organisation.
Colourful skies at River Breamish in 2024
Photo by member Allan Brown
£20.6m
Club travel revenue
Costs and provisions increased £1.9m year on year to £28.2m, held down by tight cost management despite significant supplier and inflationary increases.
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
We continue to invest in our sites network [see Chair’s Report for details], spending nearly £29m in 2024. The impact of 2023’s spend resulted in a decrease in our cash to £37.6m – still a healthy level.
OUTLOOK IN 2025
Alison discussed the financial outlook in 2025, indicating that this remains strong across the board. New memberships are ahead of targets and renewals remain close to plan. Site occupancy is just ahead of expectations, following strong offers for members, good weather and excellent Net Promoter, experience and value for money scores.
Insurance and Financial Services are benefitting from good claims experience, solid revenues and strong retention in a competitive market, while Overseas Travel booking levels
£70.3m
Sites revenue in 2024
are also buoyant and remain on par with pre-pandemic levels.
Good progress has also been made in managing costs and improving efficiency despite the impact of last year’s Budget increases on National Insurance, the National Minimum Wage and business rates. Summarising, Alison said that the financial outlook is very encouraging for the full year.
SURPLUS TREND
The Treasurer looked at the surplus trend over the past five years as well as the outlook for 2025. As a mutual club run for the benefit of our members, we are a not for profit or not for dividend organisation – but the Club has to make a modest trading surplus to ensure reserves and cash are sufficient to weather the bad times, and generate enough cash to continue investing in sites.
Alison indicated that as ever, the Club will take a balanced view to navigate a path that takes account of pressures on the cost of living and inflation for members and staff alike, while ensuring sufficient financial
resources are retained to push on with necessary capital investment, improving member service levels and a modest growth agenda, given the outlook for the pastime remains positive for the foreseeable future.
In summary, as a members’ organisation, with no expensive borrowing, we are in good financial shape for the future.
AUDITOR REVIEW
As part of a wider review of Club Governance we have looked at the provision of external audit services.
Dixon Wilson have been the auditors for the Club for many years and have provided an excellent service. However, it is best practice to periodically conduct a market test to ensure our auditors provide value for money and that the service continues to meet the needs of the Club.
An auditor review process was completed earlier in 2025 and the successful appointee was Crowe, the ninth-largest auditing firm in the UK. They are particularly strong in the not for profit sector and we look forward to working with them. The Treasurer took the opportunity to thank Dixon Wilson for their service, noting that their first set of accounts for us were for the year ended December 1959 and our turnover was the princely sum of £6,704!
CONCLUSION
Alison concluded the financial report by thanking her colleagues on the Finance and Management Committee for their support, as well as fellow members of the Executive Committee and Club staff, before taking questions.
Elections/ Re-elections
n President – The Earl of Leicester
n Chair – David Turner
n Vice-Chair – John Lefley
n Treasurer – Alison Woodhams
n Executive Committee – Sue Southwell, Phillip Aldridge, Vince Mott
Thank you to Hamish Stuart
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Chair presented a gift on behalf of the Committee to friend and colleague, Hamish Stuart, who was standing down from the Committee having been first co-opted in April 2018.
The Chair thanked Hamish for his contributions and continued support over the years, and for offering the Scottish perspective on many of the matters that had been discussed.
The Chair wished Hamish and his wife Joyce the best for the future and thanked them for the continuing support given to the Highland Centre and Scottish Division. Hamish thanked all of his colleagues for their help and support while fulfilling the role, adding that he had thoroughly enjoyed his time with the Committee.
More details about the AGM, including a list of questions and answers from the meeting, can be found at camc.com/agm
On the road to Kinlochewe
Photo by member Shirley Calder
Richmond Hargill House
Photo by member Vicky McGillivray
Pyrénées Natura campsite
Photo by member Roland Talbot
Robert Morgan, Club member
Visit camc.com/caravancover or call 01342 649 894 to fnd out more or to get a quote. With our unique Caravan Cover, our members come back to us year after year. Over 90% of all cover holders renewed with us. Plus, we scored 9/10 for claims handling experience.
Director General’s Report
CANCELLATIONS AND DEPOSITS
Nick began by discussing the way the Club monitored booking levels and cancellation rates following the change of deposit to £5 in July 2024. Bookings were up by 8% overall, while cancellation rates were similar in the year immediately before and after the change, with wintry or stormy weather resulting in the most obvious changes to the cancellation rate.
For the foreseeable future we have a settled position with market-leading booking terms for members. The Director General explained that the aim is to keep the deposit as low as possible.
VISITOR LEVIES
Nick discussed visitor levies, also known as ‘tourist taxes’. Despite many hours of discussion and participation in workshops and consultations we have been unable to prevent the imposition of the Visitor Levy in Scotland or Wales.
The first local authority to launch a scheme is Edinburgh. Stays booked from 1 October 2025 for arrivals from 24 June 2026 are now affected. A levy of 5% of the cost of the stay is added to all bills in the Edinburgh Council area, including at Edinburgh Club Campsite. In a small concession, the charge only applies for the first five nights of a stay. The levy will also need to be collected for any CLs or rallies in the area and we will be issuing guidance for these in the new year.
Nick explained that other Scottish local authorities will likely follow suit, and that we are in the process of consulting with several.
incidents, the Club’s Membership Committee can consider further sanctions, and can recommend exclusion to the Executive Committee if appropriate. Nick shared figures for 2024 and stressed that they are relatively low given that we have over two million site stays every year.
ELECTRICITY
The new Club Electric App will enable members and guests to monitor and pay for electricity use; tests have taken place at Steamer Quay and with some members and site teams. We hope it will be an easier and convenient way to pay for electricity on site and a facility will be in place for those who do not have a phone or prefer to pay at a kiosk. We will monitor how this service is received before considering any further roll out.
OUR PEOPLE
For his final topic, Nick set out the ways that the Club has invested in its staff, culture and future leaders, and said he was proud of the progress that has been made.
Leadership and Management qualification. Following the results of our 2023 staff survey, we launched our new WOWs (Ways of Working) in March 2024. These are eight internal values, created by staff, that define our culture and behaviour, and they have been embedded into all areas of Club employment.
CONCLUSION
Nick has worked at the Club for 20 years (15 as Director General) and announced that he will be stepping down when a new Chief Executive is appointed.
He also set out the position in Wales, where legislation has been passed to enable local authorities to charge a fixed fee of 75p per adult per night for campsites and hostels and £1.30 per adult for other accommodation. The Club had some success in gaining agreement to exclude children from the charge and, during consultation with local authorities, we will be doing all we can to gain exceptions for small businesses like CLs and for voluntary and temporary activities such as Club rallies.
MEMBER BEHAVIOUR
The Director General reflected on the difficult issue of occasional poor member behaviour, explaining how the Club’s Bye-Laws allow for members to be suspended for a limited time period. For serious
The Club has built on the success of a blended learning approach for all new Site Assistants and newly promoted Site Managers. A total of 101 new starters were inducted during comprehensive three-day programmes at two new venues, Cranage Hall and East Horsley. The feedback has been positive, and it’s clear that this foundational training is giving our staff the best possible start, ensuring consistency across our site network. We are seeing improvements in service quality scores for members and our staff turnover remains stable.
Our commitment to fairness and equality is reflected in our 2024 gender pay results. Our median pay gap is just 0.7% in favour of females, a direct result of the balanced gender distribution across the entire Club.
Our Apprenticeship Programme has been a success. All Contact Centre apprentice recruits achieved a distinction in their customer service course, demonstrating their dedication and talent, and the programme has been expanded to other departments.
We launched a new management development programme, which is designed to support everyone from aspiring to senior managers. Over 30 members of staff graduated with a distinction and an Institute of
He discussed the reasons why the Club is a special organisation, with members, volunteers and staff working together to achieve long-term success and sustainability, and said that it has been a great privilege to lead the Club staff for so many years. With the organisation in good financial shape, recording some of the highest-ever levels of member satisfaction and with very strong levels of member recruitment and retention, now was the right time to pass the daily challenge to someone new.
Nick also expressed his appreciation for all the friendship, support and constructive challenges received across the past two decades. He concluded by paying thanks to his wife Caroline for all her support during his time at the Club.
a y Mar arets ar u a psite
Nick Lomas, Director General of the Caravan and Motorhome Club, addressed five main topics in his report.
Electric metering at Steamer Quay
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Seacroft
Club Campsite
Touring pitches: 108 (tent camping also available)
Max outfit length: 8.5m
Member view
“Friendly staff, well laid out site, well maintained and clean and tidy. The added bonuses of a pool and a very nice bar, perfect for a lunch time drink in the sun, make Seacroft a perfect destination.” (October 2025)
Outdoor fun
Norfolk’s youngest heritage railway site, Whitwell and Reepham Railway Station, reopened in 2009 after 50 years of closure. Entry to the site is free but Club members can claim a two-for-one offer on weekend train rides. Terms and conditions apply; please see camc.com/ greatsavingsguide and whitwellstation.com for more info.
Have you been to...
...Seacroft Club Campsite? On the north Norfolk
Seacroft is a superb base if you want to see the very best of the north Norfolk coast. With the beaches accessible at Cromer and East Runton (both easy walks away, and dog-friendly aside from a 100m exclusion zone either side of Cromer’s pier), as well as buses running from just outside the site entrance to the likes of Wells-next-the-Sea, Sheringham, Holt and Norwich, many visitors are able to enjoy a welcome break from driving while they stay.
The facilities are also a major draw, explains Site Manager Christine: “We have the heated swimming pool [open mid-May to mid-September] and The Wanderer bar and restaurant,” she says. “We have lots of returning customers –grandparents with their grandchildren, mums and dads and extended friends and families who come to stay and use the complex year after year.
“Some have been coming even before the site was taken over by the Club... That shows how popular Seacroft is. However, some don’t even realise that we have the complex, so it’s a nice surprise to find out on arrival that we do. Make sure you bring your swimming costume just in case!”
There’s plenty going on here all year round. “At Christmas and new year the site is generally full, with entertainment on Christmas Eve and New Year’s with a party [ticket only]... with a wonderful spread put on
by the chef. On most Thursday and Saturday evenings during the summer season there is live entertainment, mostly singers. Also, the staff put on events for the children and bingo nights too for the adults.”
Cromer’s pier has a theatre at the end with shows on most evenings during the summer season. Christine also mentions crazy golf, amusement arcades and the putting green, which go down well with families. One event not to be missed is August’s five-day Cromer Carnival, featuring displays, a funfair, a carnival queen ceremony and a spectacular firework display. Some guests return every year for the festivities.
Other suggestions for things to do include walking a stretch of the Norfolk Coast Path (heading east to Overstrand takes you past Cromer Lighthouse), visiting the National Trust’s Felbrigg Hall or Blickling Hall, exploring the Wildlife Trust reserve at Cley, or just simply relaxing and sampling a few local delicacies.
“The ‘No 1 Cromer’ fish and chip shop is an award-winning venue,” says Christine, who also recommends Mary Jane’s Fish Bar, Will’s Plaice and The Red Lion. “Cromer is famous for crabs, so no visit is complete until you’ve had a crab sandwich or visited Rocky Bottoms, the crab and lobster restaurant in West Runton,” she adds.
Seacroft: so good you’ll pinch yourself!
Cromer sunset
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Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera
LAST RAYS
“Branscombe Beach at sunset in October 2025. A short three-day break nearby in Seaton.” [Nearest Club campsite: Putts Corner]
Chris Kerrey
Dumfries & Galloway
BAY WATCH
A bird’s-eye view of Garlieston Club Campsite and Garlieston Bay.
Errol Crowe
FLUTTERING BY
“Taken in the Chirk Castle gardens – a comma butterfly enjoying late September sun.” [Nearest Club campsite: Lady Margaret’s Park] Andrew Walker
Cambridgeshire
PREY ON THE WAY
“A female peregrine scans the sky whilst waiting for her partner to return with its prey. The photo was taken at a nature reserve close to Cambridge Cherry Hinton Club Campsite.”
Barry Place
Wrexham
Devon
NATURAL ARCH
“This was taken at Troller’s Gill near Appletreewick in the Yorkshire Dales.” [Nearest Club campsites: Bolton Abbey Estate; Wharfedale]
Christine Jackson
Hampshire
BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL
Autumn colours at Bolderwood in the New Forest. [Nearest Club campsites: Black Knowl; New Forest Centenary]
Andy Pattenden
STROLLING THE SAND
“Freshwater East, amazing dog-friendly beach a few minutes’ walk from Freshwater East Club Campsite.”
Martha Hopkinson
Highland
COE WITH THE FLOW
“Glen Coe is a campervanning dream.” [Nearest Club campsites: Bunree; North Ledaig AS]
Kate Barton
Upload your images at camc.com/inspiringadventures or tag us on Facebook, Instagram or X (Twitter) using #inspiringadventures
North Yorkshire
Pembrokeshire
Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring
Still in the fold
Jon Richardson kindly sent in a couple of pictures of interesting vehicles he spotted on a tour of France, but we were taken by this one of an Esterel Supermatic folding caravan in particular. A model from the mid-1980s, this one appears to be in fine fettle.
TENT CAMPER!
When is a campervan not a campervan? Why, when it’s a tent, of course! Gordon Hannah spotted this cleverly disguised canvas abode in Ullapool a few years ago.
ONE FOR THE ROADS
ON YOUR MARKS...
Looks like a Formula 1 car visited Broadway Club Campsite recently... hope it didn t go over the 5mph speed limit. In fact, this imprint was not made by Lewis Hamilton, but by two members of the site staff, Matt and Nigel, who had parked their tractor and trailer at a service point! Thanks to Sharon Ashley for the pic.
Winnebago Lane? Airstream Lane? This picture was sent in by Nigel and Sharon Wallace, who enjoyed a road trip in the United States earlier this year. It was taken at a site called Swinging Bridge near Jackson, Mississippi, which is approximately half way between New Orleans and Memphis. Nigel and Sharon particularly liked the old-style wagon in the background, which they think was being used as glamping accommodation.
Chic and cheerful
The owners of this pretty Baronette GT had travelled all the way from France for a tour of Scotland. What a beauty, and seemingly in great condition. Helen-mairi Holliday was able to admire it from the neighbouring pitch at a site in Callander. Thanks for sharing it with us, Helen-mairi!
If you see something fun or unusual on a Club campsite, CL or while you’re out and about, please send a picture to magazine@camc.com or tag @candmclub on Instagram and we’ll print the best.
Discover glamping at 10 UK Club campsites
Save 20%* on glamping all year round
Share your love of the great outdoors and enjoy a 20% saving on glamping getaways for you, your friends and family. Discover 10 stunning UK Club campsites including our new glamping villages at The Sandringham Estate in Norfolk and Lady Margaret’s Park in Chirk, North Wales.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to create unforgettable memories and explore the great outdoors together for less! Just add your membership number at checkout.
Glamp at these Club campsites:
Abbey Wood • Brighton • Coniston Park Coppice • Daleacres • Lady Margaret’s Park • Cayton Village • Moreton-in-Marsh • Southland • The Sandringham Estate • Troutbeck Head
Book a glamping break for you, your family or friends
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