by Myron Jobson
London is a magnificent city that attracts visitors from remote parts of the country and worldwide, including caravan and motorhome enthusiasts.
You may be forgiven in assuming that caravanning in London is a paradox, because of its long narrow roads and chock-a-block traffic jams, which make it extremely difficult to safely transport a caravan around the capital.
However, this should not put caravanners off, because there are many caravan parks in and around London that offer people the opportunity to explore the wonders of the city without any of the hassle.
Good alternative to hotels
With demand for hotel rooms in the capital ever growing, and worst still, the inflation of hotel room prices, people are looking for viable alternatives, with caravan park stays becoming increasingly popular.
Nick Boothroyd, Communications Officer of Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park in Edmonton, North London agrees.
“They are a great alternative allowing visitors to enjoy peaceful surroundings in the countryside whilst still being close to numerous attractions,” he said.
He added: “Caravan parks also offer excellent value for money.”
The Caravan Club’s PR Officer, Beverley Larion, also spoke of the benefits of caravanning as an alternative to hotels.
“Today’s caravans offer great comfort, space and facilities so they’re a great alternative to hotels,” she said.
What does a caravan holiday in London offer?
London is home to spectacular, world-renowned landmarks such as Big Ben, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament, so it’s no wonder tourists from all over the world come to visit.
It hosts many activities to suit even the pickiest of individuals ranging from sightseeing and shopping to theatres trips and exhibitions.
London is a hub for a buzzing nightlife, with hundred of bars, clubs, pubs and cinemas for visitors to enjoy.
The great thing about caravan parks in and around the capital is that you are never too far from the action.
Visitors of Lee Valley Caravan Park can catch a bus from the site every 15 minutes to Edmonton Green Railway station which runs a direct connection to the city in less than an hour.
Similarly, Crystal Palace Caravan Club Site provides an accessible route to the heart of capital. Visitors can take a bus straight into London and Travelcards can be bought on site.
Best of both worlds
For those who are looking for a simpler retreat in a tranquil scenic environment, they can find it with the many caravan parks in and around London.
“Some people come because of the proximity to London and convenience of travelling into the centre, others for peaceful and tranquil surroundings and proximity to the Herts and Essex countryside,” Nick said, commenting on why people visit the Lee valley site.
With over 1,000 acres of the River Lee Country Park and Epping Forest on the doorstep, the site offers a fantastic opportunity for those looking to spend some time living life in the slow lane.
What do people say?
Lee Valley has achieved an impressive four star rating on Trip Advisor. One happy customer wrote: “There are lovely walks along canals with pubs and café just across the road and an Asda and Sainsbury’s five minute drive away.
“We went to London by train which is only ten minutes away making this camp site ideally located.”
The Caravan Club Crystal Palace site has received equally impressive reviews.
“Lovely clean site, easy walk to local shops and many trendy restaurants and bars with a great choice of food.
“Walk to Crystal Palace station down the hill and buy a one-day travelcard for £7 and use this all day to discover all of the sights in the capital, this includes overground train/underground and buses, only 20 minutes by train to London Victoria,” said a caravan enthusiast.
Costs
A caravan retreat in London does not require taking out a second mortgage.
The average price for a hotel room per night for a family of four in London is substantially more than the cost of a pitch, with most ranging from £100 upwards.
Whereas, it only costs £23 per night – excluding special offers – to stay at Crystal Palace Caravan Club site; and just over £25 per night at Lee Valley, around four times less than an average hotel.
“With prices ranging from £20-£30 per couple, per pitch and including electric hook up per night, they offer excellent value for money,” Beverley added.
It has been a good summer for caravanning with some caravanning and campsite directory websites reporting an up to 20% increase in the summer months.
With great facilities, local amusements and an impressive price point, it’s easy to see why London caravan parks are among the big winners in this trend.
