6 iconic trees to visit in the UK

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The UK recently lost one of its most iconic trees in the Sycamore Gap at Hadrian’s Wall, with the 50-foot staple of Northumberland National Park being cut down overnight in an act of vandalism that authorities described as deliberate.

At CaravanTimes, we are choosing to look at the positive side. Although we have lost one of the country’s most famous trees, we’re lucky in that there are thousands of others to visit.

With the help of the experts at StressFreeCarRental.com, we’ve compiled a list of six UK trees that should definitely be on your radar for your next caravan or motorhome staycation.

John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com, commented: “As well as being stunning to look at, trees are a wildlife sanctuary and great for mental wellbeing, so consider taking a trip to enjoy them in their full glory this autumn.”

So, from Argyll’s Wishing Tree to the Horror Tree of Suffolk, here are some of the best Britain has to offer.

Major Oak, Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire

The second most famous resident of Sherwood Forest, following Robin Hood himself, Major Oak is one of Britain’s oldest trees. 

Although nobody knows its true age, it’s estimated to have been standing for between 800 and 1,100 years. That means it’s outlived the Vikings, the birth and death of Shakespeare, two world wars and more than 50 monarchs.

The Horror Tree, Stowlangtoft, Suffolk

There are no prizes for guessing the Horror Tree is rather unsightly. With its wonky eyes, crooked teeth and twisted snout, the 70-ft beech is not for the faint of heart.

The tree is known for its terrifying face, creepily reminiscent of Edvard Munch’s Scream, although others say the beech tree is very similar to the Whomping Willow in Harry Potter. 

So, If you’re planning a caravan or motorhome holiday over the Halloween period, this is definitely a spot that should be considered. Trees don’t often come as unsettling as this one.

The Ankerwycke Yew, Berkshire

Thought to be 2,500 years old, this yew is said to be the oldest tree in England and is steeped in history. Impressively, it is documented to be the tree where Henry VIII proposed to Anne Boleyn, so it’s a historical and romantic spot… despite the tragic fate of Boleyn.

In addition to the fantastic tree, which boasts wonderful views of the Berkshire countryside, visitors will also be able to wander through the ruins of Ankerwycke Priory. First erected in 1160, the site was home to Benedictine nuns for hundreds of years, until being finally dissolved in 1550.

Although the priory has been repaired several times, it has been in decline since the 1800s and only a small number of walls remain to be seen today.

Boscobel House English Oak, Stafford

King Charles II famously refuged in The Royal Oak Tree in Boscobel House, following the 1651 English Civil War battle to evade capture. 

The tree standing today isn’t the original, which is known to have been destroyed by tourists, but a 200 to 300-year-old descendent of the iconic Royal Oak – aptly named ‘Son of Royal Oak’. It is protected by iron railings, installed back in 1817 due to the prestige and significance of the tree. 

Birnam Oak, Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross

Celebrated in the play Macbeth, this ancient tree is a survivor of Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood. Located just outside the Perthshire village, it serves as a final reminder of the once bustling forest, which spanned the banks and hillsides of the River Tay.

Birnam Oak and its neighbour, the Birnam Sycamore, have a medieval feel. The lower branches of the oak rest on the ground, with the first three metres of its trunk being hollow. The sycamore is thought to be more than 300 years old and boasts especially impressive buttress roots.

Ardmaddy Wishing Tree, Argyll

Situated half a mile south of Ardmaddy Castle, the Wishing Tree has long been associated with rituals and magic. The nearly dead fallen hawthorn has hundreds of coins embedded in its bark.

This tree has an extensive history of being considered sacred, with thousands of visitors having surrendered coins in exchange for the chance to make wishes. Now, the Wishing Tree is fenced off to protect it from damage.

Photo credit: Luke Galloway / Unsplash

Creepy villages for a Halloween touring trip

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Spooky season is well underway, making now a great time to add some of Europe’s creepiest villages to your touring trip. If you’re taking the caravan or motorhome to the continent for October half term, it’s the perfect opportunity to get into the Halloween mood.

To help you find the scariest locations, StressFreeCarRental.com has put together a list of creepy villages to explore.

Bran, Romania

Nowhere conjures up Halloweeny thoughts quite like Transylvania, which is home to the iconic Dracula Castle. The imposing structure looms over the village and can be seen dominating the countryside. Celebrate Halloween in its shadows or explore the castle’s hidden passageways and discover its medieval torture instruments.

Triora, Italy

The Italian village of Triora has a dark history. After the poor harvest of 1587 was blamed on a group of women who lived secluded lives and understood the benefits of medicinal herbs, more than 300 of them were tried as witches. Some 50 individuals were tortured and killed as a result, giving it the reputation as the Salem of Italy. Visit the Museum of Etnografie and Witchcraft to discover this gruesome past.

Pluckley, England

If the Guinness Book of Records suggests a village is the most haunted in England, then you take note. No fewer than a dozen ghosts are said to be resident in the Kent village of Pluckley. Look out for the likes of a drowned gypsy woman, a hanged schoolmaster and a woman who haunts St Nicolas’ churchyard before you try to cosy down in your caravan or motorhome and get some sleep.

Ochate, Spain

Upon first sight, the abandoned village of Ochate feels spooky simply due to the potential for anything to be lurking around each corner. When you add to that the fact it was deemed cursed after three epidemics – smallpox, typhoid fever and cholera in 1860, 1864 and 1870 respectively – hit the village without affecting surrounding areas, things get even creepier. There have been reports of strange lights and mysterious voices telling those who explore Ochate to get out.

Roslin, Scotland

The Midlothian village of Roslin is famous for the late-gothic Rosslyn Chapel, which was featured in the Da Vinci Code. Its original crypt has been sealed off for many years, only adding to the mystery and allowing numerous rumours to take hold. Among them are that inside you’ll find the Holy Grail or the mummified head of Jesus Christ. Also, watch out for the ghosts of a knight on horseback and a woman in white.

Skrinjari, Croatia

Be careful towing your leisure vehicle in the vicinity of the Croatian village of Skrinjari, as it’s renowned for being the site of many traffic accidents. Not only this, but the Skrinjari House, which has now been abandoned, is said to be cursed after builders constructed the edifice on top of a cemetery, allegedly waking the dead. Many who visit say they feel an unidentified sense of unease around the property.

Tintern, Wales

Locals are said to stay away from St Mary’s Church in Tintern, as the ruins have a looming presence. Evidence of satanic rituals has been uncovered at the site in the past and ghosts of monks seen roaming around. Perhaps these lost spirits are visiting from the nearby Tintern Abbey, which was once home to some 400 religious men, many of whom died from the Black Death.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Anna Mircea

Bailey to debut concept EV at NEC

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

As Bailey of Bristol gears up to debut its electric concept panel van conversion, Endeavour EV, at the Motorhome and Caravan Show next week, I sat down with the team behind it. While the groundbreaking design isn’t set to hit the market any time soon, it’s a fascinating look at the future of leisure vehicles.

What’s clear to see from speaking to Simon Howard, marketing director, and Chloe Bartlett, lead designer, is that they’re incredibly proud of the innovation. It also appears that the designers were given free rein to work with many sustainable materials they hadn’t used before.

That’s the beauty of setting out to create a concept model that’s as sustainable as possible. There’s the discovery of products that hadn’t before been considered that may well make it into other areas of the range. For example, Simon said the recycled boucle fabric could become an added extra customers could opt for on a standard Endeavour.

The fully operational panel van conversion is based on the Ford Pro’s E-Transit platform, with all services and appliances being fully electric. Everything from the work surfaces, upholstery fabrics and furniture handles are made from low-carbon recycled materials. Other exciting features include an adaptable living space with working, lounging and sleeping modes, a voice-controlled lighting system and solar panels.

 

Inside the Endeavour EV.

 

Asking Simon about Bailey’s dedication to sustainability and the additional costs associated with it, he told me the approach was really driven by the younger members of the team. He said they want to work with a company putting the environment first and that’s reflected not just in Bailey’s manufacturing processes, but also things like waste removal at its HQ.

What I really wanted to know was whether the Endeavour EV was likely to be included in the Bailey Big Adventure. There’s still a long way to go before the concept vehicle becomes a reality and its range is up to a standard that would satisfy the market.

Range is currently at 108 miles, which rules it out of travelling to the likes of the Sahara or the Arctic. What the future holds for the Endeavour EV, however, is a case of watching this space. We’ll certainly be following its progress with interest.

The Motorhome and Caravan Show will be held from October 17th to 22nd at the NEC in Birmingham. The Bailey team invites you to approach their stand and find out all about the Endeavour EV for yourself.

How to protect your caravan from bed bugs

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Just the thought of bed bugs is enough to make your skin crawl and there’s been plenty of talk in the press about the fact that they’ve become a huge problem in Paris. Next stop, the UK. Bed bugs spread easily and the last thing you want is an infestation in your caravan.

Here’s what you can do to protect yourself against the dreaded critters:

Prevention is better than the cure

Once bed bugs move in, it’s very difficult to get them out, so the best thing is to be vigilant and prevent an infestation in the first place. When bringing any fabric-based item into the caravan or motorhome, check it carefully, as bed bugs love to hide along the seams.

Common places include sleeping bags and bedding, pet beds and clothing. Wash linens at a high temperature to destroy bed bugs and if you’re packing your leisure vehicle duvets away for the winter, consider storing them in vacuum bags.

Check your caravan or motorhome for any holes where bed bugs could potentially get in or hide. These include spaces between pipes or spaces under doors, both of which should be fairly easy to seal up.

Keeping as clutter-free as possible and regularly vacuuming are good ways to ensure bed bugs can’t take hold. These measures will also help you to spot telltale signs of the critters as early as possible.

Dealing with bed bugs

Evidence of bed bugs can come in a number of forms, including:

  • Spots of blood on your bedding
  • Bites in a row on your skin
  • Brown specks on your sheets
  • Exoskeletons left behind

If you discover any of these, it’s time to take action and quickly. The first thing to do is quarantine any affected areas or items to prevent the critters from spreading. Bed bugs are killed at 60°C, so washing fabrics at a high temperature or steaming them out are viable options.

Since bed bugs measure just five millimetres across, are tough, quick to reproduce and good at hiding, multiple approaches may be required to eliminate them. Vacuum infested areas and then remove the bag and dispose of it securely.

The next method is to treat your caravan or motorhome with an insecticide. Many of these are made from chemicals, but you can also get plant oil-based bed bug sprays that are very effective.

Last resort

Your bed bug elimination strategy needs to be well-considered and thorough if it’s to work. Even those who approach it with a multi-tactic approach sometimes have to call in the professionals to do a proper fumigation.

This usually means letting the treatment work for two to three days, so you may have to postpone any touring trips. Keeping out of the way of the chemicals is important for human health, but they should leave your caravan or motorhome bed bug-free.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Clay Banks

The best UK cities to improve your mental wellbeing

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As World Mental Health Day arrives on Tuesday 10th October, plenty of Brits might be considering ditching the hustle and bustle of city life for a leisure vehicle holiday to the countryside.

However, lots of UK cities are ideal for spending time away from everyday life, lowering your stress levels and relaxing to boost your mental wellbeing.

For instance, Norwich is a fantastic destination to practise ecotherapy, being Britain’s only city located within a national park. Elsewhere, you could soak up a stressless afternoon at Bath’s historic hot water spa, or get lost among a plethora of charming independent shops on the streets of Edinburgh.

To raise awareness for World Mental Health Day and encourage people to de-stress, the experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have compiled a list of eight UK cities offering a range of relaxing activities.

Of course, what appeals to some will seem stressful to others. So, here are some suggestions to decompress on your next caravan or motorhome trip:

Norwich

Ideally located within the Broads National Park, Norwich is connected to the countryside via miles and miles of walkable pathways. These routes are mainly flat and a great way to get outside to enjoy nature.

Brighton

Being by the sea is always a calming presence, but for those who don’t like their coastal retreats too quiet, there’s Brighton. Return from a bracing seaside walk to a nostalgic trip to the pier or the city’s bustling night scene.

Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital is a literary city and its selection of bookshops and cafes makes it perfect for purchasing some new reading material then sitting down and enjoying it. Arthur’s Seat is also conveniently located for an energetic walk right from the city.

Exeter

Sometimes the best way to reset your mental wellbeing is to spend some quality time on your own and Exeter is perfect for that. Wander its museums, parks and coffee shops on a solo date before reuniting with loved ones.

Bath

There’s nothing much more relaxing than having a soak, especially if you’re spending a week in a caravan, so a spa city sounds like an appropriate antidote. Submerge yourself in the hot spring waters at the Thermae Bath Spa.

Manchester

Music is a fantastic outlet for emotions from anxiety to elation, so a trip to the city that’s produced all manner of musicians from Take That to The Smiths is a great way to embrace this creative medium. Manchester’s music scene is known worldwide and features some impressive venues to discover.

Bristol

Vegans can travel to Bristol safely in the knowledge they won’t just be able to find a good plant-based meal easily, but they’ll be spoilt for choice. Even non-vegans might want to try out the alternative diet and enjoy a boost in mood from plenty of veggies.

Oxford

Hire a boat, pedalo or a traditional punt to explore the storied city of Oxford from its waterways. The slow pace of life encourages those on the river to relax and notice more of what’s going on around them in the natural environment.

John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: “We want to encourage as many people as we can to try and take some time out to do something good for their own mental health as well as the contentment of those around them.

“Cities can feel like stressful lonely places at times which is why we wanted to highlight that there are always things to do to unwind and let go of life’s troubles.”

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Kampus Production

Dan Cartwright’s leisure vehicle bucket list

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

Being a part of the CaravanTimes team as a leisure vehicle journalist has afforded me some amazing experiences that I’m incredibly grateful for.

I’m acutely conscious of how privileged I am to be a judge for numerous Caravan and Motorhome Club (CAMC) staples, like the Towcar of the Year and Caravan Design Awards. On the job, I’ve travelled to far-flung destinations, tested the latest and greatest leisure vehicles and been on international tours. Don’t get me wrong – I know I’m a very lucky man.

But just like you, I have dreams. Unlike many people though, my dreams involve Arctic trailers and smashing land speed records. If you have any leisure vehicle bucket list items, I’d love to hear them.

But for now, here are four things I’d love to achieve. Some are more realistic than others and people may doubt me, but you can’t stop a man from dreaming.

1. Self-convert an Arctic trailer

Honestly, I’d just love to see the space available and what you could do with it. I think it would be heavenly to spend a year in my garden with the tools, just making it exactly how I want it to be.

I don’t know if I could afford the towcar, which would probably need to be an articulated lorry. But I could afford the trailer, so that’s a start. Although, I’m unsure if many campsites would let me in.

2. Beat the land speed towing record

This currently stands at 140 mph and is owned by an American, which to me, feels wrong. Additionally, that speed feels tantalisingly possible. Of course, this would require a lot of preparation and an appropriate runway, but with modern EVs, I think it’s becoming more realistic.

My understanding is that you’re not allowed to modify the caravan in any way and you must drive a production towcar. But, to bring a land speed record back to the UK would be a dream for me and the wider leisure vehicle industry.

3. Tour Europe all summer long

I want to spend an entire summer holiday touring Europe with the family. We’d use the CAMC site network to take advantage of places with expansive swimming pools and huge slides. Hopefully, there’ll be something for the kids too.

My children are five and seven years old, so realistically, I’ve only got about eight years left to achieve this bucket list item. In theory, it seems quite reasonable, but taking six weeks off from work suddenly makes breaking the land speed towing record seem easier.

4. Pass down my T25

I intend to keep my 1982 Volkswagen T25 in working order so that I can pass it down to my daughter as her first vehicle.

Whilst it doesn’t have airbags, it can only do about 40 mph anyway, so I always feel safe. Also, she’ll have to learn how to fix it, which is a very smart way of ensuring she’ll visit her parents regularly, as I’ll inevitably have to do it myself.

Having translated this from a thought in my head to an article on CaravanTimes, I realise that some of these are certainly more achievable than others, but that’s what a bucket list is for!

Photo credit: derwiki / Pixabay

The best autumnal walking trails in the UK

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With more than 60 million views under the #hikinglife hashtag on TikTok and a 200 per cent increase in searches for the term ‘hiking holidays UK’ in the past 90 days, there’s no doubt that Brits want to make the most of the season by lacing up their walking boots and hitting the trails.

Hiking often goes hand-in-hand with caravan and motorhome holidays. There’s nothing quite like taking in the great outdoors in all of its glory. With that in mind, the experts at holidaycottages.co.uk have highlighted some of the best autumn walks, with a mix of those more suited to the #softhiking group and some highly challenging trails.

Sarah Pring, PR manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, said: “Britain has fantastic walks at every corner, that suit a range of needs and abilities. We wanted to create a helpful tool where people can enter a postcode and see all nearby walks to their holiday accommodation.”

To use the interactive map, simply head over to the website and enter your postcode to see trails near you, with the option to filter based on distance, difficulty and other factors.

1. Heddon Valley, Devon

From the wooded valley to rocky beaches, this trail’s diverse landscape makes it a perfect walk for an autumn day. On the easier side of the scale, this two-mile stretch is ideal for beginners, or for more experienced walkers looking for a casual stroll.

2. Tintern Abbey and Devil’s Pulpit, Wye Valley

This moderately difficult, 7.5-mile path takes visitors through the breathtaking ruins of the 12th-century Cistercian abbey. When the leaves scatter throughout the grounds, it makes for a superb sight for experienced hikers, or beginners looking to push themselves a bit further.

3. Beatrix Potter Walk, Lake District

For fans of literature as well as hiking, a stroll around Windermere and the villages of Near and Far Sawrey and Hawkshead will transport you into the world of Beatrix Potter.

At 13 miles, this walk is ideal for those who would like a challenging hike on a brisk autumn day, while learning more about the history of one of Britain’s most celebrated authors.

4. Blakeney Freshes, Norfolk

Set against views of the stunning Norfolk Coast Path, this is a straightforward, three-mile walk with stunning scenery across the sea, marshes and Blakeney National Nature Reserve.

Bird lovers might be particularly interested in this one, with an abundance of wildlife waiting to be spotted. On a cold autumn morning, you’ll notice the mist rising and some lucky hikers will see the golden plovers.

5. Corfe Castle, Dorset

The National Trust’s Corfe Castle is one of the UK’s most iconic remnants of the English Civil War and makes the list of Britain’s most photographed sites. The beauty of walking here is that your route can be adjusted to suit however long or short you’d like it to be. 

For a longer stroll, head from Corfe Castle Square up to Kimmeridge Bay on the South West Coast Path. If a shorter hike is what you’re after, you can simply walk around the village and up to the castle.

Photo credit: Tatiana Syrikova / Pexels

Escape the crowds with these alternative Spanish attractions

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As the UK transitions into autumn, it can be tempting to head abroad in your caravan or motorhome looking for warmer temperatures. Spain, especially the south, is a good bet for some late sunshine, as well as plenty of fascinating attractions to discover.

Many of Spain’s cities have campsites within close proximity, meaning you can pitch up then head into the likes of Seville or Barcelona to explore. Even after the busy summer months, many of the headline sights can feel overcrowded, so it’s worth making your way to some alternatives instead.

With this in mind, Spain-Holiday and Holidu have put together a list of attractions to swap in for some of the more famous ones. So, forget the Sagrada Familia and the Alhambra and check these out on your next touring trip to Spain.

Swap Paseo del Prado for El Escorial

Madrid’s Paseo del Prado is an iconic promenade lined with historic buildings and museums. It’s been an important thoroughfare in the Spanish capital since the 16th century and as such has been granted World Heritage status by UNESCO.

Instead of facing the crowds on the Paseo, head to El Escorial just outside of Madrid. This monastery and accompanying gardens are just as impressive as the city centre attraction. Explore the chapel and library, as well as the green space that once grew vegetables for the monks, but now is an expansive botanical garden.

Skip the Sagrada Familia in favour of Palau de la Musica Catalana

Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished cathedral, the Sagrada Familia, has become synonymous with a trip to Barcelona and received nearly four million visitors last year. Its enduring allure may in part be due to the fact that on each visit tourists can see the progress that’s been made towards its expected completion in 2026.

Just as spectacular in terms of architecture but often overlooked is the Palau de la Musica Catalana. Lluis Domenech i Montaner’s art nouveau masterpiece features world-class stained glass and is open for both guided tours and musical performances.

Pass up the Alhambra for Medina Azahara

The high demand for tickets to the Alhambra and the need to book in advance are testament to the popularity of Granada’s hilltop Moorish palace. Its decorative arches and elaborate tilework have become iconic, while meandering around the formal gardens is an intrinsic part of the Alhambra experience.

Why settle for a Moorish palace when you could explore an entire city? Pack up the caravan or motorhome and head for Medina Azahara, just outside of Cordoba. Dating back to the 10th century and with a stunning backdrop of the Sierra Morena mountain range, the ruined city is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Replace Cathedral de Santa Maria de la Sede with Archivo de Indios

Seville makes up the third corner of Andalucia’s Golden Triangle, along with Granada and Cordoba, so a road trip between the trio is popular. Also appealing is the city’s gothic cathedral with its towering Giralda bell tower, which when scaled, offers unparalleled views of Seville and beyond.

Skip the queue at the Giralda and spend a day at the Archivo de Indios instead. Here you’ll find renaissance architecture, as well as historic tapestries, artefacts and documents telling the story of Spain’s exploits across the world.

 

Photo credit: Jocelyn Erskine-Kellie via Flickr

TCOY results and what it’s like towing with a £250,000 Bentley

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

Once again, I’ve been given the huge privilege of being a judge at the Towcar of the Year (TCOY) Awards. 

This is vital for learning about the latest vehicles, as you can’t test how a car tows without towing something and you can’t take your caravan to a dealership and see how different towcars perform.

Each year, there is significant variation between the best and the worst. Other than previous category winners, predicting which models will come out on top is incredibly difficult.

You can view the full list of winners at the Caravan and Motorhome Club (CAMC) TCOY awards here, whilst the announcement video can be viewed below.

Rather than list each winner in every category – which you could easily view on the CAMC website or in the video – I’d rather share some of my thoughts on this year’s awards. So, here are some of my top points from being a specialist driving judge for five days of testing.

The overall winner was the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Platinum Edition

The Porsche Cayenne has won its category every time it’s entered in the last two years. This includes different engine configurations – both pure internal combustion and hybrid. It’s a fantastic towcar and, it feels strange to say as a man from Doncaster, but I feel very uneasy about saying you should go and buy a Porsche.

The Porsche Cayenne

 

However, it really is that good. I think the association with the Porsche badge has potentially held it back from being the overall winner in previous years, where the panel had its reservations about telling people the best towcar is a luxury sports vehicle. Frankly, it is.

I can’t believe I’m making a practical case for the Porsche, but have a look at the price difference between a Cayenne, Landrover Discovery, Audi Q9 and Volvo V60. Even new, it’s minimal.

Compared to the competition, the Cayenne is priced very reasonably in the new market. Even better, they make a fantastic second-hand purchase. You can pick up a 2009 or 2010 model, with a full service history, for around £5,000 to £7,000.

So… yeah. I can’t really believe it, but the Porsche is a brilliant choice, practical and a very, very good towcar. It’s a lot of fun to drive without a caravan too!

What was it like to tow in a Bentley Bentayga?

There’s no way I wasn’t going to talk about this! To tell you the truth, towing with the Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase was fantastic. Not everybody has a quarter of a million pounds lying around for their next towcar, but if you do, you won’t be disappointed.

The Bentayga in action

 

While the Bentayga is obviously designed to carry rear passengers in not just comfort, but abject luxury, with a champagne fridge and matching glasses, the driving experience is phenomenal.

It has an amazing throttle response, an engine that sounds like a 1980s Formula 1 car and an incredible level of stability, even at high speeds. No matter how close a lorry comes alongside the Bentayga, you won’t even notice. Much like the Porsche, it’s very fun when not towing as well!

The judges’ award

This year, we introduced a judges’ award category. The winner was well-deserved and a vehicle that didn’t win its own weight class – the Ford Puma ST-Line 1.0 Mhev 155ps 6-speed manual.

With the Bailey Discovery in tow, the Puma was an absolute joy. In a world of huge SUVs, diesel big blocks and pure electric outputs, we never thought a one-litre, mid-range Ford would be such a capable and pleasurable drive, but it really was.

The Puma towing

 

In its class, it was up against the all-electric VW ID. Buzz, which is weighted to tow a small caravan and, as you’d guess, coped incredibly well. However, the Ford truly deserved a mention and, being a car that anyone could have on their drive, we were all very impressed.

So, if you own a Puma and haven’t towed with it before, go out and have some fun.

Power source developments

Over the last few years, we’ve seen pure electric and hybrid vehicles become more and more prevalent in the TCOY awards. What’s really pleasing is they’re now entering heavier weight categories.

For example, the second-heaviest category (1,500kg to 1,700kg) was won by the Polestar 2.

Of all the winners this year, we saw an even match when it came to power sources, with four internal combustion, four pure electric and three hybrid vehicles. 

To me, this says EVs are really taking the caravan market seriously. I’ve written previously about what makes them so good and, aside from range issues, the electric towcars that won this year really do stand out as luxurious, practical and comfortable.

Pick-up trucks

Pick-ups are very close to my heart, having used them a lot over the years. Recently, the TCOY winner in this category has always been the VW Amarok, which is a very nice truck and a great towcar.

This year, however, it was pipped by the new Ford Ranger Wildtrak. These are incredibly popular on UK roads and the 2023 model is an extremely capable towcar. Most importantly, it was really nice to see some variation in the category.

The Ford Ranger

 

Full disclosure: I own a 2022 Ranger. Unfortunately, it’s the two-litre bi-turbo model, which was the only one available when I bought it. This is a much less capable towcar.

My recommendation for anyone looking to purchase a Ranger is to go for either an older 3.6-litre or the newer three-litre.

One other worthy winner, in my opinion, was the Nissan ARIYA 87kWh Evolve e-4ORCE. This shocked all of the judges, not only for its towing ability, but also because of its beautiful interior.

The towcar has a very well-put-together feel about it, with an amazing power train to boot. If you’re in the market for an EV, Nissan was previously doing well with its Leaf, but may well have surpassed expectations with its new ARIYA.

Photo credit: Caravan and Motorhome Club

How to steer clear of hefty caravan fines

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Caravan holidays have soared in popularity in the UK since the pandemic, with no signs of slowing down any time soon.

Brits enjoyed 3.7 million caravan holidays in 2019, a number which rose to 4.3 million in 2022. Recent data suggests that by now, almost a quarter of the UK’s adult population has been on a staycation.

Although most of us would agree that summer is the ideal time to get away, the autumn months offer lower costs and a wider range of options. So, if you’re looking to steer clear of crowded campsites and heavy traffic, a September or October adventure should be on the cards.

With that in mind, Russell Ferreira, towing expert and owner of Diamond Trailers, has summed up the possible fines and penalty points you could accumulate when towing a caravan, as well as how to avoid them.

Overloading

One of the most common reasons caravanners are hit with fines is overloading. Every vehicle has a maximum weight limit and exceeding it can lead you to trouble, both financially and for safety reasons.

Overloading fines vary depending on the extent to which you have surpassed the caravan’s limit, but you could face a penalty of up to £300 for minor violations. So, make sure to check the weight, as well as its distribution, before you set off.

Speeding

Speeding while towing a caravan is another offence that you could accidentally commit, as the legal limit is lower than it is for cars. On motorways, you must not exceed 60 mph, whilst on single-carriageway roads it’s 50 mph.

Getting caught speeding could land you a fine of up to £1,000. Familiarise yourself with speed limits whilst towing and always stick to them when you’re heading on a caravan holiday.

Overtaking

Caravan drivers should always be aware of overtaking restrictions. If you attempt to pass another vehicle by travelling across a solid white line, you could end up with a fine of up to £1,000 and penalty points on your licence.

The combined length of a caravan and towcar means that if you are in a position to overtake legally, you must always exercise caution and patience, as it will likely take longer to pass than you think.

Incorrect number plates

Your caravan must display the same number plate as the towing vehicle. If not, you could be hit with a fine of up to £1,000. Ensure that your caravan complies with the regulations, which include the size, font and spacing of the characters.

Inadequate towing equipment

Towing a caravan without the proper equipment is not only dangerous to yourself and others, but also could leave you with a hefty penalty. Make sure your rig meets safety standards and is appropriate for the weight and size of your caravan, or you could find yourself paying up to £2,500 in fines.

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Wet weather driving tips that could save lives

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The UK is braced for heavy rain and strong winds from this week, as Storm Agnes makes its way across from the Atlantic. Some areas of Britain are forecast to suffer from gusts as strong as 75 mph, whilst the majority of the country has been issued a Yellow Warning for wind.

Whether you’re towing in a car or driving a motorhome, cold and damp conditions require you to alter your habits on the road. Luckily, Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, has highlighted some of the most important tips when it comes to driving in wet weather.

Demist your windows

Cleaning your windows can be tedious, especially if you need to be somewhere in a hurry. However, wet weather causes them to mist up, which can be hazardous to yourself and other drivers on the road.

To combat this, ensure your heater is set to blast warm air against the windscreen and remember to activate the demist button for your back windscreen. Your air conditioning system is a great help too, as it removes moisture from the interior of your vehicle.

Slow down at junctions

When the roads are slippery, it’s easier for your vehicle to skid. So, be gentle with your accelerator when pulling out of junctions or roundabouts, and allow for additional braking distance when slowing down.

Avoid the big coat

Alongside the wet weather, we’re also set to see a significant drop in temperatures soon. Of course, that means the winter jackets will be coming out of storage, but avoid wearing a puffy coat whilst behind the wheel.

A big, bulky jacket can impede your movements while driving. This is set out in the Highway Code, which states that you must ensure “clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner.”

Drive defensively

A turn in the weather should mean that every road user operates their vehicle with more caution. Well, we all know that isn’t the case, so at least ensure you’re playing your part.

If it’s pouring outside and rain is splashing up off the road, drive slower than you normally would and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you.

Turn your lights on

Rule 113 of the Highway Code states that you “must use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced” and if you fail to do so, you could be looking at a fine of up to £1,000 as a result.

Additionally, when visibility is “seriously reduced” to 100 metres or less, it might be appropriate to switch on your fog lights. Avoid using these unless you find yourself in extreme weather, as they can dazzle other road users and create a hazard.

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Tour the best UK cities for book lovers this September

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There is a certain feeling associated with opening the pages of a new book. Whether fresh off the press or pre-loved and second-hand, we wouldn’t blame you for quickly finding yourself swept up in a world of fascinating stories and characters.

September is Read a New Book Month and represents the perfect chance to inspire a different type of adventure in your caravan or motorhome. While many owners will be familiar with cosying down in your leisure vehicle with a book on rainy days, we’re talking about exploring real-life literary destinations.

To mark the month, Aura Print has put together a list of the best cities for book lovers in the UK. So, get ready to wander in the footsteps of Jane Austen and JK Rowling, and discover bookshops to stock up on volumes for those autumn evenings in your caravan or motorhome that are on their way.

York

York took the top spot as the best UK city for book lovers, boasting the highest number of reading spots per 100,000 people among all cities analysed. Home to 20 libraries and 33 highly rated bookshops, check out Minster and King’s Manor Libraries, as well as Grimoire Bookshop and Fossgate Books.

Bath

It’s hard not to think of Jane Austen as you wander around the Regency architecture of Bath. In fact, the city hosts a festival dedicated to the author every September. Why not head to Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights and treat yourself to a new copy of Persuasion to enjoy in your caravan?!

Belfast

Take your leisure vehicle on the ferry across the Irish Sea to Belfast and discover its 18 libraries and 55 charming bookshops. Author CS Lewis was born in the city and the square bearing his name is full of sculptures from characters in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Getting up close to Aslan is an absolute must-do for fans.

Bristol

Bristol secured fourth place on the list, thanks to its treasure trove of independent and secondhand bookshops. In fact, there are 17.41 bookstores per 100,000 people who live in the city. Get your hands on Angela Carter’s Bristol Trilogy – Shadow Dance, Several Perceptions and Love – to enjoy while exploring the city and lookout for local landmarks like Cabot Tower, Bristol Museum and Arnolfini, which feature among their pages.

Edinburgh

The Scottish capital is awash with locations associated with literary figures. We’re looking at you JK Rowling and Sir Walter Scott, whose monument looms over the main shopping street. Not far from the reminder of the great novelist and poet is Topping & Company, a bookshop complete with 70,000 titles on its handmade shelves, accessed by rolling library ladders. Check the schedule of events before a visit for book signings, talks and book groups.

 

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