PITCH PERFECT
With caravan and motorhome holidays so popular, Tristan Parker selects four exemplary sites that go the extra mile
It’s no secret that the Covid pandemic changed people’s holidaying habits, and one of those changes was an increase in the number of caravanning and motorhome holidays. Sales of both vehicles skyrocketed during the pandemic, tying in with a resurgence in homegrown holidays around the UK. Research carried out by the Caravan and Motorhome Club in 2022 found that the number of people in the UK considering a holiday in either rose by 20 per cent in the preceding two years.
A holiday at a caravan and motorhome site clearly has a lot to offer. There’s a sense of freedom and selfsufficiency, for one thing, and the ease with which you can explore the great outdoors is a great bonus. But with more than 8,500 sites across the UK, it can be difficult to pick the right one.
Ultimately, what to look for will depend on the type of trip you want. If you’re after convenience and ease, a site with plenty of facilities and a nearby town will be high on your list. If you’re more interested in getting away from it all, somewhere remote with lots of space will appeal far more.
1. Three Cliffs Bay, Swansea, Wales
If you’re wanting somewhere special, head for this ‘five-star holiday park’ in West Wales’ beautiful Gower region. All caravan and motorhome pitches come with electricity, and picnic tables and fire pits can be rented. You’ll also be impressed with the amenities block, featuring power showers and underfloor heating. There are even warm-water showers for canine companions. The onsite shop sells everything from fresh bread to local beer to buckets and spades, and onsite street-food truck, Food Anarchy, can create hearty meals. Once you’re fuelled up, the magical Gower scenery is quite literally on your doorstep.
The soft sands and rugged cliffs of Three Cliffs Bay, are easily accessible, as are sections of the Wales Coastal Path and outdoor activities, including cycle routes. It’s worth making the 20-minute drive east to Mumbles, a charming seaside spot crammed with colourful buildings with a whole host of independent businesses, from craft shops to specialist restaurants.
2. Aberfeldy Caravan Park, Highland Perthshire, Scotland
A setting next to the River Tay that’s also minutes away from a characterful market town means you’ve got the best of both worlds at this well-regarded park. It’s in a picturesque part of an already stunning area of Scotland, surrounded by towering hills, thick forests and countless shades of green. There are ample creature comforts on hand, too, including 24-hour hot showers, laundry and dish-washing facilities, barbecue and picnic equipment, and 128 caravan and motorhome pitches with electricity.
Lots of outdoor activities are available, from water-based pursuits on the Tay to hikes, both gentle and challenging. Another big perk is the site’s proximity to Aberfeldy. In this enticing town are shops for supplies, plus an array of cafes, local restaurants and great pubs. There’s also a community cinema with an events programme if you fancy a change of scenery. On the other side of the caravan park is Dewar’s distillery, a must for whisky fans.
3. Kelling Heath, Norfolk, England
With a long list of features and a setting in 300 acres of woodland in the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s little wonder that Kelling Heath has scooped prestigious awards. Facilities-wise, there are indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a fitness centre (including gym, sauna and steam room), play areas for children, a range of dining options and an extensive shop.
All caravan and motorhome pitches come with electricity and there are three areas to choose from, with one that allows dogs. As you’d expect at such a site, hiking and biking trails are plentiful, and can be used to explore some of North Norfolk’s 45 miles of coastline and its Blue Flag beaches. The pretty seaside towns of Sheringham and Cromer are a short drive away, or if you fancy a day trip to somewhere a touch more urban, Norwich is an hour’s drive south of the park.
4. Whitemead Forest Park, Gloucestershire, England
This well-run site is teeming with facilities, making it as appealing to families as to couples looking for a quiet getaway. Caravan and motorhome pitches come with electricity, plus access to shower blocks, washing-up points and laundry rooms. The Foresters Bar serves a wide range of breakfast, lunch and dinner options and regular entertainment, from magicians to live music. There’s also an onsite shop.
In daytime, busy yourself at the indoor pool and sauna, or practice your putting in adventure golf – just don’t forget to explore the surrounding Forest of Dean. This sprawling ancient woodland is home to nature reserves, cycle trails, an arboretum and the well-preserved Darkhill Ironworks archaeological site. The towns of Lydney and Coleford are both less than ten minutes’ drive, and both are peppered with restaurants, pubs and attractions, such as the 4,500-year-old Clearwell Caves just outside Coleford. Another highlight is Dean Heritage Centre, a five acre site based around an extensive and interactive local history museum.
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