Archive for category General Caravan Advice

Touring Caravans: A Buying Guide

Touring CaravansIf you feel the time is right to treat yourself and buy a touring caravan, there are a number of issues that you should consider. Caravans can be expensive, so this is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly – set a realistic budget, read a Touring Caravans Guide and shop around to find the best possible deal.

Of course, you will only come to a final decision once you have had the chance to inspect the caravan in the flesh, and it’s important to be thorough in regards to this process. When you are presented with the chance to inspect every nook and cranny of the caravan, don’t waste the opportunity, as it’s the only chance you’ll get to establish whether the caravan represents real value for money.

Check the chassis area and underside of the caravan for the signs of rust – remember, if buying second hand, a little bit of rust is only to be expected, but if the problem seems excessive it’s probably best to look elsewhere, even if the caravan is being offered for sale at a reasonable price. Rust damage is one of the most expensive of all caravan problems to put right.

Some caravans will be sold on the strength of their additional features, so consider how much they actually contribute to the value of the overall package. Additional extras may be attractive on the surface, but only if the price of the caravan is right. Check to ensure fridges, storage shelves and other fixtures and fittings are all in reasonable working order.

Water damage can occasionally develop into a problem if not monitored from the outset, so on initial inspection of the caravan, analyse the water pipes and tanks very carefully to ensure leaks will not spring up and cause a nasty surprise the moment you have parted with your hard earned cash. On a similar theme, assess the condition of the tow hitch to ensure it is fit for road use.

Finally, never rush into a decision. Try and inspect a number of caravans, as you may be surprised just how much your thoughts change after several options have been presented to you. If after this you still remain unsure as to whether you are prepared to meet the significant cost of a touring caravan, renting could also be an excellent compromise option.

West Bay, Dorset – Video Guide

West Bay is located in West Dorset and is a fantastic place to come for a holiday and there are a number of fantastic caravan sites nearby that offer caravan rentals. I found this video that gives you a bit of an idea what to expect.

Things To Do In Dorset

Dorset is a fantastic county in the South of England that offers good weathern as well as fantastic countryside and coastline. This post outlines just some things you can do when on holiday in Dorset.

The Coastline – Dorset is famous for it’s Jurassic coast, a UNESCO world heritage site. A visit to Lyme Regis at the western end of the county is well worth it and those who love fossils should take a walk along the cliffs to see what they can find. The coast of dorset is not just about fossils however. Those after a lively visit should consider the sandy beach at Bournemouth while those in search of excellent scenery should visit Durdle door or Chesil Beach. The sailing events for the 2012 Olympic Games are being held at Weymouth

Attractions - There are plenty of excellent attractions to visit in Dorset such as the Sea-Life Centre in Weymouth or the world famous Monkey World ape rescue centre. The Bovington Tank Museum houses the world’s finest collection of armoured fighting tanks from WW1 to the present day including the world’s only working German Tiger Tank.

Swanage Railway -The Swanage Railway is one of the best steam railways in the south and the journey takes in the ruins of Corfe Castle as well as other attractions. Other events includes a Thomas the Tank exhibition, train driving opportunities and Santa Specials through December.

How To Save Money Camping

In the current financial climate, many families are feeling the pinch and looking to save money wherever possible. This has lead to many people choosing to holiday in the UK. This article outlines some tips on how to save money on your camping holiday.

  • Choosing the campsite – Decide what facilities you need, what facilities you would like, and what facilities you can do without. This will mean you can find the best possible deal by discounting unsuitable campsites. If you are prepared to compromise on location (near a beach etc) then you can also save money.
  • Taking everything you need – Make a checklist beforehand that outlines everything you need to take and mark it off as you load things into the car/caravan. This will save you having to buy things that you already have at home when on holiday.
  • Make a budget and stick to it – This is the best way of ensuring that you don’t spend more than you can afford to on holiday. Not all activities on holiday have to cost money (such as the beach or nature walking) and the cheapest activities can still be very enjoyable.
  • Eating out – Eating out every night can quickly add up. In the summer months, buying food from a supermarket and cooking it on the barbeque is by far the best way to feed the family.

Caravan Rental at Butlins, Minehead, Somerset

Caravan sleeps up to 8 people. Price includes all Butlins entertainment.

With all the attractions of 1 of the best family entertainment resorts in the West Country. Surrounded by superb settings close to Exmoor National Park and the Somerset Coast.
Accommodation. 3 Bedroom, 8 berth. The caravan has 3 separate bedrooms, consisting of 1 double and 2 twin rooms. The seating in the lounge converts to a Double bed. All, quilts & pillows are provided, however due to theft you do need to provide your own quilt covers, pillow cases & towels. In preparing this brochure we have tried to compare this with the different types of accommodation offered by Butlins. It is our opinion, & hopefully yours the holiday home comes close to that being offered as the Deluxe, self-catering facilities offered in Butlins Brochure.

Kitchen
We also have a kitchen complete with Kettle, Plates, knives & forks etc plus large mugs for that first cup of tea, or coffee in the morning. The kitchen is fitted with a full size fridge as well as a cooker, grill, Microwave. Vegetable steamer In fact all you need to cook on holiday.

Lounge
This is fitted with a table able to seat 4 persons Built in seating and newly carpeted throughout. A television and Video are supplied so that you do not need to miss your favourite programs whilst on holiday.

Washing/ Shower Facilities
The caravan is fitted with a built in shower, separate sink in the bathroom and a separate toilet. All towels are provided at the caravan and are fresh for your arrival.

Entertainment.
Whilst at the caravan there is no need to be bored. As the caravan is situated on Butlins Holiday Camp all entertainment is included in the rental of the caravan.
This includes entertainment for both children and adults, with Live show from many big names, to There are restaurants to eat in, and separate bars if you want a quite drink. A laundrette is situated on site, so all in all you have a “Home from home” with all services provided. All you need to do is you require assistance is to approach a “Redcoat” and they are happy to point you in the right direction. On arrival at the gate you will be able to collect the keys to the caravan & welcome pack detailing all you need to know regarding the resort. The only thing then remaining is to collect your pass tickets from guest services for entrance to all the entertainment offered.

TARRIFF
Rental Prices. All Charged Per Caravan, For Up To 8 People. No Surcharges

Prices start from £300 per week, in low season to a maximum of £550 per week in high season, excluding Christmas We do require a “Security deposit” of £100 in case of damage. However this can be in the form of a guaranteed cheque that will not be cashed unless loss or damage occurs. I am sure that this will not happen and the cheque will be returned to you at the end of your holiday.

Highlands End Holiday Park, Dorset, UK

Highlands End Holiday Park

This caravan and camping site is situated in a fantastic location overlooking Lyme Bay and with access to the beach through a private footpath. Static caravan rental is available to families all thoughout the season. This caravan park is very suited to children and families. It has an indoor swimming pool, play park and sport facilities, pitch and putt golf course  as well as all the things that can be done in the surrounding countryside and beaches. In the evening’s a clubhouse with pool tables and food provides entertainment to both adults and children alike. Adults can use the fully equipped gym and steam room in the swimming pool area while the kids are off playing.

It is located in the village of Eype, within walking distance of West Bay (location of the ‘Harbour Lights’ ITV series) and the historic market town of Bridport is not very far away. This part of Dorset is part of the Jurassic Coast (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) which makes it excellent for looking for fossils. The famous town of Lyme Regis within comfortable driving distance and makes a good day out.

The British Grand Prix is Saved – Good News for Caravan Rentals

The news that the British Grand Prix will be staged at Silverstone for the forseeable future is very good news for people in the caravan rental industry. Many companies make a good profit out of the oldest Grand Prix on the Formula 1 calendar and the deal which could see the British GP staged at Silverstone for the next 17 years ensures that this will continue.

The 2010 British Grand Prix looks set to be a cracker with the 2008 World Champion and British GP winner, Lewis Hamilton (above) and 2009 World Champion Jenson Button both driving for Mclaren and for Britain.

Companies such as Motorhomes Worldwide offer a 5% discount for paying upfront for a fixed time, whilst Tilshead Caravans have offered caravan hire at the event for several years.

Caravan Rental in The Lake District

The Lake District is one of the most famous national parks in the UK. The fantastic landscape and scenery make it a dream for hikers. There are lots of caravan rental opportunities at campsites all around the area. These sites are taken from www.camp-sites.co.uk and just give you some guide to prices and locations.

Park Cliffe Camping & Caravan Estate

ETC 5 stars AA 4 pennants Gold David Bellamy Conservation Award 2008 Northwest Caravan Park of the Year 2009 AA Northwest Campsite of the Year

Birks Road Windermere Cumbria LA23 3PG

Set in the heart of the Lake District National Park only 4 miles from Bowness on Windermre in unspoilt countryside. Sitting high in open countryside it has spectacular views over the Lakeland Fells and Lake Windermere. Well managed and maintained, the park is neat and tidy with attractive shrubs and plants in local, stone-built troughs set around the entrance. The touring pitches are gravel hardstandings with electricity (10A), water and drainage services. Two areas are set aside for tents, one unmarked and undulating on the hillside(Fellside) divided by an original stone wall and adjacent to the tourers and one across the road for tents that require electric hook-ups – these are marked and numbered (Ghyllside). Modern facilities include toilet & shower block, private bathrooms for hire, bar, shop, restaurant (wifi available here), games room, laundrette, adventure playground. Note: the restaurant and bar are open during high season but closed midweek during low season. Full details availalbe from our website.

2010 Tariff Open 1st March – 13th November Harstanding pitch for touring caravan, motorhome or trailer tent £24.50 to £28.00 Grass pitch £19.50 to £28.00 Prices based on one unit, car and 2 persons. (extra nightly charge of £10 for 8 man tents+) Full details of extra charges, minimum stay periods and season dates from our website.

Tel: 015395 31344

Fax: 015395 31971

http://www.parkcliffe.co.uk

info@parkcliffe.co.uk


High Laning Caravan & Camping Park

High Laning Farm Dent Cumbria LA10 5QJ

A secluded, level site with clean, modern facilities including electricity hook-ups and park lighting. Located in the beautiful village of Dent. The Ladies and Gents toilet blocks comprise of mains water, private toilets and wash basins, showers and shaving points. The disabled unit is equipped with toilet, wash basin and shower.

Tel: 01539 625239

http://www.highlaning.com

info@highlaning.com


Park Foot Caravan & Camping Park

AA 3 Stars

Howtown Road Pooley Bridge Penrith Cumbria CA10 2NA

Park Foot is a family run park Situated beside Lake Ullswater and Approximately one mile from Pooley Bridge. Set in Magnificent Scenery. Our Park accommodates Touring Caravans, Tents and Motor Homes (Electric Hook up on Request). We also provide self catering accommodation sleeping 2 – 8 people. Park Foot is an ideal base to tour the Lakes and the Eden Valley.

From £12 – £24

Tel: 017684 86309

Fax: 017684 86041

http://www.parkfootullswater.co.uk

mailto:holidays@parkfootullswater.co.uk

Caravan Security

If you are thinking of renting out your caravan to customers, you may find this handy guide regarding security on UK Caravan Supplies helpful. Renting a caravan out means you are not going to be with it at all times and therefore security isn’t completely in your hands. Making sure that the customers follow this quick guide could give you peace of mind.