Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine – January 2025

NEW YEAR ESCAPES

Where will your adventures take you in 2025? See inside for inspiration...

TAKE A PEAK! Enjoy a five-site getaway in magical Derbyshire

COLD-WEATHER KIT Stay warm on tour with our winter gear selection

CARAVAN DESIGN All the winners from the Club’s annual awards

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Editorial

Editors Gary Martin, John Thynne

Deputy Editor Stuart Egan

Assistant Editors Clare Disano, Stephen Hollis

Design Michaela Millar

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Caravan and Motorhome Club

Magazine, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1UA

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WELCOME

John Thynne says:

Make sure you read our coverage of the Club’s Caravan Design Awards 2025, which starts on page 84 of this issue. Fifty caravans were put through their paces by our experienced team of judges, with final analysis and presentations being made at Birminghams NEC last October. As usual, there were some stand-out performances – we hope our 12-page section will help you make an informed choice when choosing a new caravan. For more information see camc.com/ caravandesign.

“ Our hobby is the key to enjoying spectacular aspects of nature ”

Advertising enquiries advertising@camc.com

Commercial Manager

Ian Lea 07850 916434 ian.lea@camc.com

Commercial Executive

Adam Johnson 07784 044103 adam.johnson@camc.com

Commercial Executive

Adam Westbrook 07977 162066 adam.westbrook@camc.com

Production Controller

Tara Erroll

tara.erroll@camc.com

Classifieds/For Sale 07977 162066

President: Thomas Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester

Chairman: David Turner

Director General: Nick Lomas

Elsewhere in the magazine, nature expert David Chapman has written a fascinating article about the humble crow family – which includes magpies, jays, jackdaws and choughs. In folklore they are often associated with bad luck but crows are in fact highly intelligent, adaptable and sociable creatures. Davids feature, which looks at the various species, their behaviour and place in human history is, as usual, accompanied by his spectacular photography (pages 96-98).

More extraordinary pictures can be found on pages 50-52. Rebecca Cole (who gave us a master class in weather photography back in the April 2024 issue) presents a wonderful set of images featuring ice formations. Heard of ‘diamond dust’, ‘snow eggs’ or ‘hair ice’? Prepare to be amazed. And, as always, we have enjoyed sifting through pictures taken by members – a tranquil lake, rocky precipice and awesome Northern Lights display are just some of the highlights in our regular Your Photos feature (pages 10-11). All of which just goes to show how caravanning and motorhoming is the key to enjoying the more spectacular aspects of nature and the great outdoors – please keep sending your images to 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

TOURING

Philip

Ray

Nick Lomas introduces the latest addition to the UK network –Lickpenny Matlock Club Campsite JANUARY 2025

Lee

A

TESTS

68 CAR Polestar

72 CARAVAN

Second-hand special

75 MOTORHOME

McLouis Fusion 330

MEMBER BENEFITS

22 GREAT SAVINGS GUIDE

Days out for less

62 MEMBER OFFERS

Save with your Club

SPECIALS

49 CERTIFICATED LOCATIONS

We chat to Club CL Manager

Jessica Evans

50 FROZEN IN TIME

Spectacular ice photography by Rebecca Cole

78 AGM REPORT

Highlights from October’s meeting in Chester

84 CARAVAN DESIGN AWARDS

All the winners from the Club’s prestigious competition

REGULARS

9 DIRECTOR GENERAL’S VIEW

10 YOUR PHOTOS

Fantastic pictures from your touring breaks

12 CLUB MATTERS

Get away for less in 2025

24 LETTERS

We open the monthly mailbag

82 PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Spotlight on winter kit

96 COUNTRY MATTERS

David Chapman takes a look at the remarkable crow family

100 PRACTICAL

Sammy Faircloth focuses on touring accessories

102 CROSSWORD

A chance to win Club vouchers

103 PUZZLES

Can you solve our brainteasers?

104 ASK YOUR CLUB

Technical questions answered

105 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

To advertise, call 07977 162066

114 TAIL LIGHTS

A light-hearted look at the world of touring

116 CYCLE ROUTE

Jonathan Manning explores the Wales-England borderlands on a ride from Pandy Club Campsite

118 WALKS FOR ALL

Mark Sutcliffe ventures into

Robin Hood country from Clumber Park Club Campsite

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376,223

Circulation: Jan-Dec 2023

OPINION

Nick Lomas says:

We’re always on the lookout for potential new campsites so members can enjoy stays at a broader range of locations across the country.

Most recently the Club purchased Lickpenny Caravan Park in Derbyshire. Now known as Lickpenny Matlock Club Campsite, this beautiful spot is a fantastic addition to the UK network. It offers spacious pitches and attractive facilities, and serves as a perfect base for tourers wishing to explore the stunning Derbyshire Dales, on the fringes of the popular Peak District National Park.

It is set above the village of Tansley, with its two thriving pubs, and within easy reach of

“ We know that it will be hugely popular with our members and guests ”

the towns of Matlock and Bakewell. There is a bus stop a few hundred yards away. The thoughtfully laid-out, 16-acre park incorporates existing mature trees and beautiful rhododendrons which provide attractive markers for more than 120 generous, hardstanding pitches. All pitches are suitable for all leisure vehicles and each is supplied with 16A electricity; some are serviced and boast their own water, drainage and electricity. Plus there are a couple of electric vehicle charging points.

The campsite has showers and toilets in two, centrally-heated blocks, together with inclusive and accessible facilities. Day-to-day amenities include a vegetable prep and washing up area, as well as laundry rooms. Children can enjoy the centrally-located play area, while the enchanting woodland walk area is ideal for dogs.

We’re delighted to have Lickpenny Matlock Club Campsite on our network and we know it will be hugely popular with our members and guests. I’m pleased that the site is now available to book on our website, Club App,

and by phone through our friendly contact centre teams. The site is currently open (it’s one of 51 Club and Affiliated sites welcoming members all year round) so you can make a booking and visit as soon as you like. Existing bookings have also been transferred to the Club systems. Interestingly, this single new campsite will add some 40,000 nights of capacity to our network.

Our site team has been working hard to transition to Club ways of working for health and safety, pitch management, site management, and guest requests. Our usual member-friendly booking rules and low £5 deposits apply.

Nearby, a garden centre cafe, weekly Sunday market and giant car boot sale are an easy stroll from the site. In the local area, scenic Matlock and Matlock Bath, the Heights of Abraham cable car, historic Derwent Valley Mills, Crich Tramway Village, the Great British Car Journey museum, Matlock Farm Park, and the Peak District National Park – with its hills, dales and caves, walking, cycling and visitor attractions – mean there is something for everyone. Not far away, the likes of Buxton, Castleton and Chatsworth Park Club Campsites can be busy so it’s great to be able to offer another choice in the area. I hope you enjoy the latest addition to your site network.

YOUR PHOTOS

Your most memorable touring moments caught on camera

Suffolk

BARN STORMER

“Loved watching this beautiful barn owl every evening whilst enjoying a glass or two of wine during our recent visit to Suffolk.”

Paul Lewis

STILL WATER

“Derwentwater from Borrowdale Club Site.”

Garry Ball

Wrexham

’ DUCTS TALE

A misty scene unfolds at Chirk Viaduct and Aqueduct.

[Nearest Club campsite: Lady Margaret’s Park.]

Andrew King

Norway

HIGH AND MIGHTY

“The sky’s the limit, stayed at Preikestolen campsite near Stavanger in Norway. After a two-hour hike from the car park and 600m in altitude climb we reached Pulpit Rock with stunning views of Lysefjord.”

Mark Furneaux

MOON-STRUCK

“Taken on a recent visit to the historic village of Blackness, West Lothian. A view along the River Forth to the three Forth Bridges.” [Nearest Club campsite: Edinburgh.]

David McNie

Northern Lights at Yellowcraig Club Campsite.

Andrew Poole

FALLEN FOR IT

“Penllergare Waterfall [near Swansea]... Junction 47 M4 (short walk into wood, free parking and cafe available).

Brings you to this wonderful and beautiful waterfall, best after a heavy rain fall but always stunning!” [Nearest Club campsite: Gowerton.]

John Rhodes

CLUMBER SLUMBER

“This was taken as the sun was going down, we were staying at the Clumber Park site.”

Darren Mills

Upload your images at camc.com/inspiringadventures or tag us on Facebook, Instagram or X (Twitter) using #inspiringadventures

GET AWAY FOR LESS IN 2025

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 and 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 Non-electric Economy pitches). Hot showers are FREE on appropriate campsites with shower facilities. FREE Wi-Fi service available at 146 UK Club campsites.

Ready to plan your best touring year ever? The good news is we have a series of special savings for 2025 designed to make your money go even further! Whether you travel on your own, as a couple or in a family group we have the perfect pitch for you on one of our 150 campsites across the UK. We only have a limited number of pitches available under certain promotions (see individual offers), so make sure you book early to secure the best price for your holiday. Read on for inspiration and to find out how and where you could save – or check out camc.com/offers for more information.

10% Off Spring Getaways

Just 60,000 pitch nights available Kick off the season with the fantastic 10% saving available at 40 Club campsites across the network.

Will you opt for a stay at our Brecon Beacons Club Campsite on the edge of the magnificent Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park in south Wales? Boasting dramatic views and great facilities, it’s the perfect base for walkers and mountain bikers. Or what about a getaway at Coniston Park Coppice Club Campsite, set among 63 acres of National Trust woodland in the dramatic Lake District? You could take a ride on

the historic Steam Yacht Gondola (launches from Coniston Pier a couple of miles away – check spring operating dates in advance) or try your hand at a multitude of watersports.

To take advantage of the 10% Off Spring Getaways offer a minimum stay of three or four nights applies depending on the selected campsite. All you need to do is book by 27 May 2025 for stays between 14 March and 20 June 2025 (excludes 18-21 April 2025). Bookings must be made 21 days in advance of your stay. Visit camc.com/spring for full terms and conditions and to see the complete list of campsites included in this offer.

£25 Off Summer Getaways

Just 60,000 pitch nights available

As the weather warms up, take advantage of our £25 Off Summer Getaways offer, available at 40 UK Club campsites. These include Littlehampton Club Campsite in West Sussex, which is just a couple of miles away from a huge sandy beach as well as the Harbour Park amusement complex. Beach lovers will also be in their element at our Looe site in Cornwall. The lovely stretch of sand at East Looe is just two miles away, while on-site attractions include a swimming pool, tennis court and crazy golf course. Or what about White House Beach Club Campsite in Suffolk? As the name suggests, some of the pitches here overlook the sea, while the likes of The Broads National Park and Framlingham Castle make for great days out.

To take advantage of the £25 Off Summer Getaways offer a minimum stay of five or seven nights applies depending on the selected campsite. Book by 26 August 2025 for stays between 1 July and 21 September 2025. Bookings must be made 21 days in advance of your stay. Visit camc.com/summer for full terms and conditions and to see the complete list of campsites included in this offer.

Kids stay for £1

All year round

at

UK Club campsites!

Great news for families – children aged between five and 17 stay for just £1 per night at all of our UK Club campsites all year round and under-fives stay free! A large selection of our sites have great facilities for kids such as playgrounds and play areas, as well as easy access to top family attractions. Treamble Valley in Cornwall, for example, is close to the magnificent beaches, surf schools and seaside attractions of Newquay as well as Lappa Valley’s steam railway and activity park. Another favourite with youngsters is New Forest Centenary Club Campsite – perfect for cycling and walking adventures, and close to the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu (check out camc.com/greatsavingsguide for a special member saving). Plan your holiday at camc.com/kidsfor1.

£10% Off Autumn Getaways

Just 20,000 pitch nights available

You can save 10% on the price of your holiday at 40 Club campsite locations next autumn. You could enjoy spectacular shows of colour and crisp morning walks during a stay at Stonehaven Queen Elizabeth Park on Scotland’s east coast. Or maybe you’ll head for Chester Fairoaks Club Campsite – bordered by oak trees, this open, level campsite is within easy reach of Chester and its famous ‘Rows’ as well as a designer outlet shopping village and Chester Zoo (pictured left).

Tour for Less

From just £22 per night all year round for two adults and a pitch

You pay a fixed price per night all season for two adults and a pitch at selected campsites during 2025. Its just £22 per night at Aberbran, Altnaharra, Bourton-on-the-Water, Clachan, Ilminster, Plymouth Sound and Slinfold Club campsites. Meanwhile, the Englethwaite Hall, St Agnes Beacon (pictured below) and Stover sites will cost you just £24 per night all season, and you’ll only pay £26 per night for the fantastic Cae Mawr and Thetford Forest Club campsites. Why not secure your pitch today? See camc.com/ tourforless for more information.

To take advantage of the 10% Off Autumn Getaways offer a minimum stay of three or four nights applies depending on the selected campsite. Book by 27 November 2025 for stays between 1 October and 21 December 2025. Bookings must be made 21 days in advance of your stay. Visit camc.com/autumn for full terms and conditions and to see the complete list of campsites included in this offer.

Price Drop

On over 100,000 pitches, making them up to 10% cheaper than 2024! We have reduced the price of 100,000 pitch nights on selected dates at six Club campsites in 2025! Why not book a stay at our fabulous White Water Park site, situated right next door to the Tees Barrage International White Water Centre in Stockton-on-Tees? Or perhaps you’ll head for Burrs Country Park Club Campsite (pictured above), where you can watch steam trains pass by on the East Lancashire Railway. See camc.com/pricedrop for more details and the full list of Price Drop campsites.

The latest stories from the touring world

FOUR DAYS OF FUN AT CLUBFEST

Have you booked your pitch at ClubFest 2025 yet? You don’t want to miss out on the Club’s allinclusive, four-day festival, which takes place from 23-27 May 2025 at Bolesworth Castle in Cheshire (pictured). As well as a long bank holiday weekend featuring great food, drink, company, fun and activities, you’ll be able to enjoy fantastic live, on-stage entertainment from Lightning Seeds and Boyzlife as well as tributes to the likes of Whitney Houston, Fleetwood Mac, Taylor Swift, Oasis, Johnny Cash, Take That and Coldplay. During the festival you’ll be able to take part in a huge number of activities – all included in the price of your ticket. These will be spread across a number of different zones.

• Aqua Club: Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned water sports enthusiast, head to Bolesworth’s lake to enjoy stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or kayaking – you could even try SUP yoga!

• Family Club: Family-friendly activities will include the popular ClubFest quiz, bingo, line dancing, silent discos and a family barn dance.

• Have a Go Club: Test your skills at the likes of tree climbing, axe throwing, slacklining, archery, laser tag and Segways – never a dull moment here!

• K9 Club: Well-behaved dogs are welcome at ClubFest –perhaps your pooch will take part in a fun dog show or try out the agility courses.

• MAYDAY Kids Club: Featuring everything from face painting and balloon modelling to interactive science and art sessions, kids can let their imaginations run wild in this zone. They’ll also love the magic shows, climbing wall and bouncy castle.

• Nature Club: Try your hand at building a shelter, fire lighting, carving, willow weaving and more. These hands-on experiences offer the perfect

blend of fun and learning in a stunning outdoor setting.

• Sports Club: A little friendly competition never hurts! Take part in darts, football, volleyball, pétanque and even towing competitions. All skill levels welcome!

• Wellness Club: Relax with yoga, meditation, candlelit stretching, sound baths, Tai Chi and Pilates – and perhaps also take part in our soothing singing and painting workshops.

Tickets

All-inclusive ClubFest 2025 tickets are available now, with prices starting from £380* for the whole weekend. Day tickets can also be purchased. The festival is free for children aged 17 and under. See camc.com/clubfest to find out more and to book.

*Price quoted is for an Eco Pitch for two adults for the whole weekend (including all entertainment). Other pitch types are available.

Temporary campsite at the Great British Beer Festival

The Club will be supporting the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) with a temporary campsite at the Great British Beer Festival, taking place at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC) from 5-9 August 2025. The festival is the biggest of its kind in the UK and features a wide range of beers, ciders and perries, as well as live

music, street food and pub games. The temporary campsite will be open from 4-9 August and the price for a pitch plus two adults is

to

£54 per night – additional adults can be added for just £10 per person per night. In addition, members will also save up to £6 per day with discounted entry to the festival.

The Club’s temporary campsite is at the NEC and close to the event, so you can easily enjoy the atmosphere of the festival. There will be 130 hardstanding pitches with EHU,

as well as toilet facilities and access to water and waste points. Please note that we will be unable to accommodate awnings, tents (except roof tents) or trailer tents. You will also need to use your on-board facilities if you require a shower.

For more information, bookings and terms and conditions please visit camc.com/gbbfpopup

Join an escorted UK Tour

Would you like to explore the UK on one of our new escorted tours? You’ll be able to leave the hassle of organising everything to us – simply make your booking, turn up and enjoy your holiday. Whether you’re after a short break or an extended experience, our range of tours caters for a wide variety of interests, with prices starting from just £599 (price quoted is for two adults on our three-night Chelsea Flower Show UK Tour, departing 3 September 2025).

Our tours take in the likes of enchanting Welsh landscapes (departs 6 May 2025), the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (departs

4 and 18 August 2025) and the spectacular Kynren historical show (departs 30 August 2025).

Each itinerary makes the most of local expertise and includes a careful balance of inspirational excursions and free leisure time, so you can enjoy the best of the region. You’ll also be with other Club members as you enjoy our themed tour experiences together! To see a full list of available tours with detailed information please visit camc.com/uktours.

MASTER TOWING AND MANOEUVRING

Our 2025 training courses are now ready for you to book, costing from just £188 for a caravan instruction course and £218 for motorhome training. Whether you are looking to gain confidence when towing and pitching a caravan or manoeuvring your

motorhome, our expert trainers will be able to help. The training courses offer a mix of theoretical and practical elements and we have 16 different venues across the UK to from which to choose.

As an added bonus, after completing the course you will be

SEE YOU AT THE FEBRUARY

NEC SHOW

If you’re looking to buy or upgrade your outfit, or if you’re just keen to see the latest developments from manufacturers, February’s Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham is not to be missed. The show – which takes place from 18-23 February – will span an impressive five halls and the Club will once again be there. So if you’d like to say hello, listen to inspirational speakers or if you have a Club-related query, please visit our dedicated stand (number 2000).

Elddis, Buccaneer and Xplore will return after a year’s hiatus, rejoining the likes of Adria, Auto-Sleepers, Auto-Trail, Bailey, Coachman, Swift and many more manufacturers and converters. Campervans on display

will come from the likes of Bilbo’s, Murvi and Wildax, while trailer tents, roofboxes, tents and camping accessories will be available to browse. There will also be the opportunity to try paddleboarding and kayaking on a large indoor watersports pool, for free.

eligible to receive a 5% discount when you take out or renew the Club’s Caravan Cover, motorhome insurance, campervan insurance and/or car insurance. Visit camc.com/ training for more information and to book a course.

Club Day is Tuesday 18 February and we look forward to welcoming Matt Allwright, Annabel Croft and Kwoklyn Wan to the Club’s stand. The cost of entry for one adult on Club Day is just £10 when you book your ticket online in advance using the code ‘CMC3’ at ccmshow.co.uk. You can also use the same code for the discounted entry price of £11 on other days if you cannot attend on Club Day.

Please note that a £1.25 transaction fee applies to all online bookings. Car parking is included and children under 16 are free when accompanying a paying adult (though note that each child still requires a ticket for entry). For more details as well as terms and conditions please see the advert on pages 4 and 5 of this issue. See you there!

NEWS IN BRIEF

THANK YOU CHATS

The site staff team at Chatsworth Park Club Campsite are leaving after five years on site, having helped raise an incredible total of £9,100 for charity during this period. Examples of the activities undertaken by members of the team include selling leaflets for walks, running a book exchange, participating in the 10km Chatsworth run and setting-up a ‘donate, don’t dump’ initiative. This has resulted in considerable donations to Designability, Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance and Cancer Research – the team would like to thank Club members for their generosity and support.

DAFFODIL WEEKEND

Hertfordshire Centre will be running an event to coincide with Thriplow Daffodil Weekend in Cambridgeshire. Herts’ event runs from 21-23 March 2025 in nearby Fowlmere, while the Daffodil Weekend itself takes place on 22-23 March. If you would like to attend, booking forms are available at hertfordshirecentre. co.uk or from Sandie Evans (sandiejevans@gmail.com).

NOTTS AT OSBERTON

Nottinghamshire Centre held a successful event at the Osberton International Horse Trials on the glorious Osberton Estate near Worksop in October (pictured above). Centre members will be attending again in October 2025 – for information and bookings please visit nottscentre.com

SOUTH AFRICA TOUR

Please note that the duration of the Club’s Roads of the Rainbow Nation escorted motorhome tour, departing on 27 August 2025, is 38 days, and not 28 days, as stated on page 71 of the November 2024 issue. For more information about the tour please see camc.com/worldwide.

EUROPEAN ADVENTURES

The Club is running 21 different escorted European tours in 2025 that will take in a variety of stunning destinations across France, Italy, Ireland, Spain, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia and The Netherlands.

Tours will depart throughout the year and will visit wine regions, historic towns and cities, scenic rivers and lakes, nature-rich national parks and more. As well as repeats of tours that continue to prove popular with members, there are two new tours for 2025: Rhine in Flames and Balkan Adventure.

Germany is the setting for Rhine in Flames, an eight-night caravan or motorhome tour during which you can enjoy river cruises, medieval towns and delicious wine, culminating in a magnificent firework display on the iconic river. The price is £1,599 for two people. Balkan Adventure, meanwhile, is a 24-night caravan or motorhome expedition taking in incredible sights across Bosnia, Croatia and Montenegro, and includes must-see destinations such as Mostar, Sarajevo and Dubrovnik, time spent in the captivating landscape of the

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Bridlington

Reviews and tips for an open-all-year campsite on the Yorkshire coast

Durmitor National Park, and much more. The price is £3,999 for an outfit and two adults. (Single and extra person pricing is also available for all tours.)

The itineraries for all of our tours are carefully put together with our members in mind to include a balance of organised excursions and free time, all with friendly Caravan and Motorhome Club hosts close at hand throughout the duration of your holiday.

For more information please see camc.com/europeantours or book today by calling us on 01342 488711.

“The Martonian pub is around a ten-minute walk from the site and we ate there twice, the Sunday carvery being particularly good, high praise from me because it’s not my favourite kind of meal.”

(November 2024)

NEWS IN BRIEF

ROWAN PARK STARS

The team at Rowan Park Club Campsite in Bognor Regis raised a fantastic £358 across two months for Alikazam, a local organisation that supports a parent and toddler group and others in need. The group is funded by donations of unwanted items, which are sold on, so please speak to site staff if you would like to help.

7,000 FOR CHESHIRE

Cheshire Centre is planning a spectacular event at Astle Park (near Chelford, Knutsford and Macclesfield) from 2-5 May 2025 – it will be the centre’s 7,000th rally! Attractions across the weekend include an owl display, tea dance, live music performances, an orienteering challenge and a party in the park. All are welcome – if you would like to attend please see cheshirecentre.co.uk to book or for more information.

“It’s a great base for trips around the east coast and there are plenty of places within walking distance. Our German neighbours said it’s the best one they’ve stayed on since being in the UK...”

(August 2024)

“Great walks along cliff paths to Sewerby Hall, Bridlington, Danes Dyke and Flamborough Head. Good bus service to Flamborough and Bridlington.” (June 2024)

1940s WEEKEND

Club members dressed up as Incleboro Fields Club Campsite in Norfolk held its annual 1940s weekend in September, which coincided with the retro-themed 1940s festival held in nearby Sheringham. Staff joined the fun by dressing up and decorating the site, and also raised £501 for Help for Heroes by working with three local businesses and the Wanderer Bar & Kitchen at Seacroft Club Campsite.

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Quality and Assurances So, no matter what caravan you own or whatever your budget, Powr has the No1 mover that’s perfect for you. second best?

NEW LOOK FOR CLUB TOGETHER

Club Together, our community forum, has been revamped. With a more user-friendly interface and faster navigation, our platform is designed for those who share a passion for the touring lifestyle – it s simpler than ever to share experiences, tips, and stories. Member feedback has been

invaluable in shaping the improvements, and we are grateful for your continued support.

Join the conversation today by visiting camc.com/ clubtogether. You can see a sample of what fellow Club Together users are talking about by turning to the Letters pages (24-26).

WINS FOR THE CONTACT CENTRE

The Club’s Contact Centre was recognised in a number of different categories at the UK Contact Centre Forum (UKCCF) Awards. These awards are designed to celebrate contact centre excellence and award individuals, teams and companies for their best practices.

A record 1,368 nominations were received and subsequently reviewed by a panel of expert judges. The winners were announced at a ceremony in November, with the Club winning Gold in both Best Newcomer of the Year and Outsourcing Partnership of the Year, Silver in both Contact

Centre Workplace of the Year and Support Team of the Year, and Bronze in both Complaints Team of the Year and Best Health & Wellbeing Programme of the Year. The Club was also highly commended for its Contact Centre of the Year entry and was shortlisted for Manager of the Year.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

News from the Club’s Collection

The Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection, which is hosted at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, Hampshire, is looking forward to celebrating a year of remarkable anniversaries in 2025. We’ll be marking many milestones with special showcases and engaging events that bring our rich heritage to life.

One of the most popular exhibits at the National Motor Museum is The Royal Caravan. Built in Ringwood by Rollalong, this miniature caravan was presented by the then-Caravan Club to Princess Anne and Prince Charles in 1955. To mark its 70th anniversary, the Club Collection will showcase an array of memorabilia and photographs highlighting its history and the longstanding connection between the Club and the Royal Family.

During the Spring Autojumble, Beaulieu, in collaboration with NotAnotherWhiteBox (a YouTube channel hosted by Cameron Burns),

will host a vintage Sprite rally to celebrate 75 years of the Sprite name. The event will feature the Sprite 400 donated to the museum in 2021, a perfectly preserved time capsule for visitors who would like to step back in time to the 1970s.

Later in May, the Collection will leave Beaulieu and head to a Cheltenham Owners Club rally in Tewkesbury, featuring a pop-up display dedicated to the 75th anniversary of that club.

New Long Stay Winter Sun site

The Club’s Long Stay Winter Sun (LSWS) hosted holidays allow you to swap the UK’s colder climate for warmer weather in Spain – and we have recently added a new site, Camping La Media Legua in Benidorm (Club ref: E62W), to our LSWS offering.

At the time of going to press a few remaining places are available at Camping La Media Legua and also at Vilanova Park near Barcelona (Club ref: E08W). Why not make new friends and enjoy some fun in the sun this winter, with friendly Club hosts on hand to help and coordinate events and social activities (you can participate as much or as little as you want)? See camc.com/ lsws for more information.

SHOW TIME

JANUARY

10-12 Belfast

Holiday World Show, ICC Belfast (Business Exhibitions NI, see holidayworldshowni.com)

16-19 Manchester Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show 2025, Manchester Central (Clarion Events, see caravan shows.com)

Lastly, to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, the In Focus gallery at the National Motor Museum will feature a major exhibition dedicated to the role played by caravans and the Caravan Club during the conflict. The exhibition, a collaboration between the Caravan and Motorhome Club

open in September and run until February 2026. Watch this space to find out more about these events. If you don’t want to miss out, visit nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/ collections/camc-collection or follow us on X (@camccollection), Instagram (@camcc_curator) and Facebook (facebook.com/ camcccurator).

Sara Riccabone

17-19 Warwickshire

January Motorhome & Campervan Sale, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth (Warners Shows, call 01778 391123 or see outandaboutlive.co.uk)

24-26 Devon

Motorhome & Campervan Show, Westpoint Exeter (Apple Tree Exhibitions, call 01805 462024 or see appletree-exhibitions.co.uk)

FEBRUARY

6-9 Glasgow

Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show, SEC, Glasgow (QD Events, see caravanshowscotland.com)

18-23 Birmingham Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham (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.

Changes to your mag and expected 2025 delivery dates

We know how much members love the Club magazine… in fact, 83% of members who responded to our most recent survey said that they either read every issue or read it most months.

However, due to considerable rising costs associated with postage, we have taken the difficult but necessary decision to reduce the frequency of issues from 11 this year to eight editions next year.

The positive news, though, is that we’ll be increasing the average number of pages per issue and, starting early in 2025, we’ll provide members with more regular weekly, exclusive articles on the touring lifestyle in the Digital Magazine.

How often will I receive my copy?

We have altered our schedule so that you will receive an issue of the Club magazine roughly every six weeks. While exact delivery dates will vary depending on postal services in your area, our production schedule is set up so that you should receive your magazine as follows:

February 2025 issue

Between 8-14 February

March-April 2025 issue

Between 22-28 March

May 2025 issue

Between 5-10 May

June-July 2025 issue

Between 14-20 June

August-September 2025 issue

Between 2-8 August

October 2025 issue

Between 27 September-3 October

November-December 2025 issue Between 15-21 November

January 2026 issue Between 20-26 December

How do I access the Digital Magazine?

The Digital Magazine is published in tandem with the print magazine but will now include additional weekly features. Extra content in the Digital Magazine includes walking and cycling routes from Club campsites, video reviews of cars, caravans and motorhomes, and interactive puzzles. If you haven’t 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 to the right.

IN YOUR JANUARY DIGITAL MAGAZINE

Look out for a cycle route from Pandy Club Campsite (with video) a walk from Clumber Park Club Campsite, a video to accompany our McLouis Fusion 330 motorhome test, lots of interactive puzzles and Tail Lights Extra! Download the Digital Magazine today from Google Play or the App Store.

NEWS IN BRIEF

FANTASTIC FIFTY

Congratulations to Malcolm and Christine Jarvis who marked an incredible 50 years of membership earlier this year. Malcolm is pictured here (right) at the Mid West Yorkshire Centre autumn AGM alongside Vice Chair Colin Anderson.

The Club Magazine in the palm of your hand!

The Digital Magazine includes all of your favourites plus extra articles and features:

1. Walking and cycling routes direct from Club Campsites – including maps and directions

2. Easily access seven years of magazines with back issues from January 2017*

3. A choice of formats for easy reading

4. Videos of vehicle reviews – watch expert guidance

5. Search the archive for specific articles or subjects

6. Access articles direct from the contents list

7. An integrated screen reader for the visually impaired

8. Interactive puzzles, including codeword, wordsearch, jigsaw and sudoku

9. 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.

SITES OPEN DURING WINTER

51 Club campsites are open all year – keep on touring with only a £5 deposit*!

are to the south and the Quantocks to the north, while you can be in Exmoor National Park in under 40 minutes. (Please note that there are no facilities at Cadeside.)

Bournemouth. Popular walks in these parts make the most of the stunning coastline – check out beauty spots such as Old Harry Rocks or Durdle Door.

If you like the sound of endless travel adventures, remember there is always somewhere to stay with the Club – in fact, over 50 Club and Affiliated campsites are open all year round.

You can book a stay for just a £5 deposit* – and enjoy heated washrooms, hot showers, and electric hook-ups at many locations,

New Club storage facility

The Club has acquired a new caravan, motorhome and campervan storage site. Sherwood Caravan and Motorhome Club Storage is just three miles outside Worksop in Nottinghamshire, easily accessed from both the M1 and A1. The site offers more than 1,150 hardstanding spaces, 24-hour access, CCTV and electronic alarm systems. It has been rated Gold by CaSSOA, the Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association. This is a secure facility in a great location for a large number of Club members. If you would like to store your vehicle when you are not touring please visit camc.com/sherwoodstorage to find out more.

ensuring that you stay cosy throughout your visits.

SITES TO CONSIDER

Perhaps Cadeside Club Campsite on the outskirts of Wellington in Somerset will appeal? Located just under two miles away from the M5, this small site is a great base for walkers – the pretty Blackdown Hills

For a really active break, White Water Park Club Campsite in Teeside is a must. As well as thrills and spills at the Tees Barrage International White Water Centre, you could try the Air Trail high ropes adventure course, the Jump 360 trampoline park and the Team Sport karting track – all walkable from your pitch!

For a more relaxing trip, Henley Four Oaks Club Campsite in Oxfordshire might fit the bill. You could take a walk alongside the Thames before warming up in one of Henley’s cosy pubs, or perhaps visit other charming places such as Bray, Marlow and Windsor.

Hunter’s Moon Club Campsite in Dorset is also a great spot if you would like to go walking. There are 91 hardstanding pitches at this site, which is close to Wareham, west of

Another venue to consider is Lickpenny Matlock, our newest site, which sits just to the east of Matlock and the Peak District National Park. There are more than 120 generous hardstanding pitches and two centrally-heated facilities blocks here, while the woodland walk is ideal for dogs. The whole family will enjoy trips to local attractions such as The Heights of Abraham (see camc.com/ greatsavingsguide for a 20% discount on entry).

For information on all of the Club campsites that are open all year, visit camc.com/oay

*Standard booking deposits (ie non-promotional bookings) are fully refundable if you cancel or amend your booking up to 21 days before your stay. The deposit for each stay will be only £5 at any UK Club campsite.

February half-term and Valentine’s breaks

Enjoy a cosy getaway this winter at one of the Club’s superb glamping destinations. We have glamping pods available at Brighton in East Sussex, Abbey Wood in London and Moreton-in-Marsh in the Cotswolds during February.

Members can take advantage of a special offer this month with a double discount on Experience Freedom bookings of 20% (usually 10%) by using the code CLUBMAG20 when booking*. You could stay for three nights during half-term from just £261.60 (based on three nights in a glamping pod at Brighton Club Campsite or Moreton-in-Marsh Club Campsite between 17-20 February 2025. The price includes the double member discount of 20% (£65.40)).

Valentine’s Day is also a great excuse to get away – so why not enjoy some time in the great outdoors before snuggling up in a glamping

pod with a loved one? Prices start from £333.60 (based on three nights in a glamping pod at Brighton Club Campsite or Moreton-in-Marsh Club Campsite between 14-16 February 2025. The price includes the double member discount of 20%* (£83.40)).

For more information and to book your stay please visit camc.com/ experiencefreedom

* Save 20% on all new three-night stay glamping bookings made for travel between 3 Jan-31 Dec 2025. You must make your booking by 16 February 2025 to take advantage of this offer. Use code CLUBMAG20 at checkout. No other discount can be used in conjunction with this offer. Standard terms and conditions apply. Information correct at time of going to press.

NEW Mobile Internet Solution Range

Specifically designed for Caravans and Motorhomes

Stream, Browse, Share with the brand new AMR104X 4G Category 6 package or the AMR105X 5G Wi-Fi 6 package. Designed specifically for the leisure market, the new AMR mobile internet solutions have a 2.8" colour screen that allows you to easily monitor your router's status, view information such as signal strength, service provider and monthly data usage. The Dual SIM routers are fully unlocked to any network and even allow the user to toggle between LTE and existing Wi-Fi networks when available to minimise roaming costs. The 4 element Mi-Mo antenna utilises the latest technology to fully support 3G, 4G and 5G and has a DC isolation switch to provide the option to power off the router when not in use, minimising battery consumption.

12/24 V DC

ON/OFF Switch

The ON/OFF switch isolates the router from the power source when switched off, preventing unexpected battery drain.

Unlocked Dual SIM

Antenna available in three colours

For more information visit www.avtex.co.uk Or call 029 2084 7670

2.8” LED Screen

The large LED Screen allows you to easily check your data usage, connected devices, signal strength and network status no matter where the unit is mounted.

QR Code / Easy Connect

The two unlocked SIM cards offer maximum coverage while minimising roaming costs. E Mark and PSTI Compliant

4G & 5G options available

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

DAYS OUT FOR LESS

MEMBERS RECEIVE DISCOUNTS FROM HUNDREDS OF ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITY PROVIDERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY. HERE’S A SMALL SELECTION...

DAWS HILL VINEYARD, BUCKS

BURNBY HALL GARDENS & MUSEUM, YORKSHIRE

These gardens in Pocklington near York feature over 80 varieties of Hardy Water Lilies (blooming between June and August). At other times you can enjoy a tulip festival, Sunday brass band concerts and activities for children. Make time for the Stewart Museum, too, which showcases artefacts collected by Major Percy

Stewart. Club members benefit from two-for-one entry to the gardens and museum (or a 50% discount if you are visiting alone). The attraction is closed over the Christmas holiday period, reopening on 6 January.

Info: burnbyhallgardens.com Club campsites: York Beechwood Grange; York Rowntree Park

Vineyard tours are half price for Club members at this beautiful estate and winery in the stunning Chilterns. The vineyard produces English sparkling wine entirely on-site using Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grape varieties. Visitors can learn about the craftsmanship behind the quality wines while enjoying the serene landscape. Pre-book online using the discount code by emailing info@ dawshillvineyard.co.uk.

Info: dawshillvineyard.co.uk

Club campsites: Henley Four Oaks; Wyatts Covert

HECKINGTON WINDMILL, LINCOLNSHIRE

Visit the only eight-sail windmill in the country. You can climb to the top of the windmill, explore the visitor centre, buy stone-ground flour and gifts in the shop, visit the tea rooms or sample the beer at the micro-brewery. Pre-booking is required. Club members receive a 10% discount on the windmill entry fee.

Info: heckingtonwindmill.org.uk

Affiliated campsites: Wagtail Country Park; Milestone; Rutland

UPSIDE DOWN HOUSE, SUSSEX

Let your imagination run wild and take some hilarious photos at this fun attraction on Brighton’s seafront, where the world has been turned on its head! There are a number of rooms to explore, and Club members get a 10% discount on standard tickets. Please note that pre-booking is required.

Info: upsidedownhouse.co.uk Club campsite: Brighton

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.

QUINCE HONEY FARM

As a Club member you can receive a 25% discount on the price of entry to this working honey farm and attraction. Take a honey factory tour before enjoying honey tasting, a beekeeping demo, bee-friendly seed planting, candle rolling and more. Visitors can also enjoy gardens, indoor and outdoor play areas and a shop and restaurant. Dogs are welcome on site (excluding the Soft Play Hive). Motorhome parking is available (please contact venue for details). Pre-booking required.

Info: quincehoneyfarm.co.uk

Club campsites: Exmoor House; Exebridge Lakeside

POINTERS Letters

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

STAR LETTER

Positive charge

We’ve had our caravan for two years (an Eriba Ocean Drive) and have stayed in it over 240 nights in that time at over 70 sites in eight countries. We started with a plug-in hybrid but switched to an EV towcar in July and have used it on two trips so far, in the UK and France. We’ve had a positive experience on both trips, altogether totalling over 2,500 miles. In that time we used a couple of dozen public charging points all linked to our electricity supplier via an app and card – really simple and seamless. The Club campsite EV charger we used in Winchester had a different approach to most public chargers – pre-pay for a chosen amount of power rather than pay at the end. This means it may be most useful to use it towards the end of a stay to ensure the EV battery is topped up ahead of the next journey. It’s important to be aware that there is

no stopping early as you might on public chargers, so you need to know how much to put in at the start of the charge, and how long to leave it connected, as charging speeds may vary and be slower than you are used to elsewhere.

That said, it is a very useful asset to have on a site, and far better than attempting to charge through an outfit.

Rob Bamforth, via email

Editor’s note: It’s great to see EV towing working for Club members. In the October issue we covered the Towcar of the Year Awards, in which numerous all-electric and hybrid vehicles triumphed in their individual classes, with the Volvo XC60 T6 Plug-in Hybrid AWD Plus crowned overall winner. You can access October’s Digital Magazine via Google Play or the App Store.

AFRICAN ADVENTURE

Last winter we spent almost two months in Morocco with car and caravan. What a wonderful trip! We drove down via Bordeaux, having crossed at Newhaven to Dieppe. We crossed the border near Biarritz, and went across the centre of Spain. Malaga was a welcome sight – as it loomed in front of us, the sun came out, the temperature rocketed, and we suddenly found ourselves changing into T-shirts. We had a wonderful time and are heading there again this winter. Catherine Broughton, via email

Editor’s note: Sounds great! Some more of our members are travelling to Morocco on our tour in 2025 – sorry, it has sold out!

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.

MATCH

LIFT OFF

I thought you might be interested to see this gadget my husband made to pull awning pegs up with ease. The ring hooks over the peg, as seen in the photo. The bar gives plenty of leverage then to remove the peg!

Judith Devine, via email

PILLOW TALK

I would just like to say a big thank you to Charles in your technical department. Buying a replacement car and ensuring it meets the needs of your caravan can be a bit of a minefield. However he was able to help me look at the various options of several vehicles and whether they would be a good match given all the criteria involved. He did this in an easy-to-follow, helpful way and then sent a summary for me to consider. I would recommend your technical department to anyone needing such advice and guidance.

Nick Robinson, via email

Editor’s note: Great to hear the technical department could help, Nick. Others might like to check out our online towcar and caravan matching tool at camc.com/outfit-match.

FERRY GOOD SERVICE

We would love to hear about your adventures! Please email us at magazine@camc.com

[Following on from other correspondents’ suggestions re securing clothes in wardrobes during transit] We stumbled across a really simple solution that most people already have in their caravans or motorhomes. Take a pillow from your bed and squeeze it into the space above your clothes rail! Job done. No elastic bands, pipe insulation, bungees etc. John McClurey, via email

Thanks is due to Lorraine and Lynne (call handlers for the Overseas Travel Service) who saved us from either a long drive or long delay when returning from Roscoff to Plymouth at the end of September.

The ferry for Sunday 29th was cancelled due to bad weather. We had expected to have to wait until the Monday as our van was playing up and we wouldn’t have felt comfortable driving to another port.

We phoned the club on Friday afternoon when we heard the news. We spoke to Lorraine who said that Lynne would ring us back later. We had almost given up hope when, well past office hours that Friday evening, we were contacted to say they had managed to get us on a ferry on the Saturday (28th) afternoon. Fantastic service. Thank you ladies. Lesley and John Percil, via email

PLANE AND SIMPLE

What a memory jogger that photo was from Emma Danby-Harris in October’s Letters pages [Emma sent the picture above of her grandfather’s car and camping gear being loaded on to an aircraft at Lydd in Kent].

At the tender age of 15, I had the dubious pleasure of flying on the service from Lydd airport to Le Touquet with my dad, older sister, and her pal back in summer 1962.

The Hillman Minx was loaded up with two ridge tents – one for dad and me, one for the girls with canvas beds on wire frames – and all the camping gear. The door to the car section did fly open with a loud bang during the flight, making us all jump, but we arrived safely on the trip there and back.

We travelled down to Nice, camping on the way, guided by an unusual map from the AA. I still have the map we used (printed in 1960).

We pitched up in Nice, enjoyed local French cuisine for our evening meals in back-street cafes and walked along the promenade afterwards. We now tour Europe in a little more comfort with our Bailey caravan – but great memories from the past.

Howard Everingham, via email

HERD ABOUT BLACK KNOWL?

During the early hours of the morning, there were some extra visitors at Black Knowl Club Campsite taking advantage of the acorns around the oak tree, which is

opposite the facilities block. We visited the beautiful New Forest area in September.

Teresa Brailsford, via email

STAND SUGGESTION

We are keen cyclists and take our bikes with us on most of our stays at Club campsites. We have cycled from St David’s, Gowerton, Pembrey Country Park, Bolton Abbey Estate, and most recently across Anglesey while staying at Penrhos.

We have also noticed the increasing use of bikes and e-bikes by other members at these sites and we have shared route suggestions, as well as following some of Jonathan Manning’s routes.

All of which leads me to the thorny topic of securing the bikes on the pitch. Some sites have handy trees, hedges or fences, but [others] don’t have any decent or secure place to place the bikes and they are slightly inconvenient when left on the back of our van.

Would the Club consider adding Sheffield stands to a number of pitches at each site when possible, to enable members to securely store their bikes? They would also be useful for non-cyclists to secure property to as well.

Jonathan Roberts, via email

Editor’s note: We’re glad you’re enjoying cycling from our sites! We're currently looking into provision for cyclists and have passed your comments on to the relevant team. Jonathan Manning’s excellent cycle routes from Club campsites can be accessed monthly via the Digital Magazine app – simply search for ‘CAMC Magazine’ on Google Play or the App Store.

FLYING THE FLAG

I just wanted to sing the praises of the Red Pennant overseas [holiday] insurance having called upon the emergency team whilst on holiday with our caravan in France.

We experienced a worrying fault with the all-wheel drive and ABS on our first day towing our caravan down to the Loire Valley. We managed to limp to the site having gritted our teeth and hoped for the best, and from there we called the Club team for assistance.

From there the Red Pennant travel insurance took all of the worry out of the situation. The team kept me updated at every stage of the way, did all of the hard work organising things backstage and gave us options at every unfortunate obstacle, pulling out all of the stops to help us carry on enjoying the holiday we’d had planned.

In the short-term the team arranged for us to have use of a

French hire car, then when it became clear our own car wouldn’t be fixed in time, they arranged for it to be recovered back to the UK and shipped a 4x4 hire vehicle with towbar out to us in France –enabling us to carry on with our multi-site holiday and tow our caravan home.

It didn’t end there. On our return the insurance also covered us for claiming back a couple of days’ UK hire car rental while our own vehicle was in for repair, giving us the freedom and flexibility to get those all-important post-holiday chores and errands completed.

Honestly I won’t consider leaving the UK without this cover on future trips. There’s no way I could have pieced all of the logistics together myself and still manage to enjoy a fantastic summer break with my family.

Christian Luff, via email

MIGHTY SPRITE

Our From the Archives article about the National Motor Museum’s acquisition of a 1971 Sprite 400 (pictured below) prompted members to write in with their memories:

What a lovely memory and photo of the Sprite 400. We had the exact same model, including the curtains. We had it for 14 years, buying it in 1972 for £300 when our first son was two months old.

My husband put four shelves into the wardrobe to take holiday clothes for our two boys and us, and we travelled with a portable toilet fixed into the bottom of the wardrobe, using a toilet tent on site. This also doubled as a shower, having left a water bag with a tap heating up all day in a black plastic bag.

We sold it for £300 with all its accessories and tent camped with our sons all over Europe before returning to a caravan in 1996.

Your article in the November edition brought back some wonderful memories of our family’s first taste of caravanning. It was 1970, my sister and her husband had recently bought a small Ace touring caravan, and persuaded my father to join them on a holiday in the Lake District. To achieve this my father hired a Sprite 400 from a local dealer to be towed behind his 1500 GT Cortina. As a 15-year-old boy, the journey to the Lakes on the Saturday I will never forget.

We now have a twin-axle super caravan – cannot imagine how we slept on the table-sized bed all those years ago.

Thank you for this opportunity to share our memories. We are still going at age 79 and 80.

Christine and Geoffrey Calderbank, West Yorkshire

Club what’sTogether: got you talking?

On page 18 of this magazine you can read about the revamp of our online forum, Club Together. One exciting new feature is ‘Groups’ – an area where members can share their passions. Simply visit camc.com/clubtogether and click on ‘Groups’ below the ‘Quick Links’ header on the right-hand side. Topics currently covered include photography, camping and caravanning with dogs, cooking in the caravan and cycling adventures. Here’s just a taster...

Hello and welcome to any fellow cyclists!

Hi, we are two keen cyclists, particularly my OH who rides on the road, on off-road trails, and does a lot of smart bike training at home as well. We both have road e-bikes and mountain bike e-bikes, and OH has all sorts of other bike types. We also enjoy watching road racing, velodrome events and cyclo-cross events. We generally take our bikes away with us, and take in lots of the wonderful scenery around the UK. Home is Yorkshire, so we need the e-motors to get up some of the hills.

Takethedogalong

Bikes on our pitch... we were down there to watch the start of the Tour of Britain in Penzance.

My sister and her husband took the lead… but to my father’s dismay our Cortina was absolutely no match for the car in front! As we kept dropping further and further behind, the only way to keep up was to drop down into third gear, thrash the poor thing to catch up, change back up into fourth gear, only to slowly drop back behind again.

Both families thoroughly enjoyed the holiday, and took to caravanning like ducks to water. The Sprite 400 took no small part in that decision, and being so modern in its

style and decor, really made me fall in love with it, so much so, I drove my father mad as I pestered him to buy one. Unfortunately for me at the time, he was having none of it, and bought a slightly larger second-hand caravan that we used for many years to come.

Not too long after getting married, my wife and I bought a second-hand Fairholme Chaffinch which I towed with a three-litre Capri. We also joined the Caravan Club at the same time in 1980. We have been caravanning ever since with a variety of outfits, touring the British Isles from top to bottom. Next year we are looking forward to celebrating our Golden Wedding and my 70th birthday on Orkney. All thanks to the Sprite 400.

Peter Gillott, via email

Let’s see your dogs

“Here’s Derby, 13 years old and still loving his trips in the Eriba and big hikes in the mountains.”

Kevin Matthews

“He’s lovely. They really do love going on tour. Here is another veteran tourer, our almost 15-year-old chocolate labrador. A real water lover as you might expect.”

Takethedogalong

“Love seeing your dog pictures! This is my dog who is a bocker (beagle/cocker spaniel). She loves going camping with us and has stayed on a few sites including Southland and the Norfolk Broads.”

Rowena

“This is Hugo, he’s a HUGE caravanning fan, always super chilled, probably because the pack is all together and there’s no Amazon man!”

TheCaravanningMummy

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.

Carsington Water is a big draw for nature and watersports lovers

Philip Moon visits five sites in the Peak District and surrounds

Derby DAYS T

he Peak District and its surrounds offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy everything from walking, cycling and water sports to visiting stately homes, transport museums, underground caverns and historic mills. That’s before we even mention the beautiful countryside. My base for the week is The Firs Club Campsite, just outside Belper, but I’ll be visiting a number of other Club sites and CLs during my stay. Let’s find out what makes each one special and what they have to offer

The Firs Club Campsite

Pleasant rural site with good views over the countryside. Belper, is just two miles away. Pitches: 64

Max outfit length: 8m

Member view

“Lovely place to chill – beautiful scenery and lots to do. Good bus links too.”

Kevin and Diana

Site view

“A special place… We’ve worked all over the country, but this is the best. As we’re local we can give members lots of help to get the best out of the area.”

Jeanette

Food & drink

1 Scuffle (pizzeria), 1 Campbell St, Belper DE56 1AP

Contact: scufflebelper.co.uk

Culture

The Ritz Cinema, 76B King Street, Belper DE56 1QA

Contact: ritz-belper.co.uk, 01773 822224

Outdoor fun

Alport Heights, Belper DE56 2DQ

Contact: visitpeakdistrict.com

For the family

Crich Tramway Village, Cromford Road, Matlock DE4 5DP

Contact: tramway. co.uk, 01773 854 321 Member saving available: see camc. com/greatsavingsguide for details, terms and conditions

Scan here to book a pitch at The Firs

INFO

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

The Firs is a pleasant, medium-sized site in a quiet location. Pitches to the rear of the site command great views over the countryside, while those with canine companions will be pleased to find that there’s an off-lead dog walking area. The site is also very conveniently located for visiting the many attractions nestling along the Derwent Valley. [These attractions are also close to Lickpenny Matlock Club Campsite, the Club’s newest location, which sits to the east of Matlock and Matlock Bath.]

Tuesday, and my first visit is to Cromford Mills, just under seven miles from The Firs. Built originally in 1771 by Richard Arkwright, inventor of the water frame, it pioneered the factory system. Such is its historical importance that it forms part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site. I join a fantastic tour led by volunteer guide, Bev, whose knowledge is immense. Arkwright 2 for 1

himself makes an appearance in holographic form to tell us how, from humble beginnings, he became one of the richest men in Britain. The mill yard also includes a café, a cheese shop, a plant stall, and a second-hand bookshop – so allow yourself two to three hours for a visit.

HITTING THE HEIGHTS

My next port of call is the Heights of Abraham at Matlock Bath. Parking at the railway station car park, it’s a short walk to a cable car which whisks you up the side of the valley to the Heights, a tourist attraction since the 1780s. The views are spectacular and there’s lots to do – not only do you have the opportunity to explore the hilltop country park, but also its underground caverns, rock shop and exhibitions. One of these tells the story of the Heights as an attraction, while the other shows the fashions worn by visitors over

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Carsington Water Club Campsite

Nestled within a pine plantation with pitches in open clearings, this site offers easy access to Carsington Water – great for water sports, walking and bird watching.

Pitches: 105

Max outfit length: 9m

Member view

“Cycling, walking – it’s fabulous. The scenery is marvellous. It’s a bit like Yorkshire meets Wales.”

Sue and Mark

Site view

“Paradise in the Peaks.”

Ian and Liz

Food & drink

The Barley Mow Inn, Main St, Kirk Ireton DE6 3JP

Contact: thebarleymowinn.co.uk, 01335 370306

Culture

Kedleston Hall, Kedleston Road, near Quarndon, Derby DE22 5JH

Contact: nationaltrust.org.uk, 01332 842191

fun

Circular walk around Carsington Water (8 miles)

Contact: stwater.co.uk

For the family

Gulliver’s Kingdom, Temple Walk, Matlock Bath DE4 3PG

Contact: gulliverskingdom resort.co.uk, 01925 444888

Scan here to book a pitch at Carsington Water

“ I opt for a tour of Masson Cavern ”

the years. I opt for a tour of Masson Cavern and gain a lesson in geology, which covers the formation of the cave and how it was mined for lead in the 17th century. Club members receive a 20% discount on entry to the Heights of Abraham attraction – see camc. com/greatsavingsguide for details.

Headed back towards The Firs, I drop in on the Great British Car Journey, where Club members can again take advantage of a discount (£3.50). This fascinating motoring museum is only about a mile and a half from the site and well worth the visit.

As Richard Usher, the man responsible for the collection, explains in his introduction to the audio guide, it’s about preserving popular cars and not just the exotic ones. There are more than 150 in the collection, which charts the history of the British motor industry from the 1920s to the 1980s.

A related attraction at the museum called ‘Drive Dad’s Car’ offers visitors the opportunity to pilot some of the vehicles –with over 35 classic British cars just waiting

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Buxton Club Campsite

In the heart of the Peak District National Park, set in a tree-lined former quarry and about two miles from the town centre.

Pitches: 115

Max outfit length: 9m

Tent camping available

Member view

“We’re here for a family get-together and what a fantastic place with so much to do.”

Alex and Shirley

Site view

“Peace and quiet – a fabulous location.” Tracey and Richard

Food & drink

Buxton Brewery Tap House and Cellar Bar, Old Court House, George St, Buxton SK17 6AY

Contact: buxtonbrewery.co.uk, 01298 214085

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Buxton Opera House, Water St, Buxton SK17 6XN

Contact: buxtonoperahouse.org. uk, 01298 72190

Outdoor fun

Go Ape – Buxton, Buxton Country Park, Green Lane, Buxton SK17 9DH

Contact: goape.co.uk/ locations/buxton

Member saving available: see camc.com/greatsavingsguide for details, terms and conditions

For the family

Culture Pavilion Gardens, St John’s Road, Buxton SK17 6BE

Contact: paviliongardens.co.uk, 01298 23114

Member saving available: see camc.com/ greatsavingsguide for details, terms and conditions

Scan here to book a pitch at Buxton

Wednesday, and my focus today is on Carsington Water Club Campsite, a magnificent spot located close to the southern end of the eponymous reservoir and set in a pine forest. Assistant Site Manager Ian describes it as “Paradise in the Peaks”. His partner and fellow manager Liz elaborates: “Natural, quiet, peaceful – just listen to the birds singing in the trees!”

It’s a short distance to Carsington Water’s visitor centre. Here there are cafés, shops and an exhibition by Severn Trent, explaining how water is managed and transferred to the home and things we can all do to save this precious resource.

There’s also an RSPB shop at which you can hire binoculars and catch up on the latest sightings; today the list includes buzzards, sparrowhawks and hobbies as well as pochards, warblers and sandpipers.

Adjacent to the visitor centre is the water sports centre, where you can hire canoes, paddleboards or sailing dinghies; boat trout fishing is also available.

I’m not going on the water today – I’m off on a two-wheeled adventure. From the visitor centre, I pick up National Cycle Route 547, which heads west towards Tissington. It mostly follows narrow off-road tracks or very quiet roads. There are some hills, which

a few years ago I would have considered ‘moderate’, but now, with my aging limbs, I’d recategorise as ‘demanding’. Time for an electric bike perhaps?

YOU CAN’T TOUCH TISS

Tissington is a delightful village, centred around Tissington Hall (see tissingtonhall.co. uk for visiting information) and the associated Herbert’s Tea Rooms.

I’m particularly lucky that my visit coincides with the well-dressing festival, held each year in the week following Ascension Thursday (information about Tissington’s well dressing in 2025 will be available on the hall’s website in due course). This tradition dates to a time when locals decorated their wells to give thanks to the God for their water supply; other villages in Derbyshire follow a similar custom.

At Tissington I join the Tissington Trail (Route 68), heading north. It’s a disused railway line, graded and gravelled, so fairly easy cycling. After about six miles I branch off east onto Route 548, which links with the High

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4

Whitehouse

Farm

Certificated Location

Bakewell and Ashbourne are both around 20 minutes’ drive away.

Sites Directory & Handbook 2025/26 p303

Food & drink

Hartington Farm Shop and Cafe, Unit 1 Mill Ln, Hartington SK17 0AN

Contact: hartingtonfarmshop. co.uk, 01298 84496

Peak Trail – another former railway line. A spur then takes me down through Hopton and Carsington. The last leg hugs the western edge of the reservoir and back to the Club site – a total of 26.5 miles.

On Thursday I’m headed for Buxton, calling en route at Haddon Hall, located just off the A6 between Rowsley and Bakewell. It is one of several historic houses in the area, with others including Chatsworth, Hardwick and Kedleston Hall (the latter two being National Trust properties).

was once a limestone quarry. Site Managers Tracey and Richard report resident barn and tawny owls as well as visiting badgers, foxes and jackdaws. Tracey adds that you might also spot some rare and protected wildflowers. The site adjoins a 100-acre wood; in early May, when I drop in, the trees are fresh and verdant, and I’m told they are equally splendid in autumn.

Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow, Long Rake, Monyash DE45 1JS

Contact: english-heritage.org.uk

Outdoor fun

Thor’s Cave, Manifold Valley (Wetton Car Park, Carr Lane, Wetton DE6 2AF)

Contact: visitpeakdistrict.com

For the family Culture

Peak Wildlife Park, Winkhill, Leek ST13 7QR

Contact: peakwildlifepark.co.uk, 01538 308880

Haddon Hall is charming, commanding attractive views of the River Wye, which runs through its grounds. The hall’s origins date back to the Norman and Saxon eras, although the buildings are mostly late medieval and Tudor. The chapel is particularly interesting, featuring medieval wall paintings depicting the stories of St Nicholas and St Christopher. There’s a free guided tour of the hall on Mondays, but there are ‘spotlight talks’ on particular parts on other days, so check out haddonhall.co.uk when planning your visit. There’s a 20% discount off the entry price for Club members.

Buxton was developed in Georgian and Victorian times to rival the spa towns of Harrogate and Bath, and to this day it retains an air of cultured gentility, with its Opera House and various festivals. Buxton Club Campsite lies on the edge of town in what

I take the path through the woods to one of Buxton’s special attractions – Poole’s Cavern. It’s a large natural cave adorned with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites – some of which are growing at surprising rates. Myth has it that it was once the abode of a flesh-eating giant… a story probably told to discourage children from entering the cave by themselves. Archaeological evidence shows it has been used by humans since Neolithic times.

Castleton Club Campsite

Enjoy spectacular Peak District scenery during a stay here – the summits of Mam Tor and Kinder Scout are nearby.

Pitches: 92

Max outfit length: 9m

Member view

“A lovely site with well-kept facilities. Good transport links too. Yesterday we took the open-top bus to Chatsworth.”

Heather and Stuart

Ye Olde Nags Head, Cross St, Castleton S33 8WH

Contact: yeoldenagshead.co.uk, 01433 620248

Culture

Eyam Museum, Hawkhill Rd, Eyam S32 5QP

Contact: eyam-museum.org.uk, 01433 631371

Outdoor fun

Kinder Scout circular walk, Edale station, Edale S33 7ZA

Contact: nationaltrust.org.uk (for directions and information)

For the family

Treak Cliff Cavern, Buxton Rd, Castleton S33 8WP

Contact: bluejohnstone.com, 01433 620571

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

Scan here to book a pitch at Castleton

On my way back to base I take in one of the Club’s Certificated Locations. Whitehouse Farm, owned by sisters Jean and Pam, is situated on the edge of the tiny village of Heathcote. It’s very rural, very quiet and very beautiful. The views on a clear day would be stunning; today, alas, is wet and grey. The location, within a stone’s throw of the Tissington and High Peak Trails, is ideal for cyclists and walkers – you could also use it as a base from which to explore beauty spots such as Dovedale and the Manifold Valley.

A SPECIAL SITE

Friday is my last day and I’m focusing on Castleton. The Club site here is located between Hope and Castleton; the latter, with its many pubs, cafés and shops, being within easy walking distance. The campsite has excellent facilities including a drying room and a games room equipped for pool and table tennis. “What makes it special?” I ask Assistant Site Manager Tom. He looks at me as if it’s a daft question. “Look around you,” he says, “it’s location, location, location”, pointing up to the magnificent Mam Tor and the other surrounding hills. Castleton’s a brilliant place for a walking holiday – but as I’m not feeling that athletic I choose instead to indulge my historical interests with a visit to Peveril Castle. Dating from the 12th century, it’s now largely ruined but its keep remains and the views over the Hope Valley make the climb worthwhile.

My next stop is Speedwell Cavern, one of several caverns which surround Castleton. I’ve chosen it because it’s a little different: the trip is by boat. Time for hard hats and keeping heads low as we make our way through the passageways, excavated 200 years ago by lead miners. Eventually we emerge in a magnificent cavern likened by some to a cathedral. Here we disembark for a good look around and to stare into the abyss of the flooded ‘Bottomless Pit’. Our guide tells us of the cunning system of warning bells in place to alert us in case of suddenly rising waters.

I finish off my visit with a stroll around the village. Not only are there the aforementioned pubs and cafés, but also several jewellery shops offering pendants, cufflinks, earrings and the like made with the attractive Blue John stone excavated from local caverns. There’s also a visitor centre which has an interesting exhibition on the history of the area. Alas, it’s now time for me to head home, but there’s more to see and do, and I’ll be back.

Walking

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.

Club Shop

Here’s a selection of upcoming events* being held by the Club’s 10 Divisions. This month we focus on the Central Division...

Central Division

Derbyshire Centre

Info: derbyshirecentre.co.uk

24-26 January: Donington Park Farmhouse, Castle Donington, Leicestershire

7-9 February: Sherwood Forest Holiday Park, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire

Midland Centre

Info: midlandcentre.co.uk

7-9 February: Love2Stay AS, Shrewsbury, Shropshire

14-16 February: Astley Village Hall, Stourport-on-Severn, Worcestershire

Notts Centre

Info: nottscentre.com

24-26 January:

Sherwood Forest Holiday Park, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire

14-16 February: Winthorpe Community Centre, Newark, Nottinghamshire

28 February-2 March: Donington Park Farmhouse, Castle Donington, Leicestershire

Home Counties

Division

24-26 January: Padworth Village Hall, Reading, Berkshire (berkshirecentrecaravanclub.co.uk)

30 January-1 February: Ferry Meadows Club Campsite, Peterborough (bedscentrecc.com)

CENTRE EVENTS ARE OPEN TO

Manor School, Fordingbridge, Hampshire (whampshirecc.co.uk)

Welsh Division

31 January-2 February: Manor Hotel, Crickhowell, Powys (gwentcentre.co.uk)

South East Division

31 January-2 February: Park Hall Hotel, Charnock Richard, Preston, Lancashire (southlancscentre.com)

14-16 February: Drax Sports And Social Club, Drax, Selby, North Yorkshire (southyorkshirecentre.co.uk)

7-11 March: South Cliff Holiday Park, Bridlington, East Yorkshire (midwestyorkshirecentre.co.uk)

South West Division

24-26 January: Sunnydale Farm, Netley, Southampton, Hampshire (whampshirecc.co.uk)

21-23 February: Backwell School, Backwell, Somerset (avoncentre.co.uk)

21-23 February: Forres Sandle

HOW TO JOIN A CENTRE

Centres are groups of members that arrange regular, cost-effective get-togethers across the country.

You can attend specific centre events no matter where you live.

For information on how to join your local centre, visit camc.com/centres.

30 January-4 February: White House Farm, Uckfield, East Sussex (eastsussexcc.org.uk)

14-16 February: Willingdon Community School, Lower Willingdon, East Sussex (eastsussexcc.org.uk)

Northern Division

24-26 January: Victoria Park, Southport, Merseyside (southlancscentre.com)

FIND AN EVENT

West Central Division

31 January-2 February: Southport, Merseyside (cheshirecentre.co.uk)

14-16 February: Siddington, Cheshire (cheshirecentre.co.uk)

Anglia Division

17-19 January: Mayflower High School, Billericay, Essex (secc-online.org.uk)

*All events subject to availability

For rally listings visit camc.com/clubevents You can use the search tool at this web address to look for an event near you according to date and location.

EVENTS LISTED MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE – PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANISERS PRIOR TO TRAVEL. To find out more about the Club’s Divisions visit camc.com/divisions

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HONOURING THE PAST

Remembering his fathers wartime service, Ray Rutter embarks on a tour of the Kent coast

As a young man, my late father, Christopher Rutter, served in the military in Kent during the Second World War, before taking part in the D-Day landings at Arromanches beach in Normandy and subsequent major battles in Bayeux and Caen. Having visiting my Dad’s old barracks in Dorchester a few years ago, my wife Angela and I decided to look further into his wartime history, planning a two-week trip around Kent to trace his footsteps in more detail.

Many of the military memorials dotted along the English south coast are within easy reach of Club campsites. Kent in particular boasts a well-placed range of sites, Affiliated sites and Certificated Locations offering the perfect opportunity to honour my father’s experiences and see what else this beautiful part of England has to offer. For the duration of our tour, we were pitched up at Daleacres Club Campsite, situated near Hythe on the south coast, not far from the M20.

Christopher was stationed at various locations across the county but mentioned the eastern seaside towns of Deal and Sandwich

often. In his initial military role as a motorcycle despatch rider he would have been very familiar with this stretch of coastline and the military positions along it. The modern visitor will find the area bursting with places that are looked after by the National Trust and English Heritage, and we tried to visit one each day. One recommendation is Walmer Castle, just outside Deal, which was built by Henry VIII as a defence against invasion. Following recent renovations, it is now possible to explore more rooms than ever inside the Tudor fortress.

WARTIME DEFENCES

I have always associated Dover with ferry crossings, but Christopher would have visited the town many times while on duty, particularly its spectacular castle. Built in the 1180s, it played a defensive role in the medieval, Tudor and Victorian eras, as well as two world wars. It is a remarkably complete castle, and for me, it’s the jewel in the English Heritage crown.

We struggled to see everything here in just one day. The underground tunnels, war rooms and hospital are fascinating, and the castle grounds are even home to a Saxon church (St Mary in Castro) and rare Roman lighthouse.

I took my binoculars hoping for a good view of France and shipping in the Channel

In 1940, Winston Churchill ordered the construction of gun batteries along this stretch of coast as an additional defence –Wanstone Battery, just a short distance east of Dover Castle, has in recent times been excavated, and open days are sometimes held. We also stopped by the sound mirrors located at nearby Fan Bay. These were built around 1920 as a forerunner to radar and increased the range at which enemy aircraft could be detected – trained military personnel claimed they could hear enemy aircraft taking off in Belgium and France.

After all this exploring we were in need of refreshments, so we headed for The Coastguard in St Margaret’s Bay. This nautically-themed pub is nestled in the foot of Bay Hill under those iconic white cliffs, and has been the closest English pub to France for 300 years.

Nearby sits South Foreland Lighthouse, which overlooks the treacherous Goodwin Sands and offers stunning views. In 1858 it was the first lighthouse in the world to shine an electric light, and on Christmas Eve 1898 it received the world’s first ship-to-shore radio transmission. Take your camera or binoculars – it's a real treat.

Back in the direction of Hythe, we stopped at Folkestone and climbed Castle Hill, the site of what was Folkestone Castle. It overlooks the town, the coast and the impressive Eurotunnel rail terminal. My youngest son, Joe, worked as a rail engineer there and recommended this viewpoint to me. Folkestone itself has developed a reputation in recent years as being a quirky and creative hub – there’s lots of public art on display throughout the town, while the harbour arm and surrounding area feature lots of places to eat as well as craft stalls.

ROYAL CONNECTION

Closer to site, we explored the 28-mile-long Royal Military Canal, which runs through Hythe itself. As its name suggests, it was built as a defence during the Napoleonic Wars, although it was never used as such. Today it is a valued resource attracting walkers and cyclists. The lovely Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway is also a must-see. The heritage steam trains run 13½ miles along the coast, with stops along the way, providing a fun way to explore the area’s beaches. The otherworldly shingle beach at its westernmost terminus, Dungeness, is Britain’s only

WHERE TO STAY

Stay at these campsites to discover the best of Kent (please check opening dates)

BEARSTED

CLUB CAMPSITE

Situated to the south of Maidstone, Bearsted sits next farmland and offers plenty of opportunity to explore the Kentish countryside, including the nearby North Downs. Not to be missed are the world-famous Leeds Castle, which is only two miles away, and Rochester Cathedral, the second oldest cathedral in England.

BLACK HORSE FARM CLUB CAMPSITE

In the picturesque Kent Downs National Landscape, Black Horse Farm is a great base for exploring south Kent. The historic city of Canterbury is within easy reach, and there are public transport links to Folkestone and Dover.

DALEACRES

CLUB CAMPSITE

Daleacres offers great facilities and offers easy access to the likes of the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway and Port Lympne Safari Park. The popular towns of Rye, Folkestone and Dover are also within reach. Tent-camping friends and family could join you on a holiday at this popular site .

designated desert. Backing on to the beach is Dungeness National Nature Reserve, which is a great place to spot interesting birdlife and fauna at any time of year.

One morning we ventured to the beach at Hythe for a dip and found many of the friendly locals doing the same; I was amazed to find the water nice and warm. Later that day, we took a pleasant stroll up the hill in Hythe to St Leonard’s Church to explore its famous ossuary. This is the biggest and bestpreserved collection of human skulls and bones in Britain, estimated to contain the remains of over 2,000 people. An extremely knowledgeable gentleman was on hand to tell us all about it.

A SURPRISE ENCOUNTER

On a clear, sunny day we took a walk along the famous white cliffs, and I took my binoculars hoping for a good view of France, and shipping in the Channel.

I thought of my dad again as we walked, the cliffs being such a powerful icon of dogged and unremitting defence during the Second World War. Just think of that image of a

I caught on the wind the unmistakable rasp of a Spitfire’s Merlin engine

Spitfire or Hurricane flying over the cliffs! I could hardly believe it when, not long into our walk, I caught on the wind the unmistakable rasp of a Merlin engine. A small dot appeared in the sky, and sure enough, there it was, swooping low along the white cliffs as though scripted: a converted twin-seat Spitfire! As a lifelong aviation nut, I was delighted.

Although we did a good job of exploring the Kent coast through my father’s eyes, it was apparent that it’s impossible to try and see everything this beautiful county has to offer in a mere two weeks.

■ I recently noticed with some interest that the the Club now runs a 10-night ‘D-Day: New Forest to Normandy’ tour – an excellent way to visit the D-Day landing beaches and associated landmarks (the next one runs in July 2025 – see camc.com/european-tours for more information). The tour includes five nights’ stay at Le Château de Martragny campsite, which is close to Arromanches. This campsite can also, of course, be booked independently, but I imagine an organised tour would be very informative.

WDONE THE

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With over 100 top live music acts this is a magical journey from the 1920s to the 1970s. Now in its 24th year, the festival is set on a superb heritage site with 15 beautifully themed indoor & outdoor venues in picturesque woodland, along with fascinating museums.

All caravanners & motorhomers get 5 nights stay in excellent campsites, adjacent to the festival, with 16 amp electric hook-up available.

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

LINCOLNSHIRE

EPWORTH (6m N) – Longacres, Mr Anthony Chapman, 82 Godnow Road, Crowle DN17 4EE. 07850 876904; 01724 710872; longacresnursery@aol. com. 112:SE766119; 53.599845, -0.841356. OAY; 1 acre; adults only; dogs; hdstdng; grass; peaceful; lawned; public trans, town, shop & pub in 1m; coarse fishing & golf in 5m; price fr £17 (pitch + 2 ad).

SOUTH YORKSHIRE

DONCASTER (8.7m N) – Moss Carr Farm, Mr Duncan Nicholls, Heyworth Lane, Moss, Doncaster DN6 0DQ.

07975 993885 (Steph, Mgr); 07792 733321 (Dan, Mgr); steph@ mosscarr.com. 111:SE579137; 53.616993, -1.124736. Open 1 Apr-31 Oct; 0.75 acre; dogs; grass; peaceful; coarse fishing CL; wkg fm; price fr £20 (pitch + 2 ad).

SUFFOLK

WOODBRIDGE (3.5m E) – Four Steps, Mr Keith James, Orford Road, Woodbridge IP12 2PP. 01394 460589; 07518 297950; fourstepscl@gmail. com. 156:TM311503; 52.102869, 1.373591. Open 1 Mar-31 Oct; 1.3 acres; dogs; adv bkg req; grass; peaceful; town & shop in 1m; price fr £17 (pitch + all occ).

SCOTLAND

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

CASTLE DOUGLAS (17.5m NW)

– Barskeoch Wood Lodge, Mr John Paterson, Ayr Road, St John’s Town of Dalry, Castle Douglas DG7 3SS. 07778 893393; timberfool264@gmail.com. 77:NX608835; 55.1265, -4.18326. OAY; 0.7 acre; dogs; sl pitches; unfenced water; hdstdng; 16A; max o’fit length: 10mtrs; ideal for families; game fishing CL; views; price fr £20 (pitch + 2 ad).

WALES

POWYS

WELSHPOOL (4m S) – Offa’s Meadow, Mrs Julia and Mr Alan Jones, The Meadow, Forden, Welshpool SY21 8LZ. 07951 323665; offasmeadow@ yahoo.com. 126:SJ239019; 52.61, -3.1245. Open 1 Apr-31 Oct; 1 acre; dogs; adv bkg req; MH drive over waste disp; grass; max o’fit length: 7.5mtrs; peaceful; ideal for families; views; lawned; public tran & pub in 1m; price fr £16 (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.

457 VERWOOD – Southern Comfort. Tel nbr 01202 822372 no longer available.

714 BLACKBURN – Mire Fold Farm. New alternative nbr: 07969 089888.

983 HOLT – White House Farm. Price now fr £22.

1602 HARROGATE – Lower Banks Farm. Alternative nbr: 07968 671044.

1987 BETHESDA – Bryn Llys. Now with shwr (exc).

Farmland near Welshpool

IMPORTANT INFO

See camc.com for the latest site and CL information. Please note: routes provided by autoroutes or satellite navigation systems may include roads

2013 TYWYN – Cefn Coch Country Guest House. New nbr 07484 750056 replaces old contact number.

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.

Five-star

We talk to Jessica Evans about the Club’s Certificated Locations (CLs) – fantastic, five-pitch sites dotted across the UK

Found across, England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, CLs are small campsites with five pitches, offering members very special holiday experiences. CLs often boast picturesque locations on farmland, beside country pubs or in open fields, while some are ideal for city breaks or seaside getaways. Here we chat to the Club’s CL Manager, Jessica Evans, about her role and why access to these sites is such a great member-only benefit…

Hello Jess – how long have you been working for the Club and when did you take on the role of CL Manager?

I joined the Club in 2012 working for the travel team in the Contact Centre, then I progressed to being a team manager and being responsible for the social media customer service team before applying for the CL Manager role in late 2022.

What does your job entail?

I manage the administration team at head office and oversee a team of CL consultants and advisors – our ‘boots on the ground’. This mix of volunteers and paid consultants ensures the CL network runs smoothly, and I make sure they meet our standards. I also ensure the CL network is included in Club projects and marketing, keeping it relevant and valuable to our members.

How many CLs are there in the UK? Currently, we have 2,160 CLs that are fully certificated.

What is the appeal of CLs?

As they are all owned by different people, each CL is unique – that is the main attraction I think. As CLs are often a small part of a bigger landholding, they usually offer members space and views. The CL experience can be a simple as members want – you can have a nearly ‘off-grid’ feeling but with some reassurance that the owners are on hand when or if needed.

How does a site become ‘Certificated’?

We have a minimum requirement of 0.5 acres of land before any applications can be submitted. Our job is to then assess the application and see whether we already have CLs in that location – is there member demand for another?

We then send out a consultant to do a primary visit. They assess the practicalities (water, waste, access, pitch separation etc) and make recommendations for any

work that would need to be done before it could become a CL. We also have to advise local councils and neighbours to see if we have any objections to a CL being in that location. If all is well and the landowner is willing to invest in the work we will have a second visit from the consultant to sign off and say the CL is ready to open.

What can members expect from a CL in terms of facilities?

Our CLs offer a variety of facilities, so it’s always important to check the CL’s web profile and essential information before your visit. Electric hook-up is widely available now, but some CLs may charge for energy use in addition to the pitch fee – each owner sets their own policies, so please use electricity thoughtfully. Some CLs also provide additional facilities like WCs or showers. Consider taking some cash. Many CL owners sell local or homemade produce, and some even raise money for local charities through these sales.

How do I book and pay for a CL?

Each CL is independently run and manages its own bookings, so the preferred contact method can vary. To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date details, always check the CL’s profile on our website. CL owners may choose to list a phone number, an email address, or a web link – some of which may lead to their own booking platform.

Any tips on getting the most from your CL stay?

It’s a great idea to touch base with the owner and say hello when you

arrive – they often have fantastic local tips. CL owners will also point you in the direction of the nearest pub or restaurant. Most of the CLs have information areas containing details of all the wonderful things you can explore.

What can members do to help CL owners?

Let the owner know if you are due to arrive early or late – they may be doing other jobs around your arrival times. If you spot any issues, kindly let the owner know so they can fix them quickly. Remember, these are private businesses, so show respect for the owner’s privacy and property, and always follow their requests. Be a thoughtful guest by recycling in the bins provided and using eco-friendly, formaldehyde-free toilet chemicals, which help owners keep costs down. Running a CL takes a lot of hard work and care, so showing appreciation for the owner’s effort goes a long way and makes everyone’s stay even more enjoyable.

Can you tell us a bit about the Club’s CL of the Year competition? Essentially we want to get our members to nominate their favorite CLs across the UK, shining a spotlight on the hidden gems that make every stay special. This is a chance to celebrate the incredible dedication of CL owners, who go above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences in terms of warm hospitality, local tips, or beautifully kept sites. For the CL owners, it’s a heartwarming boost to know their hard work is appreciated.

Freeze

frames

Rebecca Cole highlights some different forms of snow and ice to look out for over the winter

Brrr! Do you love or hate the colder months? For many, this time of year is about drawing the curtains early and getting cosy, but I’m always crossing my fingers and hoping for a ‘proper winter’. They seem fewer and further between as the years go on, but when they do come about, I’m either out of the door to explore on foot or, if the driving conditions are safe, out in the campervan making the most of it. That’s it really – white stuff makes me happy!

Whether you are on a snowy Scottish mountain or just yards from home, it’s easy to appreciate winter’s beauty. There’s so much variety, too – just like no two snowflakes are the same, no ice formation or snowy day is the same either. In this article, I’m going to introduce you to just a few of the things you can look out for when the temperature drops, with a few photographic examples from my own adventures.

HAIR ICE

My first sighting of hair ice was during a stay in Hawes, North Yorkshire, where it was so cold that I had to wear my fleece hat all night in the ’van. On a trip to nearby Snaizeholme to hopefully spot red squirrels, a robin appeared, and on the fallen branch beneath its feet was a beautiful patch of hair ice.

Hair ice (pictured beside the robin opposite) has a candyfloss-like structure, its fine strands

extruded into waves and curls by a combination of the cold and a fungus present in the rotten broadleaf wood on which it forms. The fungus helps preserve the ice, often for several hours. Finding hair ice at Snaizeholme [in the Yorkshire Dales] delighted me just as much as the sight of red squirrels scampering around in the pine woods.

RIME ICE

Still in the Yorkshire Dales, I encountered rime ice while approaching the summit of Great Whernside in a white-out, where I was confronted with what appeared to be a great concrete wall. It turned out Jack Frost had been at work, the foggy, windy and sub-zero moorland providing just the right conditions for this type of ice. Rime can easily be confused with hoar frost (see below), but is usually distinguished by its asymmetric character. On Great Whernside this simple wire fence (above right) had the look of solid ice brickwork!

HOAR FROST

Hoar frost forms when water vapour hits sub-zero surfaces, building and growing into hairlike structures. The hoar frost on this petrified leaf (right) had formed during a calm, clear night. If you’re taking photos, you need to move fast as frost can disappear quickly in the sun. I turned the leaf on its side to catch the light.

Above from top: icicle ‘bells’; rime ice formed a dramatic pattern on this wire fence; hoar frost on a frozen leaf

ICE FLOWERS

You don’t need to travel far to see ‘ice flowers’, which form on glass panes when there is very cold air on the outside and warmer, moist air on the inside. They grow slowly and are influenced by imperfections in the glass which create wonderful patterns. The ice flowers in the photo (top left) appeared on my car window, the effect enhanced by the colour of the sky and surrounding buildings. Sometimes the flowers fill the window – but here they resemble an angel gliding overhead!

DIAMOND DUST AND SUN HALOS

Diamond dust is still on my tick list! The phenomenon occurs when very cold ground-level cloud forms, often beneath a cloudless sky. Light is refracted through ice crystals in the cloud to create a dust-like effect.

Sun halos are formed in a similar way, but occur higher up, the sun refracting thousands of randomly positioned ice crystals. The one in the photo on the left is what is known as a ‘22° halo’, formed high in a cold sky on a warm summer’s day – too far away for us to see the ice crystals responsible for it (remember to never look directly at the sun).

SNOW EGGS

I have yet to find these described anywhere although they must be formed in a similar way to ‘ice eggs’, where small pieces of ice are rolled over by the wind on a lake or sea, getting larger and larger (some have been recorded at nearly a metre in diameter!). The ones I spotted (right) were on the smaller side, but it felt like Jack Frost had been out to play with the Ice Queen!

GLAZE ICE

Glaze ice occurs when drizzle or rain hits a surface, such as a branch or power line. Although

it can be dangerous on pavements, it looks sublime on plants, occurring in striking formations. It isn’t safe to explore in the campervan with this menace on the roads, but to take this photo I attached ice-grip straps to my boots and walked to a nearby beck to admire nature’s artwork.

FINAL NOTES

When exploring icy landscapes, have fun but stay safe. Dress warmly, drive carefully (and remember to winterise your camping vehicle!). A couple more things to look out for: wind-blown shapes on the leeward side of stone walls and interesting shapes in iced-over puddles where pockets of air have caught underneath. We’d love to see your photos of any ice formations you find over the winter months. Send them in to magazine@camc.com.

Explore the world on an escorted motorhome tour

“It’s

a big world

… ”

… and Club members the Browns are determined to see it. Here we catch up with them about their unforgettable Canadian tour

Lorraine Brown and her husband Michael recently returned from a dream Canadian tour organised by the Club. Their holiday included the likes of husky sledding, white water rafting, careering down mountains on bikes, cruising through Alaska and spotting bears in the Rocky Mountains. But their incredible experience very nearly stalled at the outset...

The couple had decided to take the plunge and book a bespoke, 31-day independent motorhome tour of Canada with their friends after spotting information in a Club brochure. However, a change in circumstances meant that their would-be companions were reluctantly forced to pull out, leaving the

Browns agonising over whether to go ahead on their own. Fortunately, they made the right decision, as their Canadian adventure turned out to be simply unforgettable. Lorraine, 62, and Michael, 70, admit that things could have been different but for the support and guidance of the Club’s specialist Worldwide team.

“We had a little bit of spare money and decided we wanted to take a big trip,” says Lorraine. “We saw the Canada tour advertised in one of your brochures and it looked amazing as you get to see so many tick-box things.

“It is a lot of money but at our age we were of the opinion that ‘it’s a big world

– so you have to get out there and see it’. We were all very excited but then our friends couldn’t make it anymore, which left us sitting on the fence over whether to go ahead by ourselves.

“Fortunately for us, Gemma at the Club was brilliant. She reassured us and took care of everything. We didn’t have to worry about anything as it was all arranged for us.

“Until you do a trip like this you don’t really appreciate how much there is to organise, and the Club did it all. It can seem a bit daunting taking on such a big trip on your own at our age but I’m so glad we did and would encourage others to give it a go, too.”

When you are planning it you think, ‘Is it going to work?’, but it really did.

“It is tailor-made for you, very much bespoke. The fact we booked so far in advance meant we had the ability to tweak things and upgrade if we wanted to as well.”

The Browns, who have been Club members since buying their first motorhome in 2018, crammed so much into their 31-day expedition that Lorraine admits picking out a highlight is impossible.

“There were so many highlights,” she says. “The Rocky Mountaineer train ride was amazing and the fact we had already been hiking in the mountains made it even better.

“We hiked to Peyto Lake on a really beautiful day and saw so much. We watched bears – from a distance – and saw goats and marmots.

The Browns flew to Calgary to begin their tailor-made tour in late August and, after a night in a hotel, picked up their fully-equipped motorhome to begin a 17-day road trip westwards.

They travelled some 1,200 miles visiting places like Banff National Park, Jasper, Clearwater, Whistler and Victoria on their way to Vancouver. After exploring Vancouver Island, they embarked on a seven-day Alaska Inside Passage cruise. To cap a truly memorable trip they then took the Rocky Mountaineer train on a two-day journey from Vancouver to Banff before flying home from Calgary.

“Canada is one of those places that keeps on giving in terms of experiences and scenery,” Lorraine continues. “Every day was kind of like an adventure. You didn’t know where you would be going and what the campsite was going to be like.

“We used an app [Vamoos – a travel app, which can be used during the Club’s Worldwide tours] which tells you all about the area you are in and what you can see and do on your route. Sometimes there were not enough hours in the day to do it all!

“There was always something good to look forward to in terms of the itinerary.

“The boat for the Alaska cruise was great... In Juneau we did a musher’s tour where you were pulled on the snow by dogs and then got to meet all the puppies. There was white water rafting in Clearwater and flying down a mountain in the Yukon Pass on bikes.

“We wanted to give everything a go as we are probably never going to have the chance to do it again. Then again, we were literally talking the other night about doing the Savannah, Safari & Falls trip with the Club as we had such an amazing time.”

WORLDWIDE TOURS

The Browns enjoyed a bespoke Canadian holiday organised by the Club but we run numerous trips with set itineraries, including escorted tours, during which you are accompanied by experienced hosts throughout. For more information on tours in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and southern Africa, please see camc.com/worldwide

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 and have ABTA and ATOL bonded financial protection. Find out more at camc.com/ wwconfidence

ˆCovers holiday cancellations in line with FCDO advice. T&Cs apply.

DONT FORGET

■ 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. If you combine a crossing with a campsite stay you also benefit from package travel protection – see camc.com/ overseaspackages

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

Scan this QR code to book a European campsite or visit camc.com/overseas for more information.

New horizons

We’re working with new campsites in France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Denmark – where will 2025 take you?

Variety is the spice of life – and we’re pleased to announce that we’re working with 24 new European campsite partners in 2025! Denmark returns to the overseas network, while we add 11 French, four Spanish, four German, three Italian and one Swiss campsite to our 350-strong offering. Whether you are looking for a cultural getaway, a gastronomic escape or an actionpacked sporting holiday, we have the ideal venue. And from charming hidden gems to resort-like campsites offering a range of activities for all the family, you’ll be able to find the perfect destination for your getaway regardless of the size of your touring party.

Find out more at: camc.com/confidence

Remember that there are earlybooking offers on many of our sites –for more information visit camc.com/ earlybird – and that members benefit from discounts on LeShuttle and ferry crossings (camc.com/ferry-offers).

Below we take a look at some of the newest campsite destinations across the network. For the full line-up head to camc.com/neweuropeancampsites

FRANCE

Huttopia Pays de Cordes sur Ciel (Club ref: C58), Occitanie Boasting a lovely natural setting surrounded by hills, this is a great site for a relaxing, cultural getaway. The village of Cordes-sur-Ciel (main picture above) is less than two miles away –perfect for a day strolling the medieval streets and indulging yourself with local treats such as goat’s cheese or truffles. On site, guests benefit from a heated outdoor swimming pool, paddling pool and café.

Huttopia Lac de Carcans (Club ref: A51), Nouvelle-Aquitaine

If you’re into watersports, swimming, cycling and other outdoor activities, this is the campsite for you. Interspersed with the tall pine trees of the Bombannes forest and offering direct access to Lake Carcans-Hourtin, the site also offers a cafe serving home-made pizza, a playground, swimming pool and more. If you can tear yourself away, take time to explore

the Médoc’s unspoiled landscapes, rich wine heritage and grand châteaux.

Camping Le Lac de Thoux (Club ref: C59), Occitanie Le Lac de Thoux offers peace and quiet in a beautiful lakeside and wooded park setting. While this is a great place to unwind, families will love the waterpark and leisure complex, while food lovers can enjoy local, traditional Gascon dishes at the restaurant. This site is also a great base for exploring the vibrant city of Toulouse, with its classic architecture and modern attractions such as the Cité de l’espace (Space City).

Camping Val André (Club ref: B45), Brittany

This small site is situated in the heart of the charming seaside town of Pléneuf-Val-André in the Côtes d’Armor department. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxing break by the sea – the beautiful sandy beach is only 300m from the site, while the fishing port of Erquy or the characterful town of Guingamp are good day-trip options.

SPAIN

Camping Lago Barasona (Club ref: E64), Aragón

Les Grottes de Roffy (Club ref: D44), Nouvelle-Aquitaine Les Grottes de Roffy is a small campsite situated in the picturesque, hilly countryside of the Dordogne. Browse the medieval streets of Sarlat (about 5km away) or head farther afield to the prehistoric Lascaux caves or the Grotte de Rouffignac. Other options are a visit to the gardens of the Manoir d’Eyrignac or the impressive Château de Castelnaud.

Offering lovely views of the hills and the distant Pyrenees, this fairly large campsite is located just across the road from the shores of Lake Barasona. It features large, well-maintained, terraced pitches and boasts a bar/ restaurant, sports facilities, two swimming pools and a mini disco. Nature lovers will be adventure in the likes of the Sierra de Guara Natural Park and Ordesa and |Monte Perdido National Park.

Puerta de la Demanda (Club ref: E65), Castilla y León

Located in the Sierra de la Demanda mountain range, this charming, family-run campsite sits at the foot of the Úzquiza reservoir – making it a great spot for hiking, fishing and cycling. Guests benefit from large, flat, well-maintained grass pitches, while site amenities include a mini market, padel tennis court, sauna, swimming pool, bar, restaurant and terrace. Culture lovers will enjoy the archaeological sights of Atapuerca (17km away) and the impressive Burgos Cathedral.

GERMANY

Knaus Campingpark Bleckede (Club ref: G30), Lower Saxony

Set in extensive woodland in the Elbe Valley bio reserve, this is a great location for nature and outdoors enthusiasts. You could take a raft trip

through the reserve and discover the likes of storks, cranes, sea-eagles, swans, geese and beavers. The ‘Elbe Cycle Path’ passes close to the site, while you can discover idyllic villages with traditional architecture. The campsite is also a great stop-off en route to Hamburg or Denmark.

DoktorSee (Club ref: G29), Lower Saxony

This spacious campsite is set beside the Doktorsee lake. As well as having opportunities to paddle, row and sail on your doorstep, the likes of beach volleyball, table tennis, skittles and adventure golf are available, while the Weser cycling trail goes directly from the site up into the surrounding hills. This is a great campsite for a relaxing stop-over if you are on your way to Berlin, Hamburg, Czechia or Denmark.

Azur Camping Regensburg (Club ref: G31), Bavaria Set amid mature trees next to the attractive 40-hectare Donaupark, this campsite offers a blend of nature and city life on the banks of the Danube. Explore Regensburg’s cobbled streets, marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of St Peter’s Cathedral, and discover the ancient Roman and medieval treasures of this historic city.

DENMARK Riis Feriepark (Club ref: H11), Syddanmark

Members will receive a warm welcome from Vivi and Keld, the English-speaking owners at this family-run park in Jutland. Many will be drawn to the natural beauty of the sources of the Gudena and Skjern rivers, while the attractive, fjord-side cities of Vejle and Horsens are within easy reach. The site is ideally situated for day trips to attractions such as Legoland, Lalandia water park, the forested Wow Park in Billund with its giant tree top slide and high ropes course, and Givskud zoo and safari park.

Visit camc.com/ brochures to order free copies of (or simply download) our European campsites and escorted tours brochures.

BOOK AN ESCORTED EUROPEAN TOUR TODAY

Don’t miss out on the chance to join one of our European escorted tours in 2025. If you’re looking for an early season break, consider our seven-night Dutch Bulb Fields tour in April 2025. And music lovers won’t want to miss our popular Discover Maastricht and André Rieu holiday in July – it’s your chance to enjoy a magnificent concert led by the legendary musician, a city tour of Maastricht, dinner cruise on the River Maas and more! For more information head to camc.com/ european-tours.

1

Eifel-Camp

(Club Ref: G21)

Located on the edge of a lake that’s great for watersports in warmer weather. There’s an on-site bar and restaurant too.

Touring pitches: 209

Open: all year

Price: from £33.91 per night (based on an outfit, electric pitch and two adults). Based on 2024 prices – please check camc.com for the latest prices for 2025.

Food & drink

Freilinger Seebar, Am Freilinger

See 2, 53945 BlankenheimFreilingen

Contact: freilinger-see-bar.de, 0049 2697 390

Culture

Rotes Haus Monschau, Laufenstraße 10, 52156

Monschau

Contact: rotes-haus-monschau. de, 0049 2472 5071

Outdoor fun

Bicycle and canoe rental

Rurberg, Ginsterley 15, 52152

Simmerath, Rurberg

Contact: fahrrad-kanuverleihrursee.de, 0049 2473 2957

For the family

Wildpark Schmidt, Wildparkstraße 14, 52385

Nideggen-Schmidt

Contact: wildpark-schmidt.de, 0049 2474 215

Scan here to book a pitch at Eifel-Camp

COLD MOUNTAINS

Lee Davey heads for the Dolomites and enjoys a fantastic – if unusually chilly – winter break

Winter touring means different things to different people. For some, the colder months bring narrower horizons, with many choosing UK-based holidays until warmer weather returns. However, others view wintry destinations as an opportunity to hit the ski slopes or simply experience a popular region out of season.

As I discovered, a caravan or motorhome holiday is a brilliant way to explore colder climes. Our destination was the Dolomites, a

mountain range in north-eastern Italy, forming part of the Southern Limestone Alps. With the highest peaks topping 10,000ft, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is understandably popular with skiers, snowboarders and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Our plan was to pack our winter gear into our motorhome, cross the Channel on LeShuttle and head for Caravan Park Sexten in the heart of the mountains, stopping en route in Germany. The weather changed just an hour from Calais, with snow falling in places that hadn’t seen any in years. However, our winter tyres earned their stripes, and we made good progress. (To read more about requirements when touring abroad

during winter, please see the Club website at camc.com/overseaswinterequipment.)

Germany’s Eifel-Camp is located close to Eifel National Park in a rural setting next to Lake Freilingen (the world-famous Nürburgring motorsports circuit is about half an hour’s drive away). Unfortunately on this occasion our itinerary left little time to explore the area, but it’s safe to say it is perfect for off-season walks followed by mugs of hot chocolate back on site.

One local attraction that looks particularly interesting is Kasselburg Eagle and Wolf Park. The 12th-century castle is home to numerous birds of prey, whose aerial skills can be

2 Caravan Park Sexten

(Club ref: Y03)

Exceptional facilities, while the location grants easy access to nearby ski slopes.

Touring pitches: 249

Open: all year

Price: from £40.52 per night (based on outfit, serviced pitch and two adults, for stays 6-31 Jan, 9 Mar-17 Apr, 4-28 May, 12-30 Oct, 2 Nov-4 Dec and 8-23 Dec in 2025). Correct as of 8 Nov 2024 –check camc.com for latest prices. A minimum stay of three nights applies all year

Food & drink

Patzenfeld Restaurant, Caravan Park Sexten, Via San Giuseppe, 54, I-39030 Sesto

Contact: caravanparksexten.it, 0039 474 710444

Culture

witnessed during special displays, as well as the largest half-wild wolf pack in Europe. I’ve made a note to revisit when time allows.

From Eifel-Camp we embarked upon the long journey south to Caravan Park Sexten.

Upon arrival we discovered that it was festooned with icicles, the snow crisp underfoot. As we made our way to the pitch, many folks were ‘clipping in’ before skiing across the campsite towards nearby slopes. A snow chain-equipped JCB cleared the snowfall – in stark contrast to the ride-on lawnmowers we see on sites in summer back home. Having an appalling sense of balance, I didn’t plan to ski from dawn to dusk, so I

Museum Rudolf Stolz, Via Dolomiti, 16b, 39030 Sesto (BZ) Contact: museumrudolfstolz.eu, 0039 349 7169126

Outdoor fun

3 Zinnen Dolomites ski resort (115km of slopes)

Contact: dreizinnen.com, 0039 474 710355

For the family

Dolomythos museum, Via PP Rainer 11, 39038 San Candido Contact: dolomythos.com, 0039 474 913462

Scan here to book a pitch at Caravan Park Sexten

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

Find out more at: camc.com/confidence

“ Six inches of snow fell shortly after our arrival ”

was pleased to find that the campsite also catered for those who prefer a slower pace. The indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna and hot tubs complex was the perfect place in which to relax – there is an extra charge, but it was €14 well spent.

’SNOW BIG DEAL

An unusually deep six inches of snow fell shortly after our arrival, and overnight temperatures dropped to a remarkable -20˚C (‘only’ -10˚C was predicted). Thankfully, beefy electric supplies are routed to each pitch and, combined with the motorhome’s diesel heating and Grade III insulation, we were soon feeling toasty.

Driving through the Dolomites in wintry conditions was surprisingly easy, even though the daytime ‘highs’ were as low as –7˚C. The mountain roads were completely free of snow and ice; in fact, conditions were so good that a classic car rally passed as we enjoyed elevenses in a lay-by. The cavalcade of Porsche 356s, Volvo Amazons and early Alfas was a testament to the snow-clearing ability of the Italian authorities. It’s also worth noting that the bus service continued to run regardless of the weather.

After a morning of sightseeing, we spent the afternoon relaxing, hopping from the hot tub to the outdoor pool to the poolside recliner, from

where we made our evening plans. The on-site restaurant is exceptional, but with pizza calling, we drove a few minutes into town to the excellent Pizzeria Ristorante Erich. Talking of food, while you are in this part of the world, be sure to try ‘Tris di Canederli’ – a trio of dumplings made from stale bread soaked in milk, eggs and combined with the likes of ham, cheese or spinach.

Again, time for sightseeing was short – but history buffs visiting during the summer months may be interested to know that, just over 20 minutes’ drive from Caravan Park Sexten lies the Bunker Museum. Construction of the fortification here began during the Second World War but was not completed until 1950 when it became part of NATO defence plans during the Cold War.

Our whistle-stop tour lasted just a week but proved to be the perfect winter holiday. Caravans and motorhomes make these sorts of trips much more affordable, and transporting skis and snowboards in them is straightforward too. And, of course, whether you own a motorhome, campervan or caravan, the ever-changing view from the window will always be unbeatable.

■ If Lee has inspired you to visit the region, please visit camc.com/overseas to book the featured campsites and see other options.

Explore Europe in 2025

More… European campsites than any other UK touring club

Whether you’re looking for a winter escape or summer break, Europe is the ideal destination for your next touring adventure. Choose from over 350 Club-approved European campsites and enjoy fantastic savings. Members save up to 10% on ferry and tunnel crossings, plus, with our Lowest Price Guarantee*, if you find a cheaper fare for the same campsite or crossing, we’ll match it!

SAVE WITH YOUR CLUB

Collectively, members saved in excess of £13.5m* over the past six years using Member Offers! To kick off 2025, we’re offering fantastic discounts to help you enjoy the great outdoors and tackle those new year’s resolutions!

*Based on Jan 2019 to Oct 2024

RUNNERS NEED

Boasting more than 60 stores across the UK, Runners Need is the kit specialist to help regardless of distance, style or terrain. Working with quality brands providing kit that is designed to last, Runners Need also provides expert services such as in-store gait analysis and electronics advice. Members save 15% in store and online at Runners Need – find out more at camc.com/runnersneed.

15%

The Ramblers is 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 England, Scotland, and Wales. Discover new walking opportunities and help boost your wellbeing!

Membership includes:

■ A welcome pack and a quarterly Walk magazine

■ Access to a library of thousands of tried-and-tested

10%

SNOW+ ROCK

CYCLING UK THE RAMBLERS

Club members can save 50% on the price of a new membership with Cycling UK!

By joining this UK-wide community you’ll receive exclusive benefits, discounts and expert advice and information.

Cycling UK membership benefits:

■ £10m third party liability insurance

■ Discounts on brands including

Ordnance Survey and Freewheel

■ Award-winning magazine, Cycle, delivered to your door every eight weeks

■ Legal incident line from Cycle SOS

■ Exclusive member events and first-look at new routes

routes, available both online and via an app

■ Unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks, guided by a walk leader along safe, accessible routes

■ Savings on walking gear, gadgets and more through exclusive discounts from partners of The Ramblers

Club members benefit from a 10% saving on membership of The Ramblers. Find out more at camc.com/ramblers

■ Ride with hundreds of memberonly groups around the UK

You can find out more at camc.com/cyclinguk

Whether you’re a hiker, mountaineer, skier or snowboarder, Snow+Rock champions top quality snow and outdoor brands designed to perform in the wild landscapes you love. The company offers one-to-one appointments and personalised advice from dedicated outdoor and snowsports gear specialists, encourages its community to select gear that lasts, champions planet-friendly brands and provides Recycle My Gear services that keep kit out of landfill. Club members save 15% at Snow+Rock – find out more at camc.com/ snow+rock.

15%

PADDLE UK

As a member of the Caravan and Motorhome Club, you can save 10% on an ‘On the Water’ membership package with Paddle UK (new memberships only). On the Water membership provides all of the following for the equivalent of £5 per month:

■ A Waterways Licence to paddle on over 4,500km of waterways

10%

■ Public liability insurance cover, plus discounts on craft insurance

■ Exclusive discounts on paddle gear and at a range of high street retailers

■ E-newsletter featuring regular top tips and inspirational ideas

Find out more at camc.com/paddleuk

OUTDOORACTIVE

Outdooractive is a walking, hiking, cycling and outdoor app helping you plan, track, and share activities. The basic app is free to use, but Club members benefit from a €10 discount on Pro or Pro+ first-year subscriptions. Outdoor enthusiasts can browse through thousands of route suggestions, plan routes with just a few clicks, easily navigate from A to B with speech output, track trips and view details such as duration, distance, elevation gain and more. 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. Find out more at camc.com/outdooractive.

20%

10

BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION

Caravan and Motorhome Club members can enjoy their first year of Butterfly Conservation membership for free and be part of a community committed to nurturing the beauty of butterflies and moths. By joining you will be:

■ Championing Conservation: become a vital part of a community committed to protecting butterfly and moth populations and their habitats.

■ Committing to a Better Planet: Joining Butterfly Conservation is your pledge to play an active role in the preservation of biodiversity.

Member benefits:

■ A welcome pack in the post.

■ Essential advice on gardening for butterflies and moths.

■ Butterfly magazine three times a year, packed with fascinating features and stunning photos.

SURFING ENGLAND

Members of the Caravan and Motorhome Club can save 20% on Surfing England Membership fees, including: Adult, Young Person, Junior, Joint, Family, and Surf Coach Membership packages. Surfing England Memberships start at just £18 a year and offer a range of fantastic benefits for surfers and ocean enthusiasts at all levels. Disciplines recognised are all forms of surf from handplaning and bodysurfing to bodyboard, shortboard, longboard, and stand up paddleboard. Membership benefits include:

■ Monthly e-newsletter with the latest news, info and offers.

■ Membership of your local branch, with regular newsletters, invitations to conservation action days and social events.

You can find out more by visiting camc.com/butterflyconservation

■ Insurance – surf safe in the knowledge that you are insured with Public Liability and Personal Accident cover anywhere in the world, including new wave pool facilities such as The Wave, Bristol. Insurance also covers SUP on rivers, lakes, and other bodies of flat water, as well as in the ocean. Independent Surf Coaching insurance also available with Enhanced Surf Coach Membership

■ Retail and brand discounts – includes 10% off at dryrobe

■ Surf magazine discounts: save 10% on subscriptions to Carve or SurfGirl and at the online stores for these brands

Find out more at camc.com/ surfingengland

Scan this QR code with your phone or tablet to see all of our current Member Offers

Butchers , BAKERS and cocktail makers

INFORMATION

The 2025 Abergavenny Food Festival is being held on 20-21 September 2025). Contact: abergavenny food festival.com

Club campsites: Pandy; Tredegar House Country Park

Inset top: Jonathan treats himself to a tasty burger

Below: Meera Sodha on the Market Hall Stage at Abergavenny Food Festival

Food festivals showcase mouth-watering produce, cooking demos and celebrity chefs, as Jonathan Manning discovered in Abergavenny

Britain has become a nation of food obsessives. The bestseller charts are full of cookery books, chefs are so famous they are recognisable by their first names – Delia, Jamie, Gordon – and as soon as MasterChef finishes its epic run of 24 episodes, it’s time to switch channels and watch Paul and Prue judge soggy bottoms.

But food isn’t just a spectator sport. The number of gourmet festivals in the UK is mushrooming, and whether you’re vegan,

vegetarian or carnivore, or your palate’s sweet-toothed or spicy, there’s an event to whet your appetite. These gatherings offer seemingly endless opportunities to sample, savour, munch and crunch a feast of flavours.

From the Kent coast to the Brecon Beacons and the banks of Loch Lomond, food festivals celebrate the best of local ingredients and international cuisine. And with their chef demonstrations and talks, they offer far more than the monthly farmers’ markets that pop up along high streets. They’re a chance to pick up tips, taste the exotic and fill your bags with produce that you’d never find in a supermarket. And when afternoon turns to evening, there’s often music and dancing, fuelled by local brewers, distillers and street food stands.

All of which brings me to Abergavenny in Monmouthshire in September, along with an estimated 20,000 other people, for one of the most popular weekend food festivals on the calendar. Alongside the butchers, bakers and cocktail makers are 190 stalls selling everything from meads to curries. Celebrity chefs and restaurant critics rub shoulders with food entrepreneurs, wine experts and more.

The festival presents food as a story and social experience, as much as sustenance. There are moving accounts of how food reconnects people to different lands, food that helped with mental health, and food that’s kinder to the environment – all we are saying is ‘Give (chick) peas a chance!’

The early visitor gets the samples, and I enjoy an eclectic breakfast as I peruse the stalls:

These events offer endless opportunities to sample, savour, munch and crunch a feast of flavours

artisanal chorizo, dark chocolate, Cornish peanut butter, bread slathered in olive oil, and chocolate brownie, all washed down with a thimble of Welsh whisky and a delicious sip of mead, made in the traditional way from fermented honey. It all makes for an unorthodox, yet mouthwatering, start to the day, before I take out my wallet and buy an enormous cinnamon bun and a very fine coffee.

Produce on almost every stall is decorated with the Great Taste Award logo, a sure-fire indication of drool-inducing loveliness, albeit with fairly tasty prices. Magnificent-looking wheels of Caws Teifi Caerphilly cheese cost four times per kilo what I would normally pay for Cheddar in a supermarket; £7.25 Coedcanlas marmalades are presented in jars fit for high-end cosmetics; and £7 bars of Mayhawk chocolate are stacked in boxes that look more like works of art than packages.

Artisan food is expensive to produce. These aren’t high-volume goods manufactured by huge companies making a few pennies’ profit per unit

– they’re very carefully crafted specialities. The Caerphilly cheese, for example, is made with locally sourced, organic, raw (unpasteurised) milk that’s rich in good bacteria, while the Mayhawk chocolate comes in a range of fascinating flavours, including basil, tomato and black olive. There’s extraordinary variety, too, at the street food stalls outside, where dining options range from Nigerian stew to Taiwanese steamed bao buns, soft-shell crab, paella, pulled pork, beef and lamb, and pizza. I opt for a Beefy Boys burger. It may cost £11.50 but it is the most delicious burger I can remember eating – an indulgent combination of juicy patty, sharp gherkin, American cheese, ketchup and mustard. I look like a toddler eating spag bol for the first time as the juices drip down my chin.

SHOW AND TELL

Between the samples, the feasting and the shopping, there are exhilarating talks and demonstrations. Dina Macki talks about her

Omani and Zanzibari heritage, while making a Scotch egg using lamb and the herbs and spices from those regions. Guardian columnist Meera Sodha explains the science between steaming and frying food as she rustles up an intriguing dish of aubergine, celery, red peanuts and chilli, before sharing how the power of cooking helped to restore her mental health during a difficult time. “Cooking dinner every day made me feel grounded and gave me a sense of achievement,” she tells the audience.

Sustainability is a powerful and consistent theme throughout the festival. Luxury ready meals guru Charlie Bigham, for example, reveals that the wooden food trays in which his food is served are made from a sustainable poplar forest in France, the fast-growing timber being low in resin and therefore suitable for food. Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, meanwhile, is a long-time advocate of sustainability. The BAFTA-winning broadcaster has a host of anecdotes about his life in the countryside, including one about a lizard that he took to school in a Tupperware box, but underlying it all is a profound respect for nature and seasonal produce.

Left:

Max Halley on the Cooking Over Fire Stage at the festival

Right: varieties of olives, gherkins and more on sale

TASTY CHOICES

Three more food festivals to look forward to across the UK

Big Feastival, Oxfordshire Mouth-watering produce mixes with great music on the Cotswolds farm owned by Alex James of Blur fame (22-24 August 2025).

Info: thebigfeastival.com

Stay: Moreton-in-Marsh Club Campsite

Broadstairs Food Festival, Kent

Spend the Easter weekend (18-20 April 2025) at this free festival that celebrates the local area’s food and drink producers. Info: broadstairsfood festival.org.uk

Stay: Black Horse Farm Club Campsite

Shrewsbury Food Festival, Shropshire

A two-day showcase of fine local food and drink, with chef talks and demonstrations plus live music (28-29 June 2025).

Info:shrewsburyfood festival.co.uk

Stay: Love2Stay AS (pictured), Lady Margaret’s Park Club Campsite

While the bigger names draw bigger crowds, I also pick up useful tips at the smaller stages, especially the ‘Cooking over Fire’ feature in the grounds of Abergavenny Castle. Sam and Shauna, stars of the BBC’s Sam and Shauna’s Big Cook-Out , recommend immersing meat and chicken in a 2% salt brine solution for 24 hours to keep it moist before cooking over flames, and emphasise the importance of using good wood or charcoal (“Not petrol station or DIY store stuff”) to avoid chemicals tainting flavours. As a food festival novice, I’m slow to catch on that Sam will serve up the three giant tomahawk pork steaks she’s grilling, alongside an apple and blackberry jus, and butterbean and kale side, so find myself at the back of the queue and empty-handed when the samples are shared.

But I’m a quick learner and in pole position to try the epic sandwich conjured up by Max Halley, of Max’s Sandwich Shop in north London, and a regular on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch. Max is hugely entertaining, insisting that ‘sandwich’ is a verb (“Sorry Scandinavians, but that’s just stuff on bread!”), and describing how the perfect sarnie is “an orchestra of ingredients all singing together – sweet and sour, hot and cold, soft and crunchy”. The secret to a good sandwich is a liberal attitude to mayonnaise, he adds, squeezing the contents of a large bottle into a tuna, onion, oregano and olive oil mix that he then smothers onto a toasted ciabatta, before filling the sandwich with hot, barbecued pork, slices of beef tomato and crushed crisps for a crunchy bite. It’s a sublime mouthful from a fabulous festival.

Unwind on one of our escorted tours

We’re excited to o er over 20 organised escorted caravan and motorhome tours for 2025 with prices from £1,199* for two people, giving you the chance to enjoy European wine regions, historic towns and cities, scenic boat trips, visits to stunning national parks and much more.

Our tours are carefully created with you in mind to include a balance of organised excursions and free time, all with friendly tour hosts close at hand throughout the duration of your holiday for peace of mind.

Plus, 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?

STAR Turn

James

Batchelor takes an in-depth look at a strong performer in our Towcar of the Year competition

OTo 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.

ne electric vehicle with which we’ve been mightily impressed is the Polestar 2 – in fact, both the Long Range Single Motor and Dual Motor versions have picked up awards in recent Towcar of the Year competitions. Let’s take a more in-depth look at the latter.

While some carmakers have dipped their toes into the world of electric cars in recent years while still selling a range of petrol and diesel models, Swedish brand Polestar is all-out electric (putting aside its ultra-exclusive plug-in hybrid coupe called Polestar 1).

Up until 2024 and the launch of the larger ‘3’ SUV and ‘4’ coupe-SUV, it was the Polestar 2 that solely propelled the brand (whose parent company is Volvo) in the electric car space. It’s chiefly known as the first true rival to the mighty Tesla Model 3, and while more car brands have joined this mid-sized saloon/hatchback market, the Polestar 2 arguably still manages to cut a more premium, aspirational character.

The Swedish firm gave the 2 a mid-life update in 2023, with the only real exterior modification being to the ‘grille’, replacing the earlier black one with a

sleeker, body-coloured version that featured a ‘SmartZone’. It’s a panel that hides the car’s radar and sensors for the advanced safety features, which also heats in winter to allow the tech to work should it be covered in snow.

Under the skin the changes were far more comprehensive. The 2 shares a platform with the Volvo XC40, and when the electric version of that car switched from front- to rear-wheel drive, so did the Polestar 2. It promoted a more engaging driving experience (with the dual motor four-wheel drive models also getting a more rear-biased power set-up), but more importantly brought big efficiency gains.

COMFORT

Polestar hasn’t played with the interior, however. The cabin looks as good as it did when the 2 launched four years ago, trumping its key rivals both in terms of quality and functionality. As is the norm now, the vast majority of the car’s features are controlled via the 11in touchscreen and, while that would normally draw criticism from me, there are two reasons why I’m not moaning. Firstly, the menus are all simply laid out, the typography is beautiful and the icons (mostly) are bold. Secondly, and more importantly,

the operating system is Google-based, so it works quickly and hand-in-hand with Google Maps and Google’s voice command system – both of which are a cinch to use.

The interior is packed with great design touches (the Polestar logo projected onto the standard-fit glass roof is a favourite) and everything is vegan-friendly (although animal welfare-traced Nappa leather can be had as an option), but you may wonder about space. A Tesla Model 3 feels more airy while the Volkswagen ID.7 has lots more knee room (you can blame the 2’s hump in the floor for a lot of this – a downside to the car pinching the XC40’s platform).

The boot, though, is of a decent size; the boot divider that flips up to separate items even features hooks on which you can hang shopping and bags. Desirable options are neatly packaged in bundles. The Climate Pack is worth the £900 Polestar charges as it adds heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel and headlight nozzles, as well as a heat pump – the latter crucial to eke out the car’s range if you’re towing in winter months. A partially electrically deployable towbar is a surprisingly pricey £1,200, while the maximum towing capacity is 1,500kg.

DRIVING

Regardless of which model you go for, the ride is a little on the firm side. Go for the Pro pack or Performance pack with their 20in wheels and adjustable Öhlins suspension, and things improve somewhat. But a firm ride translates into decent body control, and when you’re towing, a very settled outfit.

The steering may not be the sharpest, but this is an easy car to drive. In Dual Motor Performance set-up, the car absolutely flies – it has 469bhp and 0-62mph takes four seconds. The simpler Long Range Dual Motor, tested here, makes do with ‘just’ 416bhp, which translates into a 0-62mph sprint time of 4.3 seconds. Compared with the Volvo XC40 Recharge/EX40, the power feels better deployed and more suited to a lower-to-the-ground hatchback than an SUV. It’s a very pleasant car to drive, if a little noisy on the motorway.

TOWING

If you need four-wheel drive then this Long Range Dual Motor is the pick, but if you can do without then the Long Range Single Motor could be the better option as Polestar says it has a range of over 400 miles (when driving unhitched).

Clockwise from top left: smart cabin with 11in touchscreen; sleek gear selector; folding towbar with electric release; the Polestar 2 boasts impressive acceleration; rear seats can be heated if you have the optional Climate Pack

Photography

by

Nathan Morgan

TECHNICAL

Price as tested:

£54,950 Insurance: 44 Engine:

82kWh battery (net), twin electric motors

Power:

416bhp (310kW)

Torque:

740Nm (546 Ib ft)

Transmission:

1-speed

Spare Wheel:

Tyre inflation kit

Kerbweight:

2,258kg

Gross Vehicle Weight:

2,600kg

Gross Train Weight:

4,100kg

Towing Limit:

1,500kg

Noseweight Limit: 90kg

Towing Equipment:

Folding towbar with electric release (£1,200)

Fuel/Test Econ:

Electric/3.5m/kWh (solo)/1.7m/kWh (towing 1,500kg trailer)

CO2 : 0g/km

NCAP Rating: 5 stars

Figures from manufacturer’s literature

Towcar judges were hugely impressed by its turn of speed and how it deployed its power

If you can forgo the extra traction that comes with dual motors, then the rear-driven single motor car really is the natural choice when you bear in mind how towing affects electric range. In normal, unhitched driving in early autumn, I found the Long Range Dual Motor could easily manage 3.5 miles per kWh (or 28.3kWh/100mi) which equates to 273 miles (note that Polestar says this model can do 344-369 miles). In a test carried out separately from this review, I got 1.7 miles per kWh, or 133 miles, towing a regular 1,500kg trailer. When you do the sums, going for the model that has a stated 400-plus miles of solo range makes sense.

This very car was used in the 2025 Towcar of the Year competition, and the judges were hugely impressed by its turn of speed and how it deployed its power. When towing a 1,500kg caravan, it’s incredibly smooth and feels very balanced, with very little tugging from the rear end.

There were a couple of practical niggles related to towing. Firstly the wing mirrors; while nicely designed, they are unusual in that they operate in a different fashion from most mirrors on cars.

When adjusting, the whole mirror moves rather than the glass. There’s no bezel, so the only towing mirrors that can be attached are ones that fix by suction to the glass, therefore rendering the main glass unusable. Secondly, the car’s sloping roofline and chunky C-pillar means reversing when hitched is a little trickier than it could be.

VERDICT

The Polestar 2 is a very likeable car – it’s stylish, feels classy, is good to drive and can travel long distances unhitched before needing to be topped up with electricity. It’s also a great towcar – stable and very refined. It’s not perfect but we are big fans. Send us proof of

TECHNICAL

MRO

1,515kg

MTPLM

1,670kg

Internal length

19ft (5.8m)

Overall length

24ft 5in (7.46m)

Motorised mover?

Yes Warranty

Six months’ parts and labour

With thanks to:

Featured caravans were on sale at John Wicks Caravan Sales, 145 Lynn Road, Grimston, Norfolk PE32 1AG. For current stock, please see johnwickscaravans. com or call 01485 601212)

SPOILED FOR

CHOICE

Prices appear to be lowering and variety increasing in the second-hand tourer market. Rob McCabe uncovers a tantalising trio of used caravans at his local dealer

2013 Coachman Pastiche 525/4 £12,995

If you want an example of the work of a caravan designer who is at the top of their game, look no further than this lovely outfit.

From the outside, it looks pretty much like any other handsome single-axle model. But inside, you’re greeted by an ingenious layout that includes an amazing double-L-shape centre kitchen, with the cooker facing forwards.

Behind the kitchen is a proper entrance ‘hallway’ with coat hooks and shoe storage, while there are two fixed single bunks over in the offside rear corner.

On the nearside is a wonderfully spacious rear washroom with separate shower cubicle.

In fact, throughout the interior, it’s a bit like looking at an estate agent’s wide-angle-lens photo, where the space looks bigger than it actually is. And any estate agent would have an easy time writing up the description of this example: it has clearly been looked after, featuring flawless, unmarked furniture everywhere and reassuringly gleaming kitchen appliances. The welcoming lounge is in perfect condition, with sumptuous upholstery that has retained its as-new plumpness. Same goes for the bunks – indeed, I strongly suspect the top one has never been used at all.

Not only do the bunks have their own curtain, but that entire area can

be closed off with a concertina blind; and the fact it’s tucked away out of sight behind the kitchen wall means it really has the feeling of being a completely separate room.

It’s a Pastiche, so standard equipment includes such desirables as Al-Ko ATC, a very good Pioneer stereo, exterior barbecue/mains sockets, a concealed fitted microwave and an Omnivent extraction fan; this one also has a motorised mover fitted. The only slight letdown is cosmetic: the alloy wheels look a bit scruffy and would benefit from a refurb.

VERDICT

A design triumph – and this one is a lovely example that looks great value at under £13k.

2008 Sterling Eccles Opal

£7,495

First impressions are of a caravan that looks much, much younger than its 2008 vintage. The unmarked woodwork looks lovely, the appliances are spotless, and the upholstery in the bright, attractive lounge is fresh and unmarked. The only slight issue is that some of the veneer edging tape is lifting away in a few places – it’s not glaringly obvious, though, and is certainly not a deal breaker.

In fact, the presence of that island rear bed – still the most in-demand item in a caravan layout – in a caravan costing just £7,500 is highly likely to be a deal maker. It’s a terrific bedroom, too: sunroof, illuminated mirror in the corner, TV shelf and connectivity, bedside storage cubbies, plenty of storage – and the mattress feels like it has lost none of its integrity. Lifting up the bedbase reveals the loose-fit carpet sections

2004 Elddis Odyssey 482

£4,295

We were just four years into the new millennium when this two-berther rolled off the production line. Although the interior styling dates it somewhat, this impressive Elddis has shrugged off its two decades of life in fine style. The red/beige colour scheme is actually rather pleasant, and the loose-fit carpeting in the correct Moorland Green looks to me like a recent replacement – it’s pristine.

This is a great example of a caravan that, for very little initial outlay, comes with everything you need for comfortable, fuss-free touring: heating, hob plus separate oven and grill, two TV viewing points, separate shower cubicle, exterior mains and barbecue sockets, pre-installation for a microwave, and, hey, even a cocktail cabinet. It’s also relatively lightweight and is just over 7ft wide, making it an easy tow on narrower roads and tuck-yourtummy-in CL farm tracks.

all neatly rolled up – and in perfect condition as far as I could tell.

As a note of interest, the previous owner has left behind a modest but clever addition: there’s a 12V double USB adaptor in the socket by the TV shelf, at a stroke bringing the caravan’s connectivity in line with more recent models. Replacing that with one that also offers USB-C would make it especially cutting-

edge. It’s a likeable little £10 upgrade, although I’m sure most would-be buyers will be rather more taken with the motorised mover the previous owner also saw fit to add.

VERDICT

Near-spotless condition, a mover, the layout everybody wants… it won’t be on the forecourt for long.

There’s no mover on this one, so see what you can do when negotiating the deal!

Unsurprisingly, the 20-year-old appliances show some signs of use, but they’re good and clean – and every surface is totally blemish-free. That’s impressive. So too is the condition of the sofas (there are four lovely corners to flop back into), while they’re long enough to be used as single beds if you can’t be bothered making up the double.

The end washroom is enormous – easily big enough to merit being called a combined washroom/dressing room –and looks very smart at the same time.

VERDICT

At just over four grand and with a good six-month warranty as back-up, this is a real bargain.

Six months’ parts and labour

Six months’ parts and

Nick Harding offers his opinions on the Fusion 330 from Italian manufacturer McLouis

FUSION REACTION

It’s a bit of a British phenomenon, but we do love a big rear lounge, and that’s exactly what the Fusion 330 from Italian marque McLouis offers. What’s more, this 2025 version also features a second lounge –and both boast drop-down beds.

Fusion is a four-model line-up for the season ahead. The 330 here is the baby of the Fiat Ducato-based coachbuilt line-up, but it’s still a full four-berth. The starting price for 2025 is a pretty keen £77,495, and for that you get the 140bhp engine with six-speed manual transmission. Eight-speed automatic and 180bhp (auto only) are available as options, at £4,000 and £6,500 respectively.

BUILD QUALITY

McLouis’ bodywork is completely timber-free and boasts a tough GRP outer. The biggest selling point, however, is likely to be the switch to silver sides that are so much in vogue right now.

The vehicle is a bit wider for 2025, while the habitation door is on the UK nearside (not always the case with imports). There’s a garage storage area – complete with lashing points, nearside light and a mains socket – but its dimensions restrict it to the likes of outdoor furniture, barbecues, etc. Other premium features range from flush-fitting windows to alloy wheels and a 120W solar panel.

There’s a choice of chassis weights – 3,500kg, 3,650kg and 4,400kg. Even in standard 3,500kg guise, as here, there’s a decent enough 590kg payload.

DRIVING

It’s a relative rarity to be driving a coachbuilt motorhome based on Fiat’s Ducato these days, such is the influence of Ford. The 140bhp engine is a willing enough performer, although you can find yourself stirring the gears for inclines in an otherwise fuss-free drive.

Latest Fiat cabs are better equipped than ever, featuring electric parking brake, cruise control and limiter, digital display for the main instrument panel and more. McLouis also adds a rather sophisticated Pioneer infotainment

system that includes a colour reversing camera, alongside automatic air-conditioning and a wireless phone charger.

DAYTIME

There’s a real change from the outgoing 330 as far as the interior look is concerned. The floor is different, there’s a new composite material for some of the walls, locker doors have been changed (the catches remain particularly easy to operate), and the undersides of the beds feature a corduroyinspired fabric. There’s a feeling of more space, especially width, although in truth it’s grown by just 2cm across the bows. The rear lounge is

TECHNICAL

Price (as tested)

£77,495 OTR

Engine

2.2-litre, Euro 6d Power

140bhp (104kW) @ 3,500rpm

Torque

280lb ft (380Nm) @ 1,400rpm

Transmission

Six-speed manual, FWD

MRO

2,910kg MTPLM

3,500kg

User payload

590kg

Overall length

22ft 11in (6.99m)

Overall width (mirrors folded)

7ft 8in (2.33m)

Overall height

9ft 8in (2.95m)

Max internal height

6ft 9in (2.06m))

Fuel/tank/econ

Diesel/13.2gals (60 litres)/28-34mpg

Figures from manufacturer’s literature

To see more motorhome reviews, download the Digital Magazine from the App Store or Google Play. You can also read vehicle tests at camc.com/blog.

With thanks to: South West Motorhomes, Ilminster, Somerset Contact: southwest motorhomes.co.uk, 01460 57524

certainly roomy, featuring opening windows to its three sides. The seating is noticeably firm, which bodes well for long-term use. The table top is hinged and on a fixed pedestal leg, with full fore and aft as well as height adjustment. You can also watch television from here – there’s a bracket fitting for a flatscreen monitor and all the wiring and sockets are in place.

The front lounge is smaller, with an L-shaped rear seat as well as swivels for the cab seats, although the table dominates somewhat here.

Heating and hot water are from Truma’s Combi 6 system, with more blown air outlets than is typical.

NIGHT-TIME

The main bed is the double over the rear lounge –dimensions are 1.95m (6ft 5in) x 1.30m (4ft 3in) tapering to 1.10m (3ft 7in). It glides into position electrically and there’s a ladder to hook on for access. And then there’s a single bed (1.91m/6ft 3in x 0.81m/2ft 8in) over the front lounge – again with ladder access. Just note it does cut across the doorway. Both ladders stow in the garage, along with a panel to be added if you’re converting the rear seating into a single bed.

KITCHEN

Perhaps the one weak link in the Fusion 330 is its kitchen – mainly due to its lack of worktop space. The orientation of the two gas rings may not find favour, nor the splash panel, which doesn’t meet the worktop. There’s a combined oven and grill under the circular sink – some kind of cover for the latter would have helped with the worktop challenge. Storage is good, with a large, shelved overhead locker, metal shelf for smaller items, drawer that includes a slide-out cutlery tray, and two floor lockers.

WASHROOM

There’s a step up as you go into the washroom, where there is space for a cubicle with folding doors for showering. The removable wooden duckboard sits in a rather shallow footwell, but there are two plugholes to help with drainage. To the right of the swivel-bowl toilet, the fixed handbasin has generous proportions with pull-out tap to clip onto the ceiling as the showerhead. There’s no window, just a small rooflight for ventilation. Storage includes a high-level locker and a metal shelf. There’s a large wardrobe adjacent to the washroom.

DETAILS

One or two more mains sockets would be useful, but both lounges have a double USB portal, and the reading lamps on stalks for the double bed also feature one USB apiece. There’s plenty of interior lighting, especially as the underside of each drop-down bed features half a dozen downlighters. Storage includes lockers to the undersides of the main beds, too. Features such as a full flyscreen for the habitation door, central locking to all three doors, the opening overcab sunroof and floor carpet sections complete a very positive picture.

VERDICT

Despite a few negatives in the kitchen area, this McLouis is impressive in terms of overall specification and price.

You can insure this motorhome with the Club for £670.92 per year*. Please see camc.com/ insurance or call 0345 504 0334 for further details.

*Quote (correct as of 21 October 2024) is for the model tested worth £77,495 OTR with a Thatcham approved tracker fitted. Based on a 59-year-old male living in Kent, with a maximum no claims bonus (unprotected) coming from a vehicle of similar value/experience, who has no accidents, claims or convictions and keeps the vehicle on a drive, driving 3,000 miles a year, with a £650 damage, fire and theft excess. Subject to underwriting. The Club’s Motorhome Insurance is arranged for the Club by Devitt Insurance Services Limited, Insurance Brokers. Caravan and Motorhome Club is a trading name of The Caravan Club Limited. The Caravan Club Limited and Devitt Insurance Services Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

376k

Member families

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Caravan and Motorhome Club’s 2024 AGM was held at the Pavilion Suite, The Racecourse, Chester on 26 October. Here are the highlights…

Chair’s Report

Chair David Turner began by stating that 2023 had been a challenging year for the Club. With a trebling of energy bills, it was impossible to shield members from some unwelcome increases. However, the Club returned a satisfactory result financially and adapted to the changing circumstances well.

MEMBERSHIP

Membership recruitment was strong in the year with over 65,000 new households welcomed into the Club. We renewed a total of 317,000 existing member households – as a result we saw a small decline in the total number (over 376,000 at year end).

On sites, the weaker economy, higher costs of fuel, utilities and wages in particular dampened demand. Occupancy was around 15% lower than the previous year.

MAJOR WORKS

At Coed-y-Llwyn in North Wales, a major campsite redevelopment was carried out which included the demolition and rebuilding of the facility block. Works were completed in July 2023. The new block has solar PV panels which have proved successful over the last 12 months.

Also in Wales, at Pandy, a major project included an internal toilet block refurbishment and a small extension to the building to provide an inclusive bathroom. Works were completed at the end of July 2023.

At Daleacres in Kent, we progressed a project to install six new, solid wooden yurts, completing it in May 2023.

2,240

Certificated Locations

In Devon, at Dornafield, the existing water system was reconfigured to take the site off the borehole supply.

At Durham Grange we completed a project to extend the storage area by 36 bays and convert nine existing grass pitches to hardstandings.

GREEN TECHNOLOGIES

A major focus of the past year for the Estates team has been to increase green technology installations in major work developments. This includes photovoltaic panels on new and refurbished toilet blocks, air source heat pump space heating, heat recovery ventilation systems and more.

WI-FI

We continue to roll out full-fibre Wi-Fi and, in response to member feedback, we have introduced a free service across the network where Wi-Fi is available. By year-end more than 126 campsites had the service and this has recently reached 140. Members have the opportunity to purchase a faster premium service for large file downloads and streaming at 117 campsites.

ELECTRIC METERING

We launched a trial at Wyatt’s Covert Club Campsite near Denham, west

140

Campsites with free Wi-Fi service

of London, reducing the pitch price by the cost of typical consumption and metering the electricity used separately. This involved using an app for metering and payment. On average members saved £1 per night. In the meantime the Club campsite at Steamer Quay, which did not previously have electric hook-ups, has reopened after a major refurbishment and with metering of electricity.

CERTIFICATED LOCATIONS

The year started with 2,289 Certificated Locations (CLs) and ended with 2,240. The CL team opened 83 new CLs in 2023 and there were a further four reinstatements to the network. Countering this there were 132 closures, most typically due to owners’ personal reasons. We continued with meetings of the Certificated Locations Advisory Group. These provide a useful forum to discuss issues raised by the CL Representatives on behalf of owners in their regions.

£66k

saved by members on Experience Freedom bookings

EXPERIENCE FREEDOM

Experience Freedom glamping achieved its 2023 occupancy target. Members accounted for over a third of nights and saved a total of £66,000 in member discounts and offers.

COMMUNICATION

Our PR initiatives helped to produce more than 1,000 articles in published or broadcast media, reaching over 300m people, with a media value of £15.5m.

DIGITAL SAVINGS

In February we stopped automatically sending the Sites Directory and Handbook to newlyjoined members. Since then, 9,000 (16%) have requested a paper copy. The remaining 84% received the alternative Welcome Pack, including their first Club magazine. We stand to save at least £223,000 in production and postage costs in 2023 and 2024 combined. In June we stopped automatically sending physical membership cards on renewal. Since then, just 10% of renewing members have requested a physical card.

POP-UP CAMPSITES

To add pitch capacity for members we ran pop-up campsites – at Beaulieu in the New Forest and at Holkham Hall, Norfolk, in the summer of 2023.

TRAINING COURSES

Training courses were again popular with members and non-members. These courses give people a huge boost in confidence when towing or manoeuvring a larger vehicle or outfit.

CLUBFEST 2023

We staged our second ClubFest – a four-day event at Kelmarsh Hall in Northamptonshire. The event was a sell-out.

DIVISIONS, REGIONS AND CENTRES

In March, there were two Question Time events for members – a West Central Region event at the National Waterways Museum and a Home Counties Region Q&A at Silverstone racing circuit. In May, the South East Region hosted a Question Time at The Historic Dockyard Chatham and the year ended with the Irish Division hosting a members’ Question Time at Fota House & Wildlife Park.

We were delighted that Cumbria and North Lancashire Centres worked together to run a trial with a combined Committee and continued to run the rally programme for members. We are delighted that the two centres will officially merge in 2024 and continue offering great events.

AWARDS

We gained 5 stars from Defaqto for the quality of our Motorhome Insurance policy. Both Caravan Cover and Motorhome Insurance have achieved a 5* Trustpilot rating. Elsewhere, the Club’s Contact Centre won plaudits, we received a RoSPA Gold Award for Health and Safety in the leisure sector and Green Tourism bestowed a gold award upon the Club for the main office and three Club sites.

OVERSEAS TRAVEL

In 2023 more than 60,000 members crossed the Channel with the Club and collectively stayed for over 130,000 nights on the Club’s overseas network campsites. It was a record year for worldwide holidays with popular destinations including the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Elections/ Re-elections

■ President – The Earl of Leicester

■ Vice-President – Michael Drayton

■ Chair – David Turner

■ Vice-Chair – Mark Sinclair-Watson

■ Vice-Chair – John Lefley

■ Treasurer – Alison Woodhams

■ Executive Committee – Gordon Smart, Selwyn Cooper, Helen Drew, Graeme McKenzie

LOOKING FORWARD

We are finding 2024 to be as challenging as 2023. While Club membership recruitment and renewal numbers remain high, the Club faces significant headwinds with cost pressures. We have tried to reduce the cost of touring for members and have been able to lower the booking deposit, first from 20% to 10%, and more recently to just £5.

THANK YOUS

David finished by expressing his thanks to staff at head office and across the network. He also thanked fellow Club Officers, committee members and all who work tirelessly to support the Club. David also thanked his wife, Jan, for her support.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION

Following a governance review by the Club Treasurer, proposed changes to the Club’s Articles of Association were made as follows:

a) Terminology – it has been agreed that all references to Chairman should be changed to Chair, and that all other references should be non-gender specific.

b) Terms of Office for the roles of Chair and Treasurer – there will be an introduction of specified terms of office for these roles. Each is subject to three-yearly terms, and eligible for re-election twice, creating a maximum term of office of nine years.

c) Terms of Office for Executive Committee members – the term of office of three years will continue, with the introduction of a maximum period of four terms of three years to be served, ie a maximum of 12 years.

d) Initial appointment as Co-optee – a new Director may be co-opted to the Executive Committee for an initial term of one year, following which the decision will be taken as to whether they should be elected at the next AGM. The initial year will count towards the first full three-year term in office.

For more information please visit camc.com/about-us.

Treasurer’s Report

Alison Woodhams began by saying a big thank you to Christopher Macgowan, the previous Treasurer, for his wise counsel and for leaving the Club’s finances in such good shape.

[Looking back at 2023], we didn’t do too badly in the year where we were challenged by the weather and inflation – along with changes in the behaviour of our members choosing to book later.

The Club made solid progress and further strengthened its balance sheet. Membership remained robust and insurance and financial services continued to outperform our expectations.

The Club continued to invest in the site network and made further progress on its IT infrastructure and other investments to prepare it well for the future. The overall financial strength and liquidity of the Club remained strong and demonstrated again a high degree of resilience.

Revenue was up 5.4% year on year at £142m, producing a surplus of £4.5m.

Capital expenditure was appreciably lower year on year at

Director General’s Report

Club Director General Nick Lomas began by looking at touring vehicle trends in the UK. Sales of caravans continues to decline and for the first time on record, in 2023, the number of new motorhomes registered in the UK was greater than the number of caravans sold.

But there are only about 26,000 leisure vehicles of both types being sold by the main manufacturers in the UK each year. This is far below the number we would like to see if we want to continue to grow the Club.

The current boom is in campervan-style conversions which now account for about 20% of new members. The opportunity to welcome a diverse range of outfits like roof tents, pop-tops, and

£13m in the face of significant planning delays on our biggest projects. Unfortunately, planning issues made progress against our plans both slower and more expensive as inflation rates affected our cost estimates.

On the IT side there was further work on the booking system, changes to our payments systems to meet industry requirements and costs for migrating our data centre.

Closing cash of £54m was up £6m from 2022 due in large part to the reduction in capital expenditure.

EBITDA – earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation – reflects the Club’s

teardrop caravans is key to ensuring our sites are supported and well occupied. And Experience Freedom caters for those who love the outdoors and want an open-air holiday without owning a vehicle.

We looked at feedback about allowing members to pitch more flexibly. The key point is that, since most motorvan owners don’t need space for a car they prefer to use

“ The opportunity to welcome a diverse range of outfits is key to ensuring our sites are supported and well occupied ”

ability to generate cash because it excludes depreciation on our fixed assets, depreciation being a non cash accounting entry. EBITDA for the year was £19m.

REVENUE

Looking into 2023 in more detail, sites revenue remained level at £72m. Site occupancy was down around 15% at 2.1m site nights but pitch yields were higher at £30.10 a night versus £26.89 in 2022.

Membership numbers fell slightly in 2023, ending at just over 376,000 members. Subscription revenue was up slightly at £19m.

Insurance and Financial Services remain our second biggest revenue stream and ended the year up by £1m at £26m – a good overall performance despite a price freeze halfway through the year on caravan cover, which has continued through 2024.

Travel revenue of £21m, the biggest increase of the year at £6m more than 2022, was further evidence of increasing member confidence and eagerness to travel.

Despite another challenging year Marketing revenues remained steady at £4m.

Sites revenue in 2023

SURPLUS

Site surplus was £5m lower at £8m. With revenue flat, higher costs ate into the surplus. Staff costs were up £1.4m driven by the increase in national minimum wages and electricity costs were up £2.6m due to global economic factors. The next biggest cost item on sites is depreciation – up £0.7m reflecting prior year’s capital expenditure.

The membership surplus remained virtually the same.

Insurance and Financial Services had a strong year again maintaining the high surplus levels of the previous year at £12m despite high claim cost inflation of around 16%.

Travel performance continued to recover as our members ventured abroad again and achieved breakeven despite higher costs for ferries and overseas sites.

Marketing costs were subject to inflationary pressures like everything else and were up £0.9m.

National Crime Agency, and a number of regulatory bodies.

Number of leisure vehicles sold by main UK makers each year

more of the pitch for recreation or a larger awning. Trials were well received – in particular members now are asked to simply pitch between the pegs.

CYBER INCIDENT

In January 2024 the Club was the victim of a sophisticated criminal act. There was unauthorised access into some limited, non-transactional parts of Club systems for around just seven hours. We commissioned an investigation by specialist Cyber Security Experts who, in painstaking detail, investigated what was accessed; what, if anything, was exfiltrated (taken out of the Club); and what actions should be taken for prevention in future. We notified the Information Commissioner’s Office, Sussex Police and the

A small number of members with Red Pennant claims were affected, and staff and former staff data relating to pay and benefits did have some information accessed. All were contacted.

The Executive Committee has approved a managed 24/7 Security Monitoring Service with Endpoint Data Recovery, Identity Threat Detection and Response. This is all now in place. The ICO, Pensions Regulator and FCA asked a number of questions, but have now closed the case with no regulatory action.

SITE CHANGES

In 2023 we lost Northbrook Farm in Worthing from the network as the local authority wished to take the land back for housing purposes. Faced with ever-increasing costs and a gradual but sustained decline in occupancy at some smaller and less well-located sites on the network, we have reluctantly decided to retire them from the network. These include High Onn, Gwern-y-Bwlch, Ilfracombe, Dockray Meadow, Broomfield Farm,

Insurance & Financial Services surplus

Other income was boosted to nearly £5m in 2023 due to increased interest of £2.2m due to higher cash balances and high interest rates, and there were some one-off receipts of £2.3m.

Costs and provisions were broadly flat year on year at £26m, held down by tight cost management despite significant supplier and inflationary increases. Underlying costs were up c4.8% year on year, significantly lower than inflation levels. All this meant the Club overall surplus came in at £4.5m, slightly lower than in 2022.

OUTLOOK

Alison went on to look at how the Club is doing in 2024.

UK sites occupancy is remaining static rather than growing as we had hoped – we have taken measures to reduce some of our prices, implemented a series of promotions

Nunnykirk and Bromyard Downs. Some are on short leases and will be returned to their landlords. The remainder will be considered for repurposing or sale so that we can use the funds to expand the network and make improvements in more popular areas of the country.

and discounts and are keeping a tight control on our spend on sites.

The outlook remains strong for Insurance and Financial Services. We are seeing a surge in motorhome policies attracted by competitive pricing, as well as an innovative arrangement to provide caravan cover for ex-Saga policy holders now that Saga has exited the caravan insurance market.

Overseas Travel is doing well this year with booking levels relatively buoyant and now on a par with pre-pandemic levels.

Improving member service levels and modest growth remain on the agenda. As a members’ organisation, there are no dividends paid to shareholders, or expensive borrowing, and we are in the best possible position to confidently weather the challenges that face us, as we have successfully done through previous periods of financial pressure.

Alison concluded her report by thanking colleagues on the Finance and Management Committee, fellow members of the Executive Committee, and staff for their dedication in making our Club the success it is.

At Steamer Quay in Totnes this year and onwards, we will now operate the site all year round, and we will open Cirencester Park in the Cotswolds and Hawes in North Yorkshire over the winter season too. The newly acquired Lickpenny Matlock will be operated initially this way to review demand.

DEPOSITS

The purpose of introducing the deposit was to reduce speculatively made bookings and inconsiderate late cancellations.

Site season lengths and operating dates were individually assessed to align with changing demand levels and there was a rebasing of worked hours to match the numbers of arrivals and workload at each site.

By looking at the market we set the lowest amount – 20% – that we thought reasonable and well below other operators. The deposit system certainly worked – more than expected in fact, reducing speculative bookings and late cancellations and ensuring members do have plenty of

More details about the AGM, including a list of questions and answers from the meeting, can be found

opportunity to book. With this in mind, the Club has done its best to reduce financial barriers to booking, firstly lowering the deposit from 20% to 10% and more recently to just £5. The evidence seems to be that it’s not just the financial cost, but also the longer process of giving card details, that deters speculative or inconsiderate multiple bookings. The reductions have helped and more members are booking, and booking further ahead.

SAHARA CHALLENGE

Nick closed by talking about his experience of travelling to Morocco as part of the trip with Bailey to take caravans and motorhomes from the UK all the way to Africa. The adventure has inspired many members to want to visit the country and Nick was delighted that the overseas travel team had combined an escorted trip to Morocco with a stay in southern Spain as part of our winter sun programme for 2025.

CHILL FACTOR

Jane McGowan checks out some cold-weather kit

Salomon Essential Lightwarm Mid-Layer

Available in a wide range of colours and sizes, this slim-fit fleece for women will take the chill out of a winter’s day (a version designed for men is also available). Made from a stretchy and breathable polyester which ‘wicks away moisture’, the ‘Mid’ has been designed to keep you warm and comfortable whether you are pottering around the caravan site or need a warm layer as part of a hiking or skiing outfit. It features a full zip, high neck and reflective inserts, as well as three pockets – two for hand-warming and one at the chest.

RRP: £75

Sizes: XS-2XL

15%

Mountain Warehouse Polar Fleece Kids Base Layer Set

This two-piece set is available for children aged two to 13 years. Made using Mountain Warehouse’s ‘IsoTherm’ fabric, the items are designed for breathability and warmth. Worn as a base layer, they should help your youngster remain active no matter how chilly the day. Anti-pill and machine washable, they come complete with a two-year warranty.

RRP: £32.99 (available for £16.49 as this issue went to press). Members benefit from a 15% discount – see camc.com/ mountainwarehouse for details, terms and conditions.

Sizes: 2-3 yrs; 3-4 yrs; 5-6 yrs; 7-8 yrs; 11-12 yrs; 13yrs

Colours: khaki, lilac

Contact: salomon.com

Sherpa Mula Beanie

RRP: £25

Colour: cranberry

Colours: rainy day, cherry tomato, midnight navy, rum raisin, deep black, baked clay

Contact: mountainwarehouse.com

Sherpa’s eyecatching range of knitwear and outdoor pursuit clothing is made from eco-friendly materials, while its sales help provide schooling for children in Nepal. This eyecatching stripy beanie – complete with pom-pom – is made from Merino wool, alpaca wool and lambswool, and is crafted by women’s cooperatives in Kathmandu and nearby villages. It comes in one size and offers substantial warmth and comfort on colder days.

Contact: sherpaadventuregear.com

Berghaus Summit-Nomad Down Insulated Mens Jacket

Featuring water-repellent ‘Hydrodown’ technology this warming layer can also be folded down into its own pocket for easy storage. The outer is constructed using lightweight, durable nylon and it also features an insulated fixed hood, internal zipped chest pocket, two hand pockets, drawstring hem adjustment and elasticated cuffs.

RRP: £300

Sizes: XS-3XL

Weight: 480g

Contact: berghaus.com

Club Shop: Latest additions

Ocoopa UT3 Lite Magnetic Rechargeable Hand Warmers

Ideal for slipping into your, these mini handwarmers should help take the edge off the coldest of days. Slim and lightweight, they are a good choice whether you are heading out for a frosty dog walk or a chilly round of golf. Magnetic for easy storage, each features a 2,500mAh battery, and can deliver warmth for up to six hours. They come complete with a pouch, wrist lanyards and a charging cable.

RRP: £29.99

Colours: black on black; orange on black; pink on white; grey on black

Contact: ocoopa.com; available from whitbyandco.co.uk

Thule Lift V16 bike rack

The Thule Lift V16 is a handy, adjustable bike rack which can be fitted to the rear of your motorhome. The base can be lowered and raised using a crank for ease of use. Members save 10%.

Avtex Wi-Fi AMR105X

Enhance your touring adventures with the Avtex Wi-Fi AMR105X. Enjoy fast speeds of up to 300Mbps with the 5G Category 6 LTE router and powerful, 5G-ready antenna. Members save 5%.

Don’t forget to head to Club Shop (shop.camc.com) where you can browse from a range of discounted touring and camping accessories. Here are some of the latest products to land….

TentBox Go

Featuring integrated storage pockets and a large, zippable skylight, the TentBox Go rooftop tent is incredibly light at just 33kg. It can be put up in just 60 seconds and comfortably sleeps two people. Members save 10%.

This compact filter coffee maker is fitted with an easy access swing filter and convenient glass pot. It can brew up to five cups of fresh coffee and features a built-in warming plate. Members save 10%.

CLASS ACTS

Cameron

Burns reveals the 12 category

winners in the Club’s 30th Caravan Design Awards

Choosing a new caravan can be bewildering and time-consuming –that’s why the Club set up the Caravan Design Awards to help members make an informed decision when buying a new tourer. In October, a panel of seven expert judges descended on the NEC in Birmingham to give their opinions on which designs rate among the best on the market today.

CLASS ONE POP TOPS 1,150KG AND UNDER WITHOUT WASHROOM

Kicking the competition off in style was the Going Go-Pod Flex, a two-berth micro caravan with ultra-sleek, one-piece bodyshell. Featuring the kind of design and build usually reserved for the upper echelons of the campervan market, it boasts two long sofas that can form a double bed at the front of the caravan and a kitchen/ wardrobe area at the rear. Judges were impressed by the quality of the fit and finish, the clever use of space in the kitchen and the trendy but tasteful interior.

For this 30th-anniversary edition of the competition, every caravan manufacturer in the industry was invited to submit models for consideration in one or more of 12 classes. The judges, selected due to their caravanning experience, included a member of the Executive Committee, caravan industry journalists and authors, as well as caravanning YouTubers.

The evaluation process took around three weeks, and every facet of each of the 50 entrants was considered – from the tow hitch to the tail lights. Judges compared payloads, rated standard equipment, scored build quality and considered the practicality of every model. Their findings are fed back to the manufacturers each year in the hope that the Club will have a positive influence on future design.

For more information about all the entries see camc.com/caravandesign where you can also search for dealerships selling your selected models. Please ensure that your chosen vehicle is available to view at the dealership prior to travelling.

Second place goes to the Trigano Mini Freestyle 270, a neat, compact caravan from France offering the same layout as the Go-Pod Flex. It’s a useful little camping package for two people, with a decent-sized bed and a simple but well-designed kitchen area.

Judges noted that although the standard of finish was excellent, some of the design details such as the front locker felt unsubstantial. Notably, however, the exceptionally low MRO of just 583kg made the Freestyle 270 the lightest caravan considered during the 2025 awards.

CLASS TWO

ANY POP TOP CARAVAN OVER 1,150KG

It would be too easy to dismiss all Eriba caravans as one and the same, as a result of their strong brand identity, but they are in fact available with a wide range of specification options and floorplans.

The Eriba Touring 620 Legend would claim top spot in this class, mostly thanks to its wonderfully inventive double bed positioned in its elevating roof. A clever twist on a design classic, the Touring 620 Legend brings the campervan and caravan worlds together. Judges also praised it for its standard of finish, attention to detail and excellent sleeping provision for up to four. Featuring a large front-end L-shape kitchen, central washroom with sideboard opposite, and two large seat bunks at the rear, it was one of the more unconventional layouts in the competition.

Offering a completely different vibe, the runner-up was the Eriba Touring 540 Harbour Blue Edition. One judge commented, “The interior complements the exterior perfectly in both design and colour scheme, evoking a relaxing, seaside atmosphere”. Praise was given for the substantial A-frame design and the lack of plastics used inside and out. It displayed a refreshing twist on Eriba’s

retro-inspired design, neatly packaged as a practical double-dinette layout. In third place, the Eriba Touring 630 Urban three-berth has a huge, king-size fixed bed at the rear and a very generous central kitchen area. Although judges remarked that it was a perfect two-berth, it was noted that the compact front dinette would be a squeeze for a third person. They applauded the aerodynamic body design, though, which will make a positive contribution towards fuel economy when towing.

A clever twist on a design classic

OTHER CLASS ENTRIES

■ Eriba Touring 530 Nugget Gold Edition

■ Eriba Touring 542 Legend

■ Trigano Mini Freestyle 300 Sport Edition

CLASS THREE CARAVANS 750KG-1,150KG

The top three places in this class were hotly contested, but in the end the sensible and sturdy Bailey Phoenix GT75 420 claimed the top spot. One judge commented, “The new Phoenix GT75 facelift gives the caravan an upmarket appearance, using grey sides that are usually seen on premium priced caravans”. It was felt that the tourer offered excellent value for money with an enduranceproven Alu-Tech bodyshell, practical two-berth layout and decent standard specification.

On its heels in second place was the Xplore XC DUO, a completely revamped version for 2025 of the old Xplore 422. It has excellent standard equipment, boasting Al-Ko ATC, an alarm/tracker, rear-mounted bike carrier, Wi-Fi antenna on the roof, gas barbecue point, television bracket, microwave and Omnivent roof fan – all in a package that costs £24,249 on the road.

In third place – and very close behind – was the Adria Action 361 LT, which is celebrating its 20th year in production. Its curvaceous exterior shell has remained true to the original design, but the interior has been

drastically modernised over the years. Sadly, those fantastic exterior lines lost the Action valuable points for practicality when judges assessed how a selection of average awnings would fit, and considered the ease of cleaning the front high-level panoramic windows. But the Action 361 LT redeemed itself when it came to build quality and craftsmanship, with one judge stating, “It is superbly finished off: one of the most seamlessly well-constructed caravans on the market”.

■

CLASS FOUR ANY CARAVAN UP TO £25,000

As the brand celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025, it is perhaps befitting that a ‘Sprite’ model should scoop the top prize in this class. The Swift Sprite Alpine 2 was the clear, deserved winner, with the tried and tested end-washroom, two-berth layout attracting universal praise. One judge described the Alpine 2 as having “a generous washroom with a boutique vibe”. Value for money was noted, as this model features many design elements that are ordinarily reserved for caravans at higher price points, including a tall fridge, an external power output socket and a gas barbecue point.

Second place was the familyfriendly Bailey Discovery D4-4, which features a fixed French bed and a generously sized front lounge area. This model was praised for both its low weight of 1,248kg fully laden and low price – £22,144 on the road. It offers first timers and families on a

budget a sensible modern design with a practical end washroom.

Featuring a popular transverse island bed layout, the Xplore XC QUAD placed third in this class. All the judges commended it for its high level of standard specification and modern cosmetic overhaul.

ENTRIES

One judge described the Alpine 2 washroom as having a ‘boutique vibe’

RUNNER-UP: BAILEY DISCOVERY D4-4

CLASS FIVE ANY TWO-BERTH CARAVAN

The spacious end-washroom two-berth layout reigned supreme in this class. The Swift Challenger Exclusive 480 was the winner, with one judge noting “in the Challenger’s 40th year of production, it continues to define what’s expected of an upmarket caravan range”. Boasting features such as Alde heating, a roof-mounted Wi-Fi antenna and alloy wheels, this is definitely a luxurious tourer for two that the judges found to be well built with a great standard of finish.

In second place was the highly regarded Bailey Unicorn Deluxe Seville, which has been completely overhauled for 2025. A redesigned kitchen unit with new worktops, pull-out storage rack and plush flexible tap fitting scored extremely well. The new Unicorn Deluxe Seville gains a large, 137-litre Thetford fridge, a larger 130W solar panel and clever remote-controlled zoned lighting.

Another caravan benefitting from a sparkling overhaul was the Elddis Avanté 520, which features a new bodyshell and interior. One judge remarked that “every new detail is a huge improvement”. One such example is the new double-hinged front locker door, which slides up against the front windows, allowing for easier access.

A luxurious tourer for two ... well built with a great standard of finish

CLASS SIX

CONVENTIONAL CARAVAN WITH THREE OR FOUR BERTHS

Perhaps it’s a reflection of the times that there were only two entrants to this category. Models with fixed beds seem to be more popular than ever, but the winner here, the Bailey Unicorn Deluxe Madrid, could perhaps change a few opinions about the necessity of permanent

sleeping set-ups. Judges were wowed by the sheer amount of space that this caravan offers, with its traditional side dinette/end washroom layout. The Madrid scooped this award last year, but the new 2025 model sees Bailey swap the placement of the kitchen and the

RUNNER-UP: ERIBA TOURING 620 LEGEND

dinette around, which not only gives the impression of more space, but allows the incorporation of a tall 137l Thetford fridge. Other improvements for 2025 include a larger 130W roof-mounted solar

panel, remote control zoned lighting and a Sonos portable sound speaker. Second place went to the Eriba Touring 620 Legend, which was the winner of the ‘Any Pop Top Caravan Over 1,150kg’ category (see earlier).

CLASS SEVEN

ANY FIXED BED CARAVAN WITH THREE OR FOUR BERTHS

It was a very close race in this category, the fixed transverse island bed Adria Alpina 623 UC Mississippi just nudging ahead to claim the top spot, with one judge stating, “the Mississippi looks a step up from the other class entrants”. This exceedingly plush model is priced accordingly, but Adria has really delivered value for money. Judges applauded the top-quality fixtures and fittings, which should ensure longevity. The high spec also includes Alde underfloor

heating. A judge enthused: “It’s so elegantly designed with its curved upper lockers [and] stylish kitchen design, and built for comfort with headrests in the lounge area and U-shaped lounge. It certainly has the ‘wow’ factor.”

Following up in second place is the Bailey Alicanto Grande Deluxe Evora, which won this class last year. The new 2025 ‘Deluxe’ trim makes the Alicanto feel more special than ever, with contemporary soft

furnishings and interior décor that would enhance any modern home. But the improvements aren’t just cosmetic, with one judge noting: “The Alicanto Deluxe Evora kitchen is well presented. The subtle improvements from last year make this kitchen more practical.”

Third place is awarded to the Swift Challenger Exclusive 560, which has

OTHER CLASS ENTRIES

■ Buccaneer Commodore

■ Elddis Crusader Aurora

■ Eriba Touring 630 Urban

■ Knaus Sport 450 FU

■ Xplore XC QUAD

a rear fixed island bed. One of the judges succinctly summarised: “The design is refreshingly modern, straightforward, and current… it boasts several upscale amenities such as the Alde heating system, Wi-Fi and an extractor fan.” The judges felt that overall the Challenger Exclusive 560 represented excellent value for money compared to its rivals.

WINNER:

CLASS EIGHT

ANY CARAVAN WITH FIVE OR SIX BERTHS

The Bailey Pegasus Grande GT75 Ancona takes the top spot in this category, with its fixed bunk/side dinette layout demanding very little compromise for a family of five. From the extra-wide dinette to the long kitchen with plenty of worktop space, judges could see how this model would easily work well for families, with one describing it as “a better five-

berth design than many”. Standard kit includes a roof-mounted solar panel, gas barbecue point, Sonos wireless speaker, Al-Ko ATC, external 230V power output and eco shower head. The maximum weight of 1,579kg also puts it within reach of many family cars. In second place is the Swift Sprite Exclusive Quattro MB, which offers an unusual rear transverse French

RUNNER-UP: SWIFT SPRITE EXCLUSIVE QUATTRO MB

bed layout arrangement and compact, front-end L-shape lounge. The new 2025 ‘Exclusive’ trim adds a few extras to this traditionally budget range, such as a solar panel, wireless charging pad and heavy-duty corner steadies; the judges commended the model for its quality and great level of finish. Finally, in third place, the

OTHER CLASS ENTRIES

■ Buccaneer Aruba

■ Elddis Crusader Tempest

■ Knaus Südwind 580 QS

Adria Adora 612 DL Seine drew praise from the judges for its flexible layout, offering two fixed single beds and an upper fifth-berth bunk that was cleverly disguised as a set of cupboards. The generous bed sizes were also highly commended, with one judge observing, “This is great... for a young family or those with teenagers.”

CLASS NINE

ANY 8FT WIDE CARAVAN

Appealing to the judges was the all-new Bailey Alicanto Grande Deluxe Alvor, an impressive practical caravanning design. It boasts an opulent transverseisland-bed and front L-shape lounge layout that has often been reserved for more expensive caravans in the past.

The judges were pleasantly surprised to find details such as plenty of space around the king-size bed, a cosy lounge boasting a media wall that incorporates a small window to let in natural light, and a well-thoughtout kitchen with a high-level window that provides a view for whoever’s washing up. One judge remarked:

WINNER: BAILEY ALICANTO GRANDE DELUXE ALVOR

“This is probably the ultimate couple’s caravan in terms of practicality, luxury and specification.”

In second place, we find the Swift Elegance Grande 850L, which features a transverse island-bed layout. The flagship Swift, which is pretty much unchanged for 2025, features high-spec elements such as

on-board 4G Wi-Fi and Alde underfloor heating.

The Adria Adora 623 DP Tiber took third. Its quality finish, generous equipment and well-considered design were all noted. One judge said, “Adria has designed a caravan with exceptionally good bed sizes! Spacious for four, indulgent for two.”

RUNNER-UP: SWIFT ELEGANCE GRANDE 850L

OTHER CLASS ENTRIES

■ Buccaneer Commodore

■ Eriba Touring 630 Urban

■ Knaus Sport 450 FU

■ Swift Sprite Major 4 SB

■ Xplore XC QUAD

WINNER: ELDDIS CRUSADER ZEPHYR

CLASS TEN ANY FAMILY CARAVAN

There was a large entry in this category, and the judges were presented with a good selection of family-friendly models across a range of prices. The winner is the Elddis Crusader Zephyr, which impressed the judging panel with its plushlooking exterior design, the interior’s boutique hotel feel and practical

considerations such as the class-leading 2ft 4in-wide front sofas which can be used as either single beds or a large double. The judges observed that the central washroom layout works well to allow families two separate sleeping areas.

Second place goes to the Bailey Phoenix GT75 640, a rear

RUNNER-UP: BAILEY PHOENIX GT75 640

island-bed layout with a central washroom. It was one of the cheapest caravans in the category, and one of the lightest at 1,436kg fully laden. One judge summed it up: “The Bailey Phoenix GT75 640 just does everything well, as an all-round compromise of space, size, weight and price, it’s pretty peerless.”

In third place is the Adria Altea 622 DP Dart, another fixed island bed tourer. Judges were impressed with the quality and attention to detail: “The front locker design is great, and small details like fitting a stable door have not been overlooked,” said one. It also attracted praise for its long A-frame with space for a bike rack.

CLASS ELEVEN ANY LARGE FAMILY CARAVAN

The winner of this category, the Bailey Pegasus Grande GT75 Amalfi, incorporates both fixed bunk beds and a fixed double bed. This huge, 8ft-wide, 20ft 9in-long, twin-axle tourer provides plenty of space for up to six people. It gained praise for its external locker access and the designers’ approach to storage solutions. One judge said, “Bailey has carefully considered the storage needs of a larger family, and the shelving by the beds is a thoughtful addition.” Other useful features include a roof-mounted solar panel, plenty of USB charging points, a wireless Sonos speaker and pre-wiring for mobile Wi-Fi.

In second place is the Elddis Avanté 868, which also features a rear fixed bed and fixed bunk bed layout. It compares very favourably to the winning model in both its standard specification and price, although the bunk beds are quite narrow. Overall, it is an excellent design for young families.

In third place, we find the Adria Altea 622 DK Avon. This triple-

RUNNER-UP: ELDDIS AVANTÉ 868

fixed-bunk six-berth is well designed for families, featuring plenty of space for kids to sit at the back while parents enjoy the large front U-shape lounge, while there are also separate wardrobes for parents and children. One judge said, “The versatility of living and sleeping arrangements means this can be adapted multiple ways for different large families.”

Bailey has carefully considered the storage needs of a larger family

OTHER CLASS ENTRIES

■ Buccaneer Aruba

■ Knaus Südwind 580 QS

■ Swift Sprite Quattro Grande FB

WINNER: SWIFT ELEGANCE GRANDE 835

CLASS TWELVE

ANY CARAVAN OVER £45,000

The fixed-island-bed Swift Elegance Grande 835 ultimately emerged triumphant in this class, impressing with its high quality of finish and excellent standard specification, which included an E&P levelling system and roof-mounted air conditioning. Inside, judges found opulent fittings such as an

illuminated drinks cabinet, with one joking, “I think I’ve been upgraded to first class!”

The Buccaneer Barracuda – in second place – featured a dark wood interior and light soft furnishings, resulting in a similar ‘wow’ factor to the Swift. The judges loved the large stargazer skylight and the practical

double-hinged front locker design, but were a little critical of the lack of external locker access.

The Eriba Touring 620 Legend picked up third place. A very

different concept from the other two models in this class, it triumphed in the ‘Any Pop Top Caravan Over 1,150kg’ class (see earlier).

Judges found opulent fittings such as an illuminated drinks cabinet

RUNNER-UP: BUCCANEER BARRACUDA

Stone the Crows!

From the striking blue jay to the imposing raven, the crow family has always made an impression. David Chapman takes a look at the varieties we can observe in this country

Crows are confident, cocky and seared into our psyche, the subject of more myths and fables than any other family of birds. While we tend to disapprove of their behaviour, the crow family – which includes magpies, jays, jackdaws and choughs as well as ravens and rooks – can never be described as uninteresting.

Many crows, most notably ravens, feed on carrion. Today we might find this distasteful, but thousands of years ago our Norse ancestors revered them for that very behaviour, as they would eat the flesh of dead warriors before burial. They believed that ravens were messengers from their god, Odin, and in areas of the British Isles where Norse influence was strong, such as in Orkney and Caithness, the raven was adopted as an emblem.

The jay and magpie are notorious for stealing eggs from the nests of other birds, though it is the magpie that takes most of the blame, probably because its pied plumage is associated with evil and bad fortune. It is said that the magpie carries some of the Devil’s blood and was the only bird not to go onto the ark with Noah. Magpies are known as the ‘thieves’ of the bird world; from

Rossini’s opera, The Thieving Magpie, to our use of magpies on posters warning about thieves operating in certain areas, this reputation is fostered to this day.

The crows is usually associated with bad luck and its name is often linked with negativity: ‘to crow’ means to boast when victorious and ‘crow’s feet’ refer to the lines found around our eyes as we age.

Further evidence of our negativity towards crows can be found in their collective nouns: a murder of crows; a mischief of magpies; a band of jays; a clattering of jackdaws; and an unkindness of ravens. The only crow with a flattering collective noun is the chough, which collects in ‘chatters’.

While it is interesting to learn about such folklore, it is important to respect crows for what they are: intelligent, adaptable and sociable. Here I offer a brief look at the eight crow species found in this country.

RAVEN (CORVUS CORAX )

The largest representative of the crow family in our country, the raven is known for its wide range of distinctive, guttural croaking calls. When in flight, the raven’s long, thick neck and wedge-shaped tail are clear, while it might be possible to see its huge bill when it is at rest. Once common only in the north and west of the UK, it is now found across the whole country.

Insets above: the jackdaw has a pale iris and black face; hooded crows are found in the north and west of Scotland

Top left: a chough in flight; note the splayed wing tips

Top right and left: a single magpie is often associated with bad luck

“ The jay’s plumage makes it one of our most striking birds ”

Clockwise from top: the raven has a large bill; the jay is considered the prettiest member of the crow family; the rook has an oily black plumage

MYSTERY PHOTO

Every month I will show you a photo of something from the natural world. It might be a close-up, or a subject which is difficult to identify. All you have to do is figure out what it is! Here is this month’s photo; no clues or prizes – it’s just for fun. I will give you the answer next month, but if you can’t wait, see the Digital Magazine.

The subject of November’s mystery photo was: a male brambling.

In Cornish folklore King Arthur was believed to have been reincarnated as a raven, and to harm a raven would bring bad luck.

CARRION CROW (CORVUS CORONE )

Like the raven, the carrion crow is black all over, but it is much smaller – about the same size as a rook. Unlike the rook, though, carrion crows are usually seen singly or in small groups (if you see a big flock of crows they are likely to be rooks!).

It is likely that the saying ‘stone the crows’ originated in Australia, where large flocks would be stoned to scare them away from farm stock.

HOODED CROW (CORVUS CORNIX )

The hooded crow only came to be regarded as a separate species from the carrion crow in 2002. The two are similar in size and can interbreed, but their plumage is quite different. Named after their black hood (plus wings and tail) on a grey body, hooded crows are found in the north and west of Scotland.

ROOK (CORVUS FRUGILEGUS )

Originally being referred to as the ‘hroc’, the rook’s name is derived from its call. It has an oily-black plumage, a pointed beak and quite baggy, untidy feathers around its flanks. Its most distinctive feature is the bald, white patch around the base of the bill. It can be seen probing muddy ground for leatherjackets and the grubs of beetles such as cockchafers (which have become known as ‘rookworms’).

The saying ‘as the crow flies’ is likely to refer to the rook, which has a very direct flight. Rooks breed in large colonies known as ‘rookeries’ – these are deemed to bring good fortune, but some say it’s bad luck if the birds leave. An old wives’ tale is that if rooks build their nests high in the trees we will have good weather, but if they build low down then it will be wet and cold.

MAGPIE (PICA PICA)

The magpie is an unmistakable bird with iridescent, pied plumage and a very long tail. Magpie-related superstition and folklore abound, but the best known comes in the form of a rhyme:

One for sorrow, two for joy,

Three for a girl, four for a boy,

Five for silver, six for gold,

Seven for a secret never to be told.

This poem has many variations and extensions, but all begin with ‘one for sorrow’. Encountering a single magpie is regarded as unlucky, but people have always believed there are ways to thwart this bad luck. I was taught to salute a single magpie to show respect, while my wife blinks, pretending to see two magpies. Other entertaining remedies include pinching your companion three times; saying “Hello Mr Magpie, how is your wife?” or revolving three times on the spot.

JAY (GARRULUS GLANDARIUS )

The jay’s plumage makes it one of our most striking birds. It is easily identified by its dusky pink body, black moustache and white rump, and striking flash of blue on its wings. Its loud screeching call has earned it a variety of local names, including ‘devil scritch’.

JACKDAW (CORVUS

MONEDULA)

Smaller than the carrion crow, this is another predominantly black bird, but look closely and you will see it has a grey head, contrasting with its black face. Young jackdaws have the most beautiful eyes, their black pupils juxtaposing blue irises which fade to white as the bird ages.

CHOUGH (PYRRHOCORAX

PYRRHOCORAX )

Words ending in ‘ough’ can be pronounced in many ways (consider cough, bough, though and tough). This bird’s name is now pronounced ‘chuff’, though it would once have been pronounced ‘chow’, alluding to the bird’s call. Choughs can be recognised by their beautiful red legs and beak, and glossy black plumage.

The chough is similar in size to the jackdaw and breeds around the coast of Wales, Cornwall, western Scotland and Ireland. It has recently been reintroduced to Kent and further reintroductions are planned.

INSPECT A GADGET

Sammy Faircloth looks at a selection of kit designed to make our touring lives easier

I’m always looking for ways to simplify life, especially when I’m on holiday in a caravan or motorhome. The market is flooded with products that can make our touring lives easier and some are truly innovative – here, I take a look at some of my favourite pieces of kit.

PORTICO AWNINGS

I appreciate the benefits of awnings so much that I own five of them! I recently discovered ‘portico’ awnings, small canopies that fit over the caravan door, providing shelter without the need to assemble a full awning.

I had originally dismissed them as unnecessary, but having taken a closer look have added a Dometic Portico AIR awning to my collection. It’s quite handy for shorter trips, providing ready protection from sun, rain and wind. The Dometic model is especially convenient to set up, and secures easily to the draught skirt rail of the caravan. It also features two storage pockets, perfect for stashing shoes or a torch, etc.

A collapsible watering can is ideal for topping up the flush water

During winter storage, awning rails often collect dirt and other debris. Before my first trip of the season, I always give my caravan a thorough clean, and an awning rail brush is perfect for reaching into those narrow spaces, clearing out debris and any unwelcome guests!

I never set off on a break without a set of storm straps for my awning. A heavy night-time gale in Spain once took us by

surprise but, thankfully, our Isabella storm kit, which consists of a protective band and heavy duty peg, kept everything securely in position. You can place an empty water bottle over the peg to help prevent tripping.

SPACE-SAVERS

Space and payload are always at a premium in motorhomes and caravans. That’s why collapsible items, such as kettles, buckets, washing-up bowls and watering cans are great pieces of kit. Club members benefit from a 10% member offer on items in the Colapz range of products, including water containers and utility bags (see camc.com/ colapz for more details), while the likes of space-saving mugs and bowls from Outwell are available at discounted prices from shop.camc.com

KITCHEN KIT

Tourers who love a special coffee first thing in the morning might be interested in the compact, lightweight Wacaco Minipresso GR – simply add hot water and ground coffee, and you have a fresh espresso in next to no time. Following a demonstration at one of the national shows, I purchased the RidgeMonkey Connect Sandwich Toaster Granite Edition –it’s a great piece of kit, perfect for making delicious toasties on a traditional stove (not suitable for induction hobs). It can be used to cook other things like pies and omelettes, while a detachable hinge system allows you to separate the pans, and cook items separately. It even comes with a heat-resistant utensil set that stows away between the pans.

TECHNICAL GEAR

After a nerve-wracking experience towing our caravan around Paris, we realised that we needed to invest in a proper sat-nav. We opted for the Avtex Tourer Three Sat Nav GPS – this navigation system is particularly suited to touring as it lets you input the weight and dimensions of your outfit, helping you avoid routes with height, width and weight restrictions. It also gives access to the Club’s campsite database, making it easy to search, filter and view locations across the network. We purchased our system through the Club Shop, which offers a member discount – for more information, see shop.camc.com

We’ve become increasingly dependent on Wi-Fi signal for accessing social media, checking the weather or streaming films in the caravan. To help when the originating signal is weak we have invested in a Solwise Patriot-Nano Wi-Fi Extender Kit – its exterior antenna picks up wireless signals and sends them down a cable to an interior antenna; this then rebroadcasts a Wi-Fi signal to your laptop, smartphone or tablet. I hope I’ve provided you with a few suggestions that might really enhance your holiday experience – happy touring!

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.

“ Space and payload are always at a premium in motorhomes and caravans ”

Awning rail brushes are a handy edition to your touring kit

£90 in Club gift vouchers to be won CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Flight attendant (7)

5 Minty striped sweet (6)

8 The dregs ( 7)

10 Cast a ballot (4)

11 Pay later system (6)

12 Backbone (5)

14 Make a request (3)

15 Destroy bacteria with a chemical (9)

16 Be fond of (4)

17 Tenacity (4)

19 Wealthy (4,3 )

22 Bang foot on the floor (5)

24 Childbirth instrument (7 )

26 National ensign (4)

28 Window material ( 5)

29 Blows hot and cold (6)

31 Serves at a table (6)

33 Wound stitch (6)

35 Cereal used in broth (6)

38 Slight cuts (5)

39 Door chime (4)

40 Car framework ( 7)

43 Emerge from an egg (5)

45 Comic strip ( 7 )

47 Disobey (4)

49 Designated space (4)

50 Frog, toad or newt (9 )

53 Faster than a walk (3 )

54 A sandwich (5 )

55 Weaken or worsen (6)

56 Sinful and wicked (4)

1 Pre-bedtime snack (6)

2 Curve in the hair (4)

3 Put clothes on (5)

4 Reply meaning ‘no’ (8)

5 Harass a speaker (6)

6 Small southern African mongoose (7)

7 Be dismissed (3,3,4)

9 US 10 cents (4)

13 Slight cold symptom (7)

15 Cloudy and overcast (4)

17 Work hard ( 5 )

18 Small, thin tree branch (4)

20 Pig grunt (4)

21 Crest of a hill (4)

23 Insatiable greed ( 7)

25 Flower part ( 5 )

27 Peachy-plum fruit (7)

28 Mix of black and white (4)

29 Unnecessary agitation (4)

30 Contract (eg a cold) ( 5 )

32 Malfunction mechanically (2, 3,5)

34 A piece of cake (4)

35 Cookie or cracker (7)

36 Back part of something (4)

37 Craftily (5)

39 Curve in a road (4)

41 Second largest ocean ( 8 )

42 Timely blessing (4)

44 Small shrub berry ( 7 )

46 Hand cart (6)

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57 Asthma breathing aid (7)

58 Act in an excessively servile manner (6)

59 Handleless drinking container (7)

48 Healthier (6)

51 Pedestrian route (4)

52 Lacking the power to move (5)

54 Spill the beans (4)

WORD SEARCH

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ASK YOUR CLUB

The Club’s technical team answers your pressing questions

Diesel winter worries

QI’ve heard both diesel fuel and AdBlue can freeze in the winter. Should I be concerned?

ADiesel will start to ‘wax’ (crystallise) in cold weather – basically, it starts to solidify with waxy particles making it turn cloudy. That can clog fuel filters, injectors or even fuel lines. In the UK, the diesel fuel (and biodiesel) distributed from November to March is a ‘winter’ grade, which is specified to operate down t o -15°C without starting to solidify. That’s sufficient in

terms of the coldest temperatures that most of the UK tends to see, but if extreme conditions are forecast or you’re in an area like the Highlands which regularly sees lower temperatures than most, then additives are available that extend the operating temperature down further. Ideally, put the additive in when you refuel – it needs to be effectively mixed with the diesel to work properly. Where vehicles are used in really extreme winter conditions, they’re often equipped with heaters for

CLEAN GETAWAY! SOLUTIONS FOR THE ROAD AHEAD

Both diesel and AdBlue can be affected by the cold

the fuel tank and fuel lines, as well as for the fuel filter, which is often the most vulnerable component. In some countries with harsher conditions than we normally see, their winter fuel is rated for use as low as -32°C or even -44°C. Brrr! UK ‘summer’ diesel is only rated for use to -5°C, which is usually no problem. However, if you put a vehicle into winter storage at the end of, say, October, bear in mind that it will contain summer fuel. That’s not ideal if you plan the occasional winter trip out before things warm up again in the spring. Schedule a top-up with winter diesel before things get too cold if you’re planning Christmas or New Year away.

More recent diesel vehicles may also use AdBlue (diesel exhaust fluid) to improve their emissions performance. AdBlue can also freeze and crystallise, but not until temperatures fall

below -10°C. You can get additives that will lower its operating temperature further. However, AdBlue has been widely used in the UK for around a decade without any significant level of crystallisation problems. That’s probably because there’s a regulation for engines which use it which requires them to get it warm enough sufficiently quickly after the engine starts to minimise any risk of problems.

Please address your questions to:

Technical Information, Email: technical@camc.com Tel: 01342 336611

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

TAIL LIGHTS

Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring

SPRING A LEEK

“We thought someone had a great sense of humour on Hurn Lane Club site near Burnham-on-Sea,” joke Sandra and Colin Foxall. “We think the plumber must have turned up as it had disappeared the next day!”

Grass pitch

Now, it’s a nice disguise, but that is definitely a caravan; you’re fooling nobody. Spotted at the Loughcrew commercial site in Ireland by John Macfarlane.

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

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.

Canoe believe it?

There are home-made outfits... and then there are home-made outfits! This boat-turned-bike, rocketshaped caravan and chicken coop –providing a daily breakfast – was recently spotted in Amboise, France, by Liam Nolan. Thanks Liam!

SHIVER ME

TIMBERS

Guests visiting the recently re-opened Godrevy Park Club Campsite near Hayle in Cornwall should keep an eye on their valuables as they enter the site. Club member Ian Clayton sent in this picture of a scurvy dog seen hanging around at the gate – he thinks he had maybe missed out on either the local pasty deliveries or the visiting fish and chip van!

TAIL LIGHTS

Your observations on the fun and unusual world of touring

Orion's belter

The ‘green machine’ featured in our August and September issues last year inspired many of you to write in. Here are a couple of pictures taken by Frances Muncaster in Guignicourt, Hautes-deFrance towards the end of

2024. Frances says that it was an interesting motorvan in seemingly excellent running order.

On the road

This heavy-duty motorhome was seen in France by Ann Henderson. Judging by the markings on the side, it has travelled from Wijk bij Duurstede near Utrecht in the Netherlands, and the text beneath the name is the municipality’s slogan, which translates as ‘Small town, Big history’.

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.

BACK ON TRAC

“We had spent a lovely week at the fabulous Southland Club site on the Isle of Wight,” say The Merrett Family. “On our return journey we had this beauty behind us on the ferry! Not what we expected to see when we returned to our vehicle, however our children absolutely loved it.”

RUBBLE TROUBLE

There’s a clear, no-nonsense instruction on this lane. If there’s dust, then readjust! Thanks to Nikki Bosworth for the picture.

Special O a

Jonathan Manning cycles in the shadow of Offa’s Dyke Path on this testing ride which skirts the England-Wales border

Club members save 50% on a Cycling UK 12-month membership which includes great benefits and discounts plus expert advice and information. Find out more at camc.com/cyclinguk

Borderlands never fail to surprise. Politics and government demand that a frontier has to exist, but landscapes and communities rarely divide themselves so neatly.

And so it is on this ride, setting off from Pandy Club Campsite in Monmouthshire, which crosses almost immediately into England, yet passes a series of villages a nd buildings with Welsh-sounding names, such as Llanveynoe, Upper, Middle and Lower Maes-coed and Cwmbologue.

Centuries of contested AngloWelsh rivalry is evidenced by the ruined castle at Longtown. Its thick stone walls are losing the battle with the elements, but the free-to-visit fortress retains a photogenic appeal.

If skirmishes were once the order of the day here, today peace reigns.

CYCLING VIDEOS

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

It’s exceptionally quiet, beyond the occasional mew of a buzzard soaring over the hills. Cyclists will be relieved that the ride doesn’t climb to the imposing ridgeline that carries Offa’s Dyke Path, but there’s still plenty of ascent to challenge lungs, thighs and e-bike batteries – the long and sustained uphill sections sweetened by gleeful descents.

Divine inspiration for pedalling skywards is in abundant supply, with the churches at Clodock, Longtown and Michaelchurch Escley being particularly attractive. Alternatively, the Carpenters Arms at Walterstone, with its vivid traditional advertising signs on the outside walls, offers olde worlde charm at an ideal break point in the ride.

In theory, this should be an easy route to navigate, but due to the absence of road signs in a few places, it’s definitely advisable to download the GPX file from Strava to follow on your bike computer or phone.

DIRECTIONS

1

From Pandy Club Campsite turn left and continue for 10km, passing through Clodock and Longtown (the ruined castle is worth a quick stop) to reach a road on the right opposite a house and barn.

2 10km – Turn right, signposted to Michaelchurch Escley, heading downhill and then climbing up the far side of the valley to reach a T-junction.

3

12.4km – Turn left at the junction and continue into Michaelchurch Escley. After passing the church on the right, take the right turn (opposite a black and white house) signposted to Vowchurch and Hereford, and climb a hill to reach a crossroads at Crossways Farm.

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

© Crown copyright 2025 Ordnance Survey Media 004/25

4

15.4km – Turn right at the crossroads, signposted to Newton, Bacton and Pontrilas. Continue for 6.5km to reach a T-junction.

ABOUT THE ROUTE

5

21.9km – Turn left at the T-junction, signposted to Ewyas Harold and Dulas, and continue for about 400m before taking a road on the right, signposted to Balls Cross. Continue for another 2.2km to reach a white cottage on a corner on the right. Turn right here and continue uphill to a T-junction.

6

24.5km – Turn right at the T-junction, signposted to Walterstone and Pandy, and continue for 7km to reach a T-junction.

7

31.7km – Turn left at the junction and follow the road back to the Club campsite on the right hand side of the road.

Start/finish: Pandy Club Campsite, Pandy, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 8DR, Wales. Distance: 16miles/32km.

Time: 2 hours.

Level: Suitable for fitter riders and e-bikers, due to hills. Terrain: Asphalt all the way, uneven in places.

Landscape: Farmland, hills and valleys.

Refreshments: Carpenters Arms, Walterstone.

Park LIFE

Mark Sutcliffe is a former editor of Country Walking magazine and a regular contributor to the Club Magazine. Mark has walked thousands of miles across Britain and Europe and is currently working on his second walking guidebook.

Mark Sutcliffe ventures into Robin Hood country on a relaxed walk from the gates of Clumber Park Club Campsite

Clumber Park is a peaceful refuge away from the towns and cities of the East Midlands and a popular stopover point for tourers owing to its convenient location near the A1.

B ut there’s much more to explore in the area than an overnight stop allows, with some 3,800 acres of mature woodland hewn from the ancient and mighty Sherwood Forest.

Clumber was once the site of an imposing stately home due to being the family seat of the Dukes of Newcastle. This was demolished in 1938 after devastating fires in 1879 and 1912, but the legacy of the Dukes’ 300-year tenure is still visible: a two-mile avenue of lime trees, an estate lake, the stables and walled garden, the cathedral-like Chapel of

St Mary the Virgin and the pretty model village of Hardwick.

Our route starts at Clumber Park Club Campsite, which is open all year, and explores all these treasures in a relaxed 10km ramble through the woods, around the lake and along a section of the long-distance Robin Hood Way.

DIRECTIONS

1Leave the Club campsite via the main gate and head left along the access road and go straight across a crossroads. Continue past the

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automatic gate and through Hardwick Wood to reach Hardwick Village.

2

2.2km – Continue past a war memorial and straight through the village. Turn right at a junction past barns and a pub (The Park Inn) and then head slightly left, following blue arrows onto the lakeside path. Continue over the outflow and follow a lakeside path for a mile and a half.

3

4.8km – Near the head of the lake cross the Ornamental Bridge and fork right, heading towards the visitor centre. Continue over a crossroads and head towards the spire of the chapel, turning left at a junction and then left again. You can stop for refreshments at the visitor centre before resuming your walk.

4 5.5km – Follow the verge alongside the road on Robin Hood Way and continue past a cricket field with a beautiful thatched pavilion and bus shelter. Go through a gate and over a crossroads.

5 6.4km – Head slightly right after the crossroads onto a bridleway through the woods on Robin Hood Way footpath and continue through parkland to reach the next lane. Turn right along the lane and after 300m take a track on the right into woodland.

6 8.4km – Continue for 600m through gates to meet a lane and turn left to walk along the avenue of lime trees to reach the entrance to the Club campsite after another 500m.

ABOUT THE ROUTE

Start/finish: Clumber Park Club Campsite, Lime Tree Avenue, Worksop, Nottinghamshire S80 3AE. Distance: 10.3km/6.3 miles. Time: 2hrs 30mins.

Level: Suitable for occasional walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Terrain: Woodland paths and tracks, quiet lanes and short stretches of slightly busier road.

Landscape: Woodland, parkland and lakeside paths. Refreshments: The Park Inn (open Fri-Sun), Hardwick Village; Turning Yard cafe, Lake Brew and Central Bark, all in Clumber Park.

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