Have you won tickets to the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015?

Posted by

by Joe Jeffrey

In our latest competition, CaravanTimes offered you the opportunity to win tickets for the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show taking place at the NEC in Birmingham next week. Read on to find out if you’re a winner!

The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015 looks set to be the biggest and best yet. From special guest speakers, to activities for the whole family to enjoy, the show, taking place next week from 17 – 22 February, promises to be an experience like no other.

In our most recent competition, CaravanTimes offered you the opportunity to get in on the action that awaits next week, by taking part in our latest competition.

To be in with a chance of winning we asked you to like our Facebook page – it really was that simple. And the winners are in! The lucky recipients of a pair of tickets for the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015 are:

Steve Ibell, Peter Rollins, Antony Cutts, Kevin Blood, Alan Thomas, Roy Henson, Alison Barker, Sarah Wilkins, Cheryl Billau, Ian Rees, Simon Oakley, Maureen Skinner, Gerald Easton, Sue Hawkins, Julian Grenfell.

Congratulations to you all – we’ll be in touch shortly.
Don’t worry if you didn’t win – tickets are still on sale, so Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015 today.

We hope to see you there!

Seacroft Caravan Club site to extend with additional pitches

Posted by

by Joe Jeffrey

The Caravan Club’s popular Seacroft site is set for an extension, with an additional 21 pitches being added

Seacroft Caravan Club site is set to undergo an extension, in a move which will see an additional 21 pitches introduced in time for summer.

All of the pitches added to the popular site, located in the picturesque coastal town of Cromer in Norfolk, will be hard standing and serviced and bring the total number of pitches to 111. A motorhome waste point will also be introduced, which fits in nicely with The Caravan Club’s commitment to tackle waste on a huge scale, as previously reported here.

The Seacroft Caravan Club site remains a popular choice for caravanners, motorhomers and campers alike, offering an onsite leisure complex which includes a bar, restaurant and outdoor swimming pool. During peak season, visitors to the site are able to immerse themselves in a lively programme of entertainment and activities for all ages, whilst convenient transport links allow for making the most of the many attractions in the area, including Cromer’s beautiful sandy beaches.

Looking at all-weather caravans with Coachman

Posted by

by Joe Jeffrey

As more and more people take to caravanning year round, a good heating system as well as solid insulation is key. CaravanTimes popped along to Coachman Caravans to find out more about what they’ve done for 2015

Great British weather leaves a lot to be desired. Winter is generally bitter, spring is interlaced with scattered showers, summer is unpredictable, and don’t let us get started on the predictable bank holiday drizzle.

Despite the above said, all-weather caravanning is now increasingly popular with many, so it’s imperative that your caravan can withstand the elements poor weather presents. Coachman understands this.

Having introduced two new heating systems across their ranges for 2015, Coachman, which celebrates its 30th anniversary next year, seems to have covered all bases when it comes to ensuring you stay comfortable inside your caravan whatever it’s like outside.

The Truma Combi 6 in Coachman’s Vision and Pastiche ranges, as well as the Alde central heating system used for the Laser and VIP ranges are definitely designed to keep you warm, but couldn’t be more different, whilst providing peace of mind when it comes to all-year-round travel.

The Truma Combi 6 is a blown air heating system with a 6kw output system, operating on both gas and electricity, whilst the Alde central heating system is predominantly gas operated and more akin to the wet central heating you’d find in the home.

Insulation has a part to play too, however, and Coachman understand it’s just as important as choosing the right gas or electric heating system – after all if your heat’s escaping and not remaining where it should, what’s the point?

As a result, a series of cold chamber tests have been carried out in order to ensure all Coachman caravans meet Grade III requirements.

CaravanTimes visited Coachman at their production facility in Hull to find out more about the heating systems used, why insulation is so important and what exactly Grade III testing consists of. So check out our video above and find out for yourselves why Coachman truly is an all-weather caravan manufacturer for 2015.

Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015

No Comments

filed under: Video

The new 2015 Compass Corona: something for everyone

Posted by

by Joe Jeffrey

CaravanTimes went along to check out the latest Compass Corona and see what’s changed for 2015

The return of the Compass in 2013 heralded a new take on an iconic British brand, blending the best of Compass heritage with fresh, innovative design and technology; 2015’s Compass offering looks to build upon that.

Perhaps one of Compass’s most iconic ranges, the Corona has received a makeover for 2015. With seven layouts, there certainly seems to be something for everyone. And when it comes to comfort, the introduction of new Ozio bedding should see you right and provide you with all the support you need.

That’s not all that’s been updated though, and a new Alde heating system should ensure you’re nice and toasty whatever the weather.

A number of additional extras have also been included this year, including lots of equipment in the kitchen to allow for a dining experience the same as you’d have at home, LED lighting throughout and lots more.

Each model in the new Compass Corona portfolio for 2015 is craftsman-built and fully bonded by way of Compass’s unique and exclusive SoLiD Construction. Furthermore, with a ten year Water Ingress and Body Integrity Warranty ensuring total peace of mind when on and off the road, what’s not to like?

In the following video, CaravanTimes takes a closer look at the new Compass Corona for 2015, so take a look above and let us know what you think.

No Comments

filed under: Video

Freedom to Go survey reveals Brits aged 52½ are more likely to rediscover their sense of adventure

Posted by

by Alice Scarsi

Britons rediscover their sense of adventure in their 50s with a majority wanting to explore the UK in a caravan or motorhome

Results of a new survey have revealed the age at which British people seek to rediscover their sense of adventure is 52½.

Freedom to Go, an initiative launched in January 2015 by the National Caravan Council (NCC), The Caravan Club and The Camping and Caravanning Club that promotes the lifestyle benefits of going on holiday in a leisure vehicle, has revealed the figures following a study conducted with 2,000 Brits aged between 40 and 60 years old.

The results clearly indicate that those in their fifties are in search of less of a relaxed, calmer lifestyle following being freed from the responsibilities of parenthood and the worries of economic instability. Instead, people within this age bracket are most likely to regain their identity and begin to explore new interests and passions.

Over half of those interviewed (54 per cent) said that lack of money was the main reason for not pursuing their interests before this age, with 40 per cent indicated that putting their children first was precedent in previous decades. These reasons were followed by the commitment to work and the difficulty taking long breaks as a result – a problem shared by 24 per cent of respondents.

The study also revealed that a third of ‘freed’ Brits would prefer to spend their spare time discovering new areas of the UK – in particular the coasts – whilst 21 per cent would like to spend more time discovering nature. Surprisingly – or not as the case may be – spending time with children and grandchildren comes at a lowly fourth place, and seems to be the main desire of just 20 per cent of those interviewed.

One interesting statistic revealed by the Freedom to Go survey was that nearly 60 per cent of Brits love the idea of using a caravan or motorhome to tour and explore new areas of the United Kingdom. This statistic is encouraging for the promoters of Freedom to Go, as Jennifer Summers, spokesperson for Freedom to Go, reveals: “It’s fascinating to see how attitudes to hitting 50 have changed. The stereotype of a ‘slow down, slippers on’ generation couldn’t be further from the truth. This study shows that for Brits in their fifties, hitting the road and gaining new experiences is becoming the norm. And why not – after the relative stress of our 30s and 40s, we’ve earned the chance to take a Grown Up Gap Year, or more weekends exploring the beauty of Britain.”

What do you think? Does life begin at 50?

Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show survey reveals children spend more time with gadgets than exploring the great outdoors

Posted by

by Alice Scarsi

Survey conducted ahead of Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show reveals youngsters prefer screens over nature

A survey conducted to coincide with the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015 has revealed that 95 per cent of British children spend up to seven hours a day in front of a screen rather than socialising outdoors.

The results of the survey reveal an alarming decline in children socialising with others or getting out in the open, which seems to have been replaced by the growing popularity of computers and videogames, with only 13 per cent of young Britons play outside at least once a day, compared to 30 per cent in previous generations.

Just 37 per cent of children surveyed have climbed a tree, with less than half claiming to have swum in the sea. More shockingly, just two thirds of those questioned have ridden a bicycle or scooter.

According to explorer and author, Simon Reeve, this change in behaviour could prove detrimental to childrens’ awareness of the world that awaits. He said: “A heavy reliance on entertainment through technology means young people aren’t aware of the world around them.

“Families should be making more effort to spend time together in the outdoors.

“And more importance should be put on activities that enrich children’s lives, rather than in pacifying them.”

With the emergence of such figures, the recent launch of the Freedom to Go campaign looks more important and necessary than ever. Isn’t it about time youngsters started developing an affinity with nature and learn how to manage their playtime between technology and outdoors? What so wrong with a good game of conkers anyway?!

Discover what Bailey has in store for you at the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2015

Posted by

by Alice Scarsi

Bailey looks set to offer something for everyone at the NEC next week

The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015 is fast approaching and, with so much to see and do, you’ll be hard-pressed to figure out where to start first in order to see everything. One thing you don’t want to miss, however, is Bailey of Bristol’s stand, which will have plenty to tempt you, aside from its comprehensive range of touring caravans and motorhomes all on display under one roof at the NEC.

Bailey’s stand guarantees to provide lots of fun for the whole family during the NEC show taking place between 17 – 22 February. On the first day, for instance, actress Debbie Arnold will host a ‘Bailey Boutique’ which will offer relaxing, free mini-massages from trained therapists, whereas on the Wednesday and Thursday show days, families will be able to take part in a fun treasure hunt; find the answers to a few simple questions and receive a free Bailey bear. Then, just in time for the weekend, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday talented musicians will be on hand to entertain visitors, while your little ones will be able to enjoy getting their faces painting by some well trained artists.

Three of Bailey’s caravan ranges, namely the Pursuit, Pegasus GT65 and Unicorn will be on display in Birmingham next week too, as well as Bailey’s motorhome offerings for 2015 – the new Approach Autograph range and the all-new Approach Advance range for you to feast your eyes on.

To make it easier to navigate throughout Bailey’s stand in-between being pampered, soaking up the atmosphere (and even getting your face painted!), all caravans and motorhomes on display will be arranged by layout, so that visitors will be able to simply compare the styling and specification levels of the same model across different ranges. Meanwhile, if you are looking for advice regarding how to safely load a caravan, Bailey will also be on hand to offer advice following their recent work alongside the department of mechanical engineering at the University of Bath. To find out more about that, check out our video here.

Layout innovation with the new Approach Advance from Bailey of Bristol

Posted by

by Joe Jeffrey

CaravanTimes takes a look at the all-new Bailey Approach Advance and its layout options – all ideal for the entry-level motorhomer and more

When it comes to Bailey of Bristol’s new motorhome range for 2015, you’d be pretty hard-pressed to want for more. The Approach Advance comes with four layouts, designed with the entry-level motorhomer in mind, whilst ultimately offering something for everyone.

The two-berth 615 and 635 models feature two brand new layouts for the Bailey motorhome sector for 2015, both of which seem to have been designed with the entry-level motorhomer at the forefront of bailey’s design process.

Starting with the 615, a front dinette with space for two welcomes you as soon as you enter through the central side passenger-side door, behind which, near centre, is an ample washroom with toilet and kitchen area with adequate storage space for a couple wishing to take what they need along for the ride. A rear living area will also provide plenty of space when it comes to rest and relaxation, as well as a comfortable double bed for when it’s time to call it a night.

The two-berth 635 meanwhile, features a front lounge just behind the Peugeot boxer cab offering lots of space and the option for two single beds or a comfortable double, followed by the kitchen area and a full-width rear bathroom with plenty of space.

Moving onto the four-berths, the Advance 640 features ample space in the front living area followed by a drivers-side kitchen quite centrally located. A fixed double bed with sprung mattress at the rear, adjacent to the washroom with toilet, will ensure a good night’s sleep.

The Advance 665 has a similar layout as the Approach Autograph 765 and is, in CaravanTimes‘ opinion, the most innovative of the bunch, featuring a fresh, u-shaped rear lounge, side dinette, and the pièce de la’résistence, Bailey’s trademark longitudinal electric-operated dropdown bed.

To find out more about the new Bailey Approach Advance and what else the new range’s four layouts offer, check out our video above and be sure to let us know what you think.

Watch as Storm Imogen washes caravan away down river

Posted by

by Joe Jeffrey

Caravan thought to be owned by Big Issue seller ravaged in wake of Storm Imogen

The moment a caravan was swept downstream in the wake of Storm Imogen has been captured on film.

The footage which was shot by Andy McPhail who runs Apple Campers, was taken on the River Tone near Taunton in Somerset.

Andy said: “A friend of mine had commented on Facebook that morning saying they had seen a caravan in the river and as the owner of a caravan workshop in Wellington I decided to take the children out to see the floods and see if we could see the caravan in the river.

“I recognised the model and we could see curtains still in the caravan but that was about it, we were watching to see if it would make it under the bridge which it surprisingly did.”

It is thought the caravan belonged to a Big Issue seller in the local area.

Check out the video below and join our discussion here to tell us how the weather is in your area.

Caravanserai caravan restaurant opens in Leeds

Posted by

by Alice Scarsi

Old fashioned caravan restaurant promises to take you on a journey through the spice routes

A restaurant themed on an ancient caravan has opened in Leeds.

The brainchild of Leed’s street food expert, Kada Bendaha, Caravanserai is named after moveable roadside inns found in the Middle East in the middle ages where travellers would stop to eat and rest during long journeys.

The restaurant promises dish after dish of fresh, authentic Ottoman recipes, whilst taking patrons to the restaurant on a journey and experience of medieval Mediterranean culture, whilst being immersed in tradition, all inside something resembling a caravan from the outside.

Kada, who previously worked as a chef in Paris before taking on his new venture, said of Caravanserai: “I am still looking for ways to introduce the people of Leeds to new ways of eating, new tastes and food experiences.

“Our Caravanserai reflects the culture that grew out of the mists of medieval Mediterranean culture and spread across continents, weaving spice routes and caravan trails. It is an aromatic settlement of flavours, tastes, heady smells and dramatic culinary theatre.”

If you’re looking for somewhere different to eat, Caravanserai is definitely worth checking out. And, having previously been awarded Glastonbury’s ‘Best Food’ award in 2011, you’ll certainly be making a wise choice, as Kada continues: “All our recipes have been born from the mixing and mingling of ingredients from far-flung kitchens and bazaars, with the freshest local produce available.

“The dishes are something old and something new at the same time, familiar and yet exotic, comforting the body and soul, while delighting the curious mind – rewarding the inquisitive with intrigue, reflecting flavours woven from the past with the best local markets can offer,” he continues.

If the idea of eating in a caravan-restaurant full of history tickles your fancy, head over to find out more about Caravanserai here.

The Caravan Club tackles waste with impressive 90 per cent recycling rate for 2014

Posted by

by Alice Scarsi

The Caravan Club proves its green credentials, recycling an impressive 90 per cent of waste created on its sites

The Caravan Club is not only Europe’s largest touring organisation, but also the greenest and most environmentally friendly it seems.

According to research conducted by the Club, statistics have shown that just under 4,000 tons of waste were produced across the Club’s site network, with 90 per cent of waste being recycled during 2014.

The Club, which runs more than two hundred sites and is affiliated with 2,500 smaller ones – providing around 6.2 million caravanners and motorhomers a place to lay their head each year -, takes issues pertaining to the disposal of waste extremely seriously, concentrating on having the smallest impact possible on the ecosystem by implementing dedicated waste disposal areas across the site network. As a result, the amount of recycled waste for 2014 weighed in at the equivalent of 2,614 caravans.

Nick Lomas, director general of The Caravan Club said on the matter: “When you look at the figures they are pretty impressive and the fact that so much of The Club’s waste is recycled is great news and a great achievement! It is testament to Club members and site visitors that they take the time to sort their rubbish well, thus allowing The Club to ensure only a very small percentage goes to landfill.”

Do you make the most of recycling facilities when pitching up on your favourite site? Do you think enough is done to protect the environment where you stay? It would be interesting to hear what you think.

Min-y-Don Caravan Club Site wins Loo of the Year Award 2014

Posted by

by Alice Scarsi

Snowdonia National Park site wins two titles at the Loo of the Year Awards 2014

A five star caravan park on the Cambrian Coast has scooped the UK Loo of the Year Award for 2014.

Min-y-Don Caravan Club site in Harlech, set within Snowdonia National Park, also managed to retain the highest platinum grading during the presentation ceremony in Solihull.

A £2 million redevelopment in 2008 saw the installation of a luxurious toilet block including full disabled facilities, laundry and dishwashing room, together with private bathrooms.

Min-y-Don Caravan Club Site provides breath-taking views owing to its stunning location between the coast road and local beach, nested below Harlech Castle and offers 100 caravan and motorhome pitches following a recent extension.

Additional amenities close by include fishing, watersports and golf, courtesy of the Royal St David’s Golf Club, and the site also offers the opportunity to explore the nearby town of Harlech and its lively historic centre, full of pubs, restaurants and shops, with plenty to do for all the family.

If you are interested in spending your holidaying at this stunning site, click here for more information.