Wooda Farm Holiday Park welcomes Bessie, the vintage caravan

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by Joe Jeffrey

Wooda Farm Holiday Park in Cornwall accepting bookings now for vintage caravan to commemeorate park’s 40th anniversary

A blast from the past is always a nice break from the norm, and how much further back can you go than to book yourself a stay on a beautifully restored vintage caravan?

To commemorate Wooda Farm Holiday Park’s 40th birthday, a 1958 vintage caravan is available for hire and to say it’s pretty spectacular is a slight understatement.

Having been fully restored to her former glory, Bessie – as she is affectionately known – is sure to provide all you need to escape from it all. From vintage china to beautiful bedding; original stove to all things of yesteryear, Bessie is sure to take you back to your childhood, or simply offer you an experience like never before whilst enabling you to enjoy a beautiful sea view thrown in for good measure.

Bessie is perfectly suited for two people, so if you’re looking for a romantic getaway, or simply feel like escaping from everything modern-day life has to throw at you, she’s an ideal choice.

Prices start at £200 for a short break. To find out more and to book Bessie for a break you’ll never forget, click here.

Adria to sponsor The Caravan Club National Rally for 2015

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by Joe Jeffrey

National looks set to be the best ever

Adria are to sponsor The Caravan Club National Rally for 2015.

The National 2015, which this year takes place in the historical grounds of Cornbury Park in Charlbury, Oxfordshire, takes place between 23 – 27 May 2015 (with an option for early arrival on the Friday before) and looks set to be a good one.

In what we’ve come to expect from previous Nationals, this year sees loads of free daytime entertainment, including arena displays, indoor and outdoor play areas courtesy of the Mayday Zone, a superb range of additional activities as well as workshops for all ages.

Evening entertainment meanwhile, consists of live music by renowned Bee Gees tribute act, Magic of the Bee Gees, Beyond the Baricade featuring West End and Broadway show music and a foot tapping tribute to Buddy Holly.

With a choice of all of the above and more, and with various pitch options available, including electric and non-electric pitches, as well as even the choice of daytime tickets, there really will be something for everyone – so what are you waiting for? Book your tickets here now.

Will you be heading to the National this year? Let us know what you’re looking forward to this year.

Swift launches new first time buyers information guide

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by Joe Jeffrey

Swift Group’s first time buyers guide set to assist first time caravanners

We all know how exhilarating caravanning can be, providing the type of freedom other holidays can’t. For many though, the thought of getting started is something that can hold one back from getting stuck in to everything the pastime has to offer.

From knowing what caravan to buy, to learning the rules of the road caravanning for the first time can be rather daunting. Swift Group, however, has launched a range of information to assist first time caravan buyers so it doesn’t have to be.

A new section of Swift’s website launched yesterday, with the aim to assist first time caravan buyers, launched yesterday covering everything a firs time buyer needs; from the basics of what a caravan can offer and how to choose the right one for you, to getting on the road and planning your holiday, it seems to cover the lot.

An informative video has also been launched entitled ‘The Basics and Getting Started’ which covers various topics including types of caravan available, choosing the right caravan for you, driving licences and towing and much more.
That’s not all though. This week (15 – 18 January ) at the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015, due to be held at EventCity in Manchester, Swift Group will be on hand to advise first time buyers, courtesy of their own dedicated First Time Buyers area. They will also be on hand at the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show at Birmingham’s NEC in February too (17 – 22 February).

Swift Group Commercial Director, Nick Page commented, “We have noticed there has been an increase in interest from people wanting to enjoy the freedom a caravan holiday can provide, but they don’t always know how to go about getting started. As a company we strive to offer excellent customer service and by providing a comprehensive range of information for the first time buyer we are extending this ethos to anyone who might be new to the caravan market. Our aim is to point them in the right direction and locate their local dealer who can then help them find a quality caravan.”

To read more about what Swift has done, head on over to Swift’s First Time Buyer’s page here now.

Tell us what you think. What was the most daunting thing you remember about caravanning when you were a newbie?

Burstner Elegance wins Used Motorhome of the Year category in CaravanTimes Caravan & Motorhome Awards 2014

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by Joe Jeffrey

Burstner Elegance wins reader’s poll in CaravanTimes Awards

The Burstner Elegance has beaten stiff competition to win the Used Motorhome of the Year category in the CaravanTimes Caravan & Motorhome Awards 2014.

In what was a race ’til the end, the Burstner Elegance drove into first place by receiving 18.10 per cent of reader’s votes, followed closely behind by the Swift Bolero with 17 percent of votes. A joint-third-place finish saw the Swift Sundance tie with the Auto-Trail Tracker, both attracting a 14.40 percent voting share.

The timeless Elegance, with its upscale features and masterful appearance certainly seems to have been a deserved winner in its class and that was all thanks to CaravanTimes members voting in their droves.

Once again, many thanks to all of you for taking part – without your input, the CaravanTimes Caravan & Motorhome Awards would not be possible.

A full breakdown of other categories can be found by visiting our community forums here.

Caravan park plans set for Maryport Marina In Cumbria

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by Joe Jeffrey

Plans revealed for new caravan park next to Maryport Marina in Cumbria

Plans have been unveiled for a new caravan park to be built next to Maryport Marina in Cumbria it has been revealed.

Maryport Harbour and Marina Ltd plans to utilise an area next to its offices to create space for up to 14 touring caravans, with hope that it will increase tourism in the area.

An application has been submitted to Allerdale council in order to install electricity and water points for use by caravaners, with plans to allow caravaners to have full access to the marina’s current washing and toilet facilities already in place.

If approved, the caravan park could be set to open as early as April this year and the season would run for six months from April to October.

Maryport Harbour and Marina general manager, Pauline Gorley, told the Times and Star: “People have often wanted to put caravans somewhere on the harbour.

“Tourism to Maryport is huge and to encourage people to come and stay here is very important.

“Why should people have to go and stay elsewhere in other towns and villages? We just feel now is the right time.”

Little Oaks naturist holiday park faces demolition to make way for new homes

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by Joe Jeffrey

West Sussex nudist holiday park popular with caravanners may be closed in order to make way for new homes development

Plans to build new homes on a plot of land occupied by a naturist holiday park have been submitted to Mid Sussex district council.

The 45 homes proposed to be built on a plot of land currently occupying Little Oaks Sun Club in Copthorne, West Sussex, would see a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments and two to four bedroom houses, 14 of which are said to be based on the government’s Affordable Homes Programme.

Little Oaks is surrounded by four acres of secluded woodland and accommodates tents, caravans and motorhomes. Facilities include tennis courts, a swimming pool, jacuzzi and sauna, with activities including quizzes, parties, firework displays and barbeques. We at CaravanTimes assume caution is taken when it’s time to turn the sausages.
What do you think? If these plans come into effect, would this be a travesty or should the naked campers and caravanners be forced to make way for new homes?

COMPETITION RESULTS: Have you won tickets to the EventCity Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015?

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by Joe Jeffrey

The results are in. Find out if you’ve won in our latest competition to win a pair of tickets to the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 Manchester

The EventCity Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 is upon us and in just a few days’ time Manchester will be inundated with thousands of people looking to make the most of what 2015 has to offer by way of caravans and motorhomes.

The event, running from 15 – 18 January will see the latest choice of caravans, motorhomes and holiday homes on display and, with over 300 exhibitors, you’d better bring some comfortable shoes!

It truly will be a fantastic day out for all the family with lots more on offer too, including celebrity speakers, expert advice, practical talks and exciting UK holiday ideas in one of the show’s main attractions, Great Days Out.

CaravanTimes offered you the opportunity to enter our latest competition to win a pair of tickets to the show and the winners are:

  • Fiona Costello
  • Michael Walklate
  • Gary Wilson
  • Alan Jones
  • Richard Caten
  • Sarah Woodward
  • Michael Homfray-Cooper
  • Craig Henderson
  • Chris Burnett
  • Peter Ireland
  • Mrs G G Spence
  • Colin Ford
  • Brian Nelson
  • Ann P Haynes
  • Ellen Higgins
  • Jay Forward
  • John Davies
  • Gerald Plaxton
  • Frances Parish
  • Sue Hawkins
  • Vicki Macguire
  • Sue Newbold
  • Julie Bolton
  • Margaret Bunn
  • Barry Kirby

Congratulations to all the above. We’ll be in contact shortly to discuss the tickets.

Don’t worry if you weren’t successful in winning tickets in our competition. You can still join in and be part of the fun by clicking here to buy your tickets for the Caravan & Motorhome Show 2015 now.

Make sure you keep checking back for more great competitions coming soon.

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Introducing the new Swift S-Pod – a new addition to the leisure industry for 2015

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by Joe Jeffrey

The new Swift S-Pod has arrived, and CaravanTimes went to take a look at Swift’s new versatile living space taking the industry by storm

2015 sees the introduction of the new, innovative S-Pod from Swift – a completely self-contained and flexible pod packed with innovative features.

Ideal for a number of different uses, the S-Pod is suitable for hotel grounds, fishing lakes, those looking for a weekend away or simply for use in the garden. The S-Pod offers something alternative to, but equally as comfortable as, your caravan or motorhome.

As with other Swift products, there has been a great deal of emphasis on quality with fixtures, fittings and construction. What’s more, 60mm bonded walls come as standard to provide insulation for year-round use – similar to all of Swift’s holiday homes.

Two layouts are available within the Swift S-Pod range, a two-berth and five-berth, meaning it’s ideal for couples or families/groups of friends alike. And the public we spoke to certainly agreed.

Check out our video above and let us know what you think. Can you think of anything else the S-Pod could be used for? And would you consider settling in one of these rather than your caravan or motorhome?

Goldschmitt: CaravanTimes takes a closer look at the think-tank from Odewald

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CaravanTimes speaks to TravelWorld to find out more about Goldschmitt’s suspension expertise and what to expect from the German manufacturer

When it comes to chassis accessories for European motorhomes, you’d be pretty hard-pressed to top Goldschmitt.

Highly regarded within the industry, having been established over thirty years ago, the Germany company continues to provide chassis suspension solutions by way of the company’s vast range of accessories – all of which are designed and manufactured to the highest standards possible.

Now, having joined ranks with the Hymer group, Goldschmitt looks set to extend its presence within the UK market even more courtesy of TravelWorld in Shropshire – exclusive dealers to the German motorhome powerhouse.

From rear and full air suspension to hydraulic self-levelling systems, Goldschmitt is renowned for its innovative technology, and to say we were pretty impressed when we went along to TravelWorld to find out more about the ‘think tank from Odenwald’ – as they are referred to – is a slight understatement.

Check out our video below and let us know what you think.

Cook up a treat with Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015 Campers Cookbook competition

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by Joe Jeffrey

Think your culinary creations are worthy of being immortalised in print? Well keep reading to find out how they can be!

A competition has been launched to find contributors for a brand new cookbook which could have your name written all over it – well, your signature dish at least.

The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015 is set to launch the Campers Cookbook and is looking for your tasty creations to include within its pages.

Show organisers are looking for 25 recipes across five categories to help campers and caravanners ensure they’re topped up with tasty treats when on holiday. The categories are:

  • One-pot wonders: Think you’re capable of cooking up a treat with just one single pot, pan or baking dish? Then this is a category for you
  • Low-cal lovelies: This category is good for the waistline, as all main meals listed here should be under 400 calories
  • Done in 60 seconds (or thereabouts): This is an ideal category for those that think they’ve got what it takes to rustle up a masterpiece in a minute
  • Very veggie: Make sure you put your thinking cap on for this meat-free zone in order to cook up a veggie delight
  • Cook with the kids: This category is for recipes that lend themselves well to cooking with kids aged 12 or under

If your recipe is chosen, not only will your recipe be immortalised in print, but those nice people at the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2015 are also throwing in a hard-back copy of the Campers Cookbook. Don’t worry if your recipe isn’t selected, however – all entrants will receive free entry to the Show.

To enter, all you need to do is simply email your recipe with a photograph of your dish being enjoyed away from home (say, in your caravan or motorhome) to campcook@pelicomms.co.uk by 24 January 2015.

All that remains to say is good luck. In the meantime, if you need any chief taste testers to approve your culinary delights, make sure you send them our way!

For full terms and conditions, please click here

Caravan and motorhome industry Freedom to Go campaign in the UK

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by Joe Jeffrey

NCC partners with The Caravan Club and Camping and Carvanning Club in campaign to attract younger leisure drivers

The National Caravan Council (NCC) has partnered with The Caravan Cub and Camping and Caravanning Cub to launch a joint awareness building campaign to promote the lifestyle benefits of caravan and motorhome holidays.

Designed to attract new audiences to this much-loved style of holiday, ‘Freedom to Go’ will draw on the appeal of the great outdoors and the freedom to explore that owning a ‘leisure vehicle’ presents.

Launching this month, the campaign will be supported by a 12 month strategy including press activity and a national print and digital advertising campaign.

The campaign will concentrate on showcasing all that British destinations have to offer, along with detailing unique adventures that touring holidays make possible, whilst recommending different types of leisure vehicles to those wishing to experience all it has to offer.

Robert Louden, MBE, Director General of The Camping and Caravanning Club said of the joint initiative: “Camping and caravanning is the perfect way to explore exciting new destinations and we want to help more people enjoy this fabulous pastime and share the same enthusiasm we feel for it.”

One of the campaign’s main objectives is to attract younger leisure vehicle owners, and we think it’s great news that the industry is coming together to support an initiative such like ‘Freedom to Go’ and can only mean great things for 2015, we’re sure.

Check out the official campaign website here.

What do you think about the new campaign? Do you think it will be hailed a success?

Drivers’ most popular New Year resolutions revealed in new poll

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by Joe Jeffrey

Driving more economically takes over from walking more for 2016 New Year resolutions

Economical driving has superseded the want to walk more as drivers’ top New Year resolution a populous survey conducted by the AA has found.

Despite petrol prices previously falling to an all-time low during 2015, with supermarket forecourts the land over battling it out to pull punters to the pumps, a majority of AA drivers (28 per cent) surveyed have resolved to drive more economically. This resolution just pips the second most popular resolution to walk more (27 per cent) to the post, which, incidentally, came in as the number one resolution in the same survey last year.

The New Years resolution survey results in full are as follows:

1. Drive more economically (28 per cent)
2. Walk more (27 per cent)
3. Drive more safely (16 per cent)
4. More courtesy on the road (14 per cent)
5. Drive less often (14 per cent)
6. Not break the speed limit so often (13 per cent)
7. Cycle more (12 per cent)
8. Drive less aggressively (8 per cent)
9. More courteous to cyclists (7 per cent)
10. Use a handheld mobile phone less (2 per cent)

Of the findings in the latest survey, AA president, Edmund King, said: “It seems many of us start the New Year with good intentions but often this doesn’t last. Even with prices at close to £1 a litre, many see fuel as an expensive but necessary commodity so rank ‘drive more economically’ at the top of their resolutions.

“Those who rated ‘walking more’ as second may be worried about reducing the impact of the turkey and Christmas pud, but they are also looking to save money. Some may say resolutions are made to be broken but we hope the 50 per cent more males than females, who said they would ‘drive less aggressively’ and be ‘more courteous to cyclists’, stick to their resolutions.”

Have you made any New Year resolutions as far as hitting the road with your trusty caravan is concerned? It would be interesting to know what they are if you have.