Towcar of the Year: Electric vehicles are now on an equal footing

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CaravanTimes’ very own Dan Cartwright has been a judge for the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Towcar of the Year (TCOY) awards on several occasions. One of the things he noticed at the week-long testing for 2023’s submissions was just how many electric cars had been put forward for the prize.

A shift in attitudes towards electric vehicles

There’s been a shift from the idea that electric vehicles can’t be towcars and this is demonstrated in both the manufacturers’ attitudes and those of the buying public. The general opinion is there’s no longer so much to mark them apart from traditional petrol or diesel cars.

Dan said: “Over the last four or five years there’s been a huge increase in the number of pure electric vehicles submitted to Towcar of the Year. Now, whilst electric vehicles on the whole have come a long way, they’ve got some very positive things when it comes to towing and some negative things.

“We are starting to see, on campsites around the country, electric vehicles being used as towcars. Being at Towcar of the Year gave us an opportunity to give some of our thoughts on them. Firstly, I think we have to address the range issue. There is no definitive answer for range.”

Effect of towing on range

Range is the metric used to measure how far an electric vehicle can travel without the need to be recharged. It’s an anxiety that many people have when contemplating buying an electric vehicle and one that is only exacerbated once you start thinking about attaching a caravan to the back of the car.

Dan added: “What a lot of people don’t realise is that MPG is not accurate. It’s done under certain tests, but when you get your car yourself, even on the same road on a different day, your MPG will vary. There is no benchmark as to how much towing will affect the range of your vehicle, but it will decrease dramatically.

“The thing to bear in mind here is the range on your petrol or diesel car also reduces dramatically when you tow. The range from your tank of petrol or your MPG can be more than halved when you’re towing. So, this isn’t a symptom of an electric vehicle so much as a symptom of towing.

Electric vehicles make great towcars

Dan commented: “Make no mistake, leaving range out of it, electric cars, on the whole, make incredible tow vehicles for a number of reasons. The first is for weight. Because of the battery, they are typically heavier, but that weight is distributed lower and more evenly around the car. Typically the whole floor plan of the car is a battery, so that means it’s a lot more stable for towing.

“There’s a lot less body roll into corners when you’re towing, as the caravan can push while the car’s leading a bit, particularly on the big 4x4s, which can be unpleasant. Additionally, most electric cars are four-wheel drive and electronically sensored, which means that the power delivery to each individual wheel is instantaneous, depending on its level of traction and the design acceleration.”

This has a number of benefits, including:

  • Reducing wheel spin
  • Improved performance on hill starts
  • Better traction
  • Increased stability

“The third main advantage is there’s a huge amount of instant torque. There’s no revs; all the power is available. So that makes going up very big hills, in the Alps for example, or wherever you want to go, just incredible. With a normal engine you’re constantly up and down through the gears trying to keep the engine delivering at its maximum peak output,” Dan told us.

“On the whole, class by class, for pure towing stability and ability, the electrics generally outclass their diesel compatriots, manufacturer by manufacturer. We have had electric vehicle class winners in previous years, but we haven’t had that many submitted.

“But there’s been a lot there to test this year and a lot of them have been from mainstream manufacturers as well. They are submitting competitive electric vehicles alongside their petrol and diesel equivalents.”

Electric vehicle towing is achievable with a little bit of extra planning

Using an electric vehicle as a towcar means thinking about your journeys in a different way. It’s about planning ahead and understanding the constrictions you’re putting on yourself and your holiday.

Dan said: “It’s interesting to note they genuinely make very good towcars. Once you’ve accepted that the range is going to reduce, like it does on any vehicle that tows, it’s about your lifestyle.

“If you do want to do short tours, tow less distance or perhaps you really wanted an electric vehicle and you don’t have one at the moment because you tow, if you planned correctly, then it may take a little bit longer with the charging points, but your towing experience will be very good.

“And if you want an electric vehicle for the 90 per cent of the time that you drive it without towing versus the ten per cent of the time that you are towing, with the proliferation of charging points and access at campsites to charging points, it is becoming more achievable with a little bit of extra planning,” he added.

Electric vehicles at Towcar of the Year and beyond

Seeing manufacturers entering more electric vehicles into the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Towcar of the Year competition is a reflection of what’s going on in the wider world. Holidaymakers who tow are starting to gain more confidence in the technology and how far it can take them.

Dan told us: “CAMC TCOY 2023 had the biggest selection of electric tow cars rigged with fully weighted caravans that I have tested. Having the electric vehicles right next to their internal combustion counterparts and being able to test them all in the same way has shown me not only how far electric tow vehicles have come but also highlighted areas where they are better than internal combustion vehicles.”

We’ve come a long way since then and electric vehicles are becoming ubiquitous, with Dan stating: “We’re also seeing electric cars on campsites now.” And that’s what the awards are all about – testing the vehicles that will work well for caravanners on the road and when they pitch up.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/CHUTTERSNAP

The Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show to return for 2023

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The Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show will return in January 2023, featuring the latest models from dealerships across the north.

It is to be held at the Manchester Central Convention Complex from January 12th to 15th, with the newest product launches being the headline draw.

Visitors will have the chance to compare caravan layouts, motorhome interiors and holiday home specifications, as well as tents, awnings and accessories.

If you’re thinking about making a big purchase, it’s a good opportunity to talk to experts about the leisure vehicle that will best suit your needs.

Even if you’re not planning on buying a new caravan or motorhome, the show will make a great day out for fans of the lifestyle.

The Food & Travel Stage will feature talks from industry and tourism figures across the event, offering inspiration for your next touring trip.

Partnering with the Caravan & Motorhome Club and the Camping & Caravanning Club means representatives from these two well-respected organisations will also be on hand.

Rob Debenham, show manager, said: “We are beyond excited to be bringing the show back to Manchester and even more so at Manchester Central.

“We can’t wait to welcome back familiar faces and greet those who are joining us for the first time and introduce them to the wonderful world of caravans and motorhomes.”

It’s advisable to obtain tickets online in advance, as they’re complimentary, with just a £1.95 booking fee to pay per person.

Tickets on the door will be charged at £7 per head. The 2023 edition of the Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show will be its tenth.

The last one was held in 2020 before the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, more people have become involved in the lifestyle as a way to explore the UK when travel abroad was restricted.

Towcar of the Year: The difference between reviewing and testing

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CaravanTimes’ Dan Cartwright is a judge for the annual Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Towcar of the Year (TCOY) competition. Ahead of the 2023 results, he spoke exclusively to us about the difference between reviewing towcars and truly putting them through their paces.

Testing conditions

The panel of judges for the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year is made up of car and caravan reviewers who are real experts in their field. All of them regularly carry out towcar reviews, but there’s a big difference between reviewing an outfit and testing it for the annual competition.

Dan said: “Both offer valuable information, but the difference is quite stark. And as somebody who does towcar reviews for a job, I understand why it’s so important to caravanners across the country.

“When you get given a towcar to review for a publication, it’s very unlikely that you’re going to have a rig that is suitable and available. If you do, it’s very unlikely that it’ll be properly and fully weighted and that goes for the car too.

“To make it fair, this would need to be weighted to the equivalent of a family and the stuff they take on holiday. It’s very unlikely you’re going to be able to drive it and test it on things like 70 per cent inclines and all the different terrain that Millbrook offers.”

All of the testing for the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year is carried out at the Technical Union for the Automobile, Motorcycle and Cycle Industries’ (UTAC) Millbrook Proving Ground. Here, the judges spend a week putting the vehicles that have been submitted for the award through their paces.

A fair playing field

Dan went on to say: “Even if you were to get the perfect-sized caravan, weight the car to the equivalent of a family and weight the caravan to 80 per cent of the maximum towing weight, you wouldn’t then be able to jump straight into the next one.”

The judge believes that having the rig created for a side-by-side direct comparison is what makes this competition so important. Reviewers can use their experience to write reviews that draw on their knowledge of how you’d expect a towcar to behave, but the level of granular detail and scrutiny put into the rig before the judges even get behind the wheel is what sets this event apart.

Dan added: “You know that it’s a completely fair comparison and the track at Millbrook means you can go over so many different types of road conditions. They vary from hill starts to bends to apexes to heavy braking to motorway situations, so you really can get a very good condensed idea as to the towcar.

“That ability to test them side-by-side over a week period as opposed to over the years as a tester, it might take you ten years to get through the number we get through in a week. Instead, everything is fresh in your mind and you can jot down the details from specific areas.

“That’s what these awards bring to the general public. They’re not asking you to make a decision on towcars based on inaccurate data; it is as close as you can get to a fair competition. As there’s such a large number of judges you get a fair breadth of opinion.

“It’s interesting to see where things are particularly good, all the judges tend to think so, regardless of class, and if something really struggles then all the judges tend to pick up on that as well. So, that’s the difference between reviewing and testing.”

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Darwin Vegher 

Old vs new: Reasons to invest in a modern caravan

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Whether you opt for a new model or an older one, buying a caravan is a significant investment. 

It’s important to remember that there is a big difference between modern caravans and ones that have had more experience on the road. Before making a down payment, be sure to weigh up the pros and cons of old vs new caravans. 

The caravan specialists at Ropers Leisure have shared their advice for those seeking to snap up a touring vehicle. 

Although you might be tempted by the cheaper price tag of used or older caravan models, be aware that you’ll likely spend more in the long run on repairs or replacement parts. Additionally, they won’t feature the latest amenities and creature comforts that most people are used to today. 

If you plan to rent out your caravan, this could make it a less attractive option than the later models. Furthermore, you’ll have to fork out to equip your leisure vehicle with the modern features that society has come to expect. 

Newer caravans come with a higher price tag. However, they offer a wider range of modern features that make the touring experience much more enjoyable, such as increased storage space, larger windows, smart technology and more advanced cooking facilities. 

Investing in a modern caravan provides more peace of mind as you can set off knowing that you won’t encounter unexpected malfunctions or breakdowns. 

Although buying a new caravan model is the safest choice, it’s not always an option for many people. If you’re eager to get out on the road but you’re on a budget, there are still ways to invest in a used caravan affordably. 

Before deciding whether to buy an old or modern caravan, ask yourself the following questions to help you determine which option will ultimately be cheaper. 

  • Do the interiors need updating or replacing?
  • Are all parts of the motor (engine, electrics, wheels etc) functional?
  • Are the caravan’s safety certificates up to date?

James Roper at Ropers Leisure commented: “We can see there are advantages for both old and new caravans, and we can see new versus used advantages as well. However, it’s clear that people want to experience a staycation away that contains all the up-to-date facilities modern caravans typically provide.

“Outdated interior and poorly specced caravans won’t meet people’s travelling demands in the day and age we live in, and this will especially come into practice if you intend to rent out your caravan to others.”

 

 

Image credit: Roper Leisure

Enjoy autumn in Scotland on your next touring adventure

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Autumn is upon us. As the trees turn all shades of orange, there are a number of activities, events and getaways to enjoy in Scotland this autumn. The team at VisitScotland have highlighted some of the best things to do if you’re planning an autumnal touring trip up north. 

With many hidden gems, historic cities and a rugged coastline to explore – there are plenty of reasons to make Scotland your next road trip destination. As the weather gets colder, experience the best the country has to offer before cosying up in your caravan or tent for the night. 

For a family-friendly activity, go pumpkin, turnip and dahlia picking at Kilduff Farm in East Lothian. For something more alternative, try your hand at seaweed foraging with ​​East Neuk Seaweed in the Kingdom of Fife.

If the weather takes a turn, head to Ardkinglas House in Argyll to take part in a chutney, pickle and preserves cookery workshop. 

Scotland hosts many events throughout the spooky season, the largest of which is the Enchanted Forest in Tay Forest Park in Perthshire. Enjoy lights, art and music surrounded by autumn foliage as you walk through the park. 

Another must-see event is the annual Festival of Folklore in Dumfries and Galloway. Learn about Scotland’s myths and legends through guided walks, presentations and campfire talks. If the skies are clear it’s also a wonderful location for a spot of stargazing. 

For caravanners with a penchant for Gothic literature, the Festival of Darkness that takes place across Aberdeenshire will be right up your alley. The festival celebrates Dracula and its author Bram Stoker’s links to Scotland with a range of vampire film screenings, making it the ideal event for the lead-up to Halloween. 

Scottish wildlife thrives in the autumn season. Explore the ancient woodland and magical scenery in Galloway Forest Park in Dumfries and Galloway. For a bit more excitement, get your adrenaline pumping with an e-bike safari in the Cairngorms National Park, which is also an ideal spot for hiking. 

If you’re seeking a more luxury getaway experience, embark on a ‘Taste of Scotland’ food trail. The paths have been designed to tell the story of Scotland’s rich food heritage as you explore the coastline and countryside. 

To warm up on a chilly fall evening, head to Si! Spa at The Gailes Hotel located just 40 minutes from Glasgow for some pampering and self-care in its thermal suite or outdoor hydra pool. 

With countless great locations to pitch up across the country, Scotland is the place to be this spooky season. 

 

Image credit: Craig Bradford / Unsplash

Video: Sneak peek of Towcar of the Year 2023

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It’s time again for the Caravan and Motorhome Club to choose its Towcar of the Year.

The process of selecting the best vehicle for towing a caravan is a rigorous one and the judges have met to put them through their paces.

CaravanTimes’ very own Dan Cartwright is among those on the judging panel and we’ll be posting an exclusive interview with him next week.

He’s spoken in the past about the importance of the competition, stating: “The disparity between having a car that tows well and a car that doesn’t is huge.”

There are so many factors at play, including safety, convenience and fuel consumption, meaning caravan owners need to think carefully before buying a new towcar.

Watch the sneak peek video for Towcar of the Year 2023, before the results are announced later this month.

Get familiar with rules around towing before your next touring holiday

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Summer might be coming to an end, but there’s still plenty of time to head out in your caravan or motorhome to enjoy what’s left of the good weather. 

Since the pandemic, staycation popularity has been growing in the UK. Motorists should be aware of towing regulations before embarking on a touring adventure to avoid penalties and fines that could ruin their vacation before it begins. 

Car leasing experts at LeaseCar.uk have researched the latest towing laws to help travellers stay prepared. Although car and trailer tests aren’t required anymore, it’s always a good idea to practice towing somewhere quiet before getting out on the road. 

With that in mind, here are some rules and considerations to be aware of before setting off. 

When did you pass your test?

Rules around towing changed in 2021 to allow more drivers to legally tow trailers without needing to pass a trailer driving test first. 

Those who passed their test before the 1st of January 1997 are not affected by any changes and can drive a vehicle and trailer combination of up to 8,250kg MAM.

If you passed your driving test from the  1st of January 1997 to 18th of January 2013, you were previously allowed to drive either:

  • A car or van weighing up to 3,500kg MAM and tow a trailer with a maximum weight of 750kg MAM (a total of 4,250kg)
  • A trailer weighing more than 750kg only if it didn’t weigh more than the unladen weight of the vehicle (3,500kg in total)

You would have had to pass a car and trailer driving test to tow anything heavier.

The rules were also the same for those with licenses issued after the 19th of January 2013.

Now, anyone who passed their driving test after the 1st of January 1997 can tow trailers weighing up to 3,500kg MAM. Be sure to check your vehicle’s handbook to find out the gross train weight (GTW).

Rules to remember

Apart from the legal requirements mentioned above, there are other rules motorists should be aware of before hitting the road with their leisure vehicle in tow. 

  • The maximum speed when towing a trailer or caravan is 60 mph on motorways and dual carriageways and 50 mph on single carriageways. 
  • Legally, the maximum width of a trailer or caravan should not exceed 2.55 metres. 
  • The maximum length of a caravan towed by a vehicle weighing up to 3,500kg is 7 metres
  • To prevent blind spots, it is a legal requirement to install towing mirrors if the trailer is wider than the vehicle. 
  • The vehicle and trailer or caravan must display the same number plate. 

Failure to follow these laws can result in hefty fines of up to £2500 and three points on the driver’s licence – which is enough to put a dampener on anyone’s end-of-summer holiday.

 

Image credit: Benjamin Zanatta / Unsplash

Check out the new Adria Supersonic at the Motorhome & Caravan Show

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Adria’s new A-class motorhome will be on display at the NEC in Birmingham this October.

The Supersonic, which is powered by Mercedes Benz, is to be among the most exciting things to see at the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2022.

Designed with an aesthetic more commonly seen on a luxury yacht, the Supersonic represents the best in performance and innovation.

It will be just one of the latest leisure vehicles that will be exhibited at the show, which runs from October 18th to 23rd.

Whether you’re in the market for a new motorhome, caravan, campervan, tent or other activities, this is your opportunity to check out next season’s releases.

You’ll have the chance to talk to representatives from all the biggest manufacturers about what makes their products stand out from the crowd.

Chat to Elddis, Swift, Coachman or Bailey, as well as Westfalia, Auto-Trail and Buccaneer.

There’ll be free expert-led tutorials on towing and manoeuvring skills, which is a good idea if you’re new to driving with a caravan attached to your car.

They can even be useful for experienced towers looking to improve their technique.

Many exhibitors offer show-only discounts and there’s a wide selection of competitions to enter, meaning you could be sporting some state-of-the-art kit on your next caravan trip.

If you’re in need of inspiration about where to pitch up, then tourism organisations and holiday park reps will also be in attendance.

As well as people from destinations across Europe to talk to, there’ll be overall camping clubs and guides who can offer impartial advice.

Tickets to the Motorhome & Caravan Show cost £12 and are only available online. Children under the age of 15 get in for free, but still require a ticket.

To fully embrace the leisure vehicle lifestyle, camp at one of the sites not far from the NEC.

Time for your motorhome’s MOT? Don’t forget these unusual checks

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Taking your motorhome for its annual MOT isn’t as straightforward as ensuring your brakes and fuel system, lights, mirrors, exhaust and other obvious components are in working order. 

The team of motoring experts at LeaseCar.uk has put together a list of less common checks drivers should be aware of to ensure their vehicle passes the test.

If it’s time to take your leisure vehicle to the garage, take note of these tips to guarantee it doesn’t fail its MOT on minor issues like having a faulty number plate or your washer fluid levels being depleted. 

Number plate lights

To pass its MOT, your motorhome or other type of vehicle must have fully functioning licence plate lights. This is so that police and other road users can easily identify your vehicle in low-light conditions. Make sure to check this to avoid a fixed penalty fine.

Frayed seat belts

Like other elements of your vehicle, it’s common for safety belts to become worn down and frayed over time. It’s important to ensure seat belts are in good condition, that they click in properly and can’t be pulled out easily to guarantee a pass. 

Ensure washer fluid levels are satisfactory

This check is often forgotten when taking a vehicle for its MOT. Be sure to check the amount of screenwash in the car, as having levels that are too low can lead to failure. This can be fixed simply by purchasing a screen wash solution and filling it up. 

Reversing lights

Since 2018, vehicles must have working reversing lights to avoid a failed MOT. Be sure to test the bulbs on your vehicle before dropping it off at the test centre. 

Check your fuel cap

Be sure to check the condition of your fuel cap. If it won’t seal or you get a strong smell of petrol, it could mean the cap is worn out and might need to be replaced. 

Remove the air freshener

It might seem a little strange, but there is a good reason to remove the air freshener before taking your motorhome for its MOT. 

Many people hang an air freshener from their rear-view mirror to keep the car smelling nice. However, they can technically obstruct the driver’s vision which can lead to a failed test. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so simply remove the air freshener before dropping your vehicle off. 

Cracks on the number plate

Another minor detail that often goes unnoticed is cracks on the number plate. If any letters are covered by cracks it can be the difference between a pass and a fail. 

 

Image credit: Alan Billyeald / Unsplash 

Dream destinations: Brecon Beacons

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The Brecon Beacons National Park, situated in the heart of the Welsh countryside, is home to mountains, castles, moorland, waterfalls and plenty of wildlife. The region has been named a Dark Skies Reserve (making it ideal for a spot of stargazing) and a UNESCO Global Geopark.  

Covering 520 square miles, the national park comprises three distinct areas: The Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountains and the Fforest Fawr. 

There’s plenty to enjoy in this stunning part of the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing staycation spot to explore in a caravan or you want to pitch up at one of the best camping destinations in the UK – the Brecon Beacons has a lot to offer. 

Best walks in the Brecon Beacons

This stunning hiking destination offers routes with incredible mountain views for varying fitness levels. 

Pen y Fan is one of the most popular mountains to visit in Wales, making it one of the best but most crowded walks in the Brecon Beacons. We recommend the Pen y Fan horseshoe route, which offers a quieter and wilder hiking experience than the more trodden Pont ar Daf route. 

The ascent to Sugar Loaf Mountain (sounds like something out of a fantasy novel, right?) is another must-do hiking route. The five-mile route is suitable for all fitness levels and makes a great day out. 

Another fantastic option is the Llanthony and Hatterall Ridge route, which spans a moderate 4.5 miles. Enjoy breathtaking views and be sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under the ruins of Llanthony Priory. 

Other activities 

Adrenaline junkies will feel right at home in the Brecon Beacons. There are plenty of activities to try out if you’re feeling adventurous, including horse riding, wild swimming,  cycling and watersports such as paddle boarding and kayaking. 

For the more daring explorers out there, this area is home to some of the best cave systems in Europe, which can be visited with an experienced guide. 

If you’d rather admire this area’s breathtaking natural beauty from afar, there are plenty of charming villages and quaint towns to explore. 

Literature lovers from around the world flock to the tiny town of Hay-on-Wye, affectionately known as the “Town of Books” where there are 20 bookshops to discover (there’s even one in the castle) and a great selection of pubs and eateries selling traditional fare and pints to see you through the day. 

Brecon, a market town situated on the edge of the National Park, is another great spot for an afternoon stroll and a pint to finish off the day. Other towns worth visiting include Crickhowell, Talgarth and Sennybridge. 

If you’re interested in the history of this region, pay a visit to Carreg Cennen Castle and Farm which dates back to the 13th century. Other must-see historical attractions include the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre, the Brecon Mountain Railway, and the Big Pit National Coal Museum. 

Best spots to pitch up in the Brecon Beacons

Because of its popularity with outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of spots to pitch a tent or park your caravan for the night in and around the Brecon Beacons. 

The obvious choice is the Brecon Beacons Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite. Other great locations include Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park and Priory Mill Farm, a 16th-century farm-come-campsite. 

You can also enjoy wild camping (legally) at Brecon Beacons Wild Camping or opt for more luxury accommodation at Aber Glamping. 

 

 

Photo by Mike Erskine / Unsplash

Road trip the world without leaving the UK

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Planning a road trip to mark the end of summer? It turns out you don’t have to leave the UK to visit some of the world’s most famous international destinations (kind of). 

Many Brits are opting for UK-based staycations or caravanning or camping adventures due to airport chaos and cancellations. 

To help make choosing a destination easier (and a little more exotic), the team at LeaseElectricCar.co.uk have identified some must-see British locations that share their name with international hotspots. 

Of course, don’t expect these locations to bear any resemblance to their international counterparts beyond their name. However, they are still definitely worth a visit and offer a change of scenery from other popular UK holiday destinations.  

From Barcelona in Cornwall to Columbia in Tyne and Wear, why not make an international road trip the theme of your next touring adventure? 

Here are seven UK destinations with international counterparts. 

Moscow, Ayrshire

Sharing its name with Russia’s largest city, it’s been suggested that this Scottish hamlet got its name due to the prisoners and refugees that lived there during the Crimean War. 

Combine a visit to Moscow with a road trip around Scotland, and don’t forget to check out some of the delightful beaches around the coast. 

Barcelona, Cornwall

Nothing like the vibrant and lively cosmopolitan city in Spain, Cornwall’s Barcelona got its name due to a Spanish native who saved a famous resident from a shipwreck disaster in the 1800s. 

As one of the most picturesque counties in the UK, a trip to Barcelona is easily paired with a road trip along the Cornish coast. 

Egypt, Bradford 

Located in West Yorkshire, just a short distance from its North African counterpart, Egypt is thought to have been named in commemoration of Napoleon’s 18th-century invasion of its namesake. 

Although there’s not much to see in this tiny hamlet, the Yorkshire Dales is an area of outstanding beauty.

Florence, Staffordshire

Although you’ll find no Renaissance masterpieces here, Florence is a charming suburb that’s well worth the visit. 

However, it lies near the Peak District, which offers quite another kind of beauty. 

Combine your visit with some hiking or even wild swimming if you’re feeling adventurous. 

Palestine, Hampshire

It doesn’t have much in common with Jerusalem, and its name remains a mystery to this day, but this charming village is worth visiting if you’re heading to the south of England.

California, Norfolk

This quaint seaside town gets its name from some 16th-century gold coins that were discovered on its shores. The lovely beach is a great spot to take the whole family. 

Columbia, Tyne and Wear

Columbia is located in the town of Washington in the north of England, which was home to George Washington’s ancestors. Other areas in England that have transatlantic connections include New York in Tyneside and Cleveland in County Durham. 

 

 

Image credit: Hamish Duncan / Unsplash

New Road Life book to share campervan experiences

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A new book is set to be published next month that showcases the experiences of 35 people who have embraced the campervan lifestyle.

Road Life has been compiled by Sebastian Antonio Santabarbara and is described as “an inspirational guide to living and travelling on four wheels”.

Among those featured are talented craftsmen who’ve converted vehicles entirely from scratch and explorers who have perfected the art of travelling on a budget.

No two sets of circumstances are the same, with the stories covered as diverse as solo campervanners and families hitting the road together.

The lure of taking a step back from the trappings of modern life to embrace a simpler way of doing things that’s more in tune with nature is celebrated in the book.

Road Life demonstrates how what may seem like a dream can be turned into a reality through the eyes of those who’ve achieved it.

Author Mr Santabarbara is a seasoned traveller and expert on all things vanlife and alternative living.

He personally interviewed each of the people who contributed their stories to the book in order to get to the essence of their approach to life and travel.

As well as reading about their memorable experiences and the challenges they’ve had to overcome along the way, they’ve shared their knowledge too.

Find out which gadgets they’ve come to rely upon and the tips they’d like to share as a result of becoming seasoned vanlifers.

The contributors are made up of people from the UK, Portugal, Bulgaria, USA, Sweden, Japan, Czech Republic, Germany and Italy.

They represent a wide range of ages and some are travelling with pets, meaning there’s inspiration for people in a variety of circumstances.

Road Life will be published on September 6th in hardback, while Mr Santabarbara’s subsequent book, Van Life for Dummies, is expected later in the year.

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Kampus Production