Table of contents for Summer 2023 in Practical Caravan

One of the many fantastic things about caravanning is that no matter what your budget, there's a van for you. Okay, so tens of thousands of pounds will get you a new model with all the proverbial bells and whistles, but it's possible to enjoy touring just as much in a budget used van – and for many caravanners, turning a secondhand tourer into the perfect home-from-home is all part of the appeal. Which is why we're delighted to bring you the first instalment of former Practical Caravan editor Nigel Donnelly's new series, the Penny Project. He's just purchased a £1200, 1998 Bailey Delamere, and has exciting plans for it (p104) – you can read his reports over the coming months. Let us know about your brilliant used buy, too…

We asked, what's your favourite dog-friendly campsite? Here are just some of your choices! Star photo Our winning entry receives one of these beautifully illustrated maps from Awesome Maps – check out the amazing range at www.awesome-maps.com WIN ME! TAG US #PRACTICAL CARAVAN OR EMAIL LETTERS@PRACTICALCARAVAN.COM NEXT MONTH'S THEME... SUMMER FUN! Send us your best touring shots for a chance to win an Awesome Map…

CUT OUT AND KEEP GUIDE! NORTHERN IRELAND might not be at or near the top of your must-visit destinations list, but it certainly should be. The shortest crossing (with Stena Line) takes two hours and 15 minutes, from Cairnryan in Scotland to Belfast. Sailing from Liverpool takes around eight hours. Once there, you'll be very impressed by the huge array of fabulous destinations and attractions, both out in the wilds and in the towns and cities. Northern Ireland boasts numerous unspoilt seaside resorts, world-famous natural phenomena and one of the UK's great new museums – but it's the warm welcome you'll experience from these super-friendly folk that will make the biggest impression. Beyond Belfast, the gorgeous countryside in this surprising province is just sensational, making it the perfect region to…

KNOW-HOW // SUMMER HOTSPOTS NORTH-WEST ENGLAND has so much to offer, from marvellous Manchester (it's been transformed in the past 20 years) to the phenomenal Lake District. At peak times, avoid the more touristy areas, such as Windermere and Bowness, and perhaps head inland to explore the Forest of Bowland AONB or trek north to the Solway Coast AONB. Safe to say, whichever direction you travel, you'll find stunning scenery or truly beautiful beaches, plus pretty towns and villages with excellent cafés, restaurants, shops and attractions. To make the most of this glorious region, it's best to take your walking boots and your waterproofs… oh, and don't forget the dog! Summer events ● Manchester Craft Beer Experience, on 27 August 2023, is a tour of the city's finest micro-breweries, offering…

CUT OUT AND KEEP GUIDE! FULL OF HIDDEN gems, the Heart of England combines bucolic countryside with fascinating historical sites and charming market towns. From the rolling greenery of the Shropshire Hills and the Cotswolds to the vibrant cities of Birmingham, Oxford and Cheltenham, there is simply no end of summer adventure to enjoy. If you're in search of serenity, head to Herefordshire, where the scenic River Wye runs through pretty towns such as Hay and the splendid Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. History buffs, meanwhile, can explore the region's rich industrial past, with visits to Ironbridge, Coalbrookdale and the fascinating Black Country Living Museum. Summer events ● Shrewsbury Folk Festival, running from 25-28 August 2023, offers beer tents full of local brews, live music, craft stalls, children's…

KNOW-HOW // SUMMER HOTSPOTS DELIGHTFUL DORSET has so much to offer caravanners, from its pretty county town, Dorchester, to the seaside treasures of Weymouth, Poole, Christchurch and Bournemouth, and its incredible Jurassic Coast, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further inland, the area is a gently undulating patchwork of fields, and home to the Cerne Abbas giant, the magnificent Kingston Lacy country estate and stunning Highcliffe Castle. Dorset may be rather ‘outtouristed' by Devon and Cornwall, but for most of us, it's appreciably nearer, so a shorter tow, and has just as much to shout about. That includes many sensational campsites and loads to do for children and adults. Summer events ● Fascinating Guided Coast Walks by Jurassic Coast Trust ambassador, Vincent Sheppard, cost just £5. You can join Vince…

CUT OUT AND KEEP GUIDE! Double-check you're safely hitched up Before you hit the road, it's important to perform a few basic safety checks. The hitch should be securely attached to the towball. On the Al-Ko chassis used in most UK caravans, you will see a green button, but it is worth winding the jockey wheel down a little, to show that the back of the tow car will lift with the hitch. The breakaway cable (which applies the caravan's brakes if it becomes detached) should be attached correctly, the jockey wheel should be raised and secured tightly in place, and the stabiliser bar (if fitted) needs to be lowered. The electrics should be plugged into the tow car's socket and the caravan's handbrake should be off (after checking that…

Cobb Charcoal Barbecue You'll always want to cook al fresco on this versatile barbecue that lets you roast, smoke, grill and fry anything you fancy! It's charcoal powered, dishwasher safe and weighs just 3.8kg. Price £169.99 Web lakeland.co.uk Easy Camp Camp Shelter Make the most of your pitch with this cosy camp shelter – it's perfect for use onsite as additional storage space, or you can detach the tent for use as an open gazebo. Price £334.99 Web easycamp.com Luci Solar String Lights These solar-charged lights will keep your evening bright after the sun sets and last for 20 hours on a charge. The 18ft cord can be draped around your awning or used outside the van. Price £39.95 Web wildbounds.com Chilly's Series 2 Water Bottle The ever-popular Chilly's has…

Sarah Wakely Editor sarah@practiccalcaravan.com Paul Critcher Deputy editor paul.critcher@futurenet.com Peter Baber Reviews editor peter.baber@futurenet.com David Motton Tow car editor motty@practicalcaravan.com John Sootheran Consulting editor practical.caravan@futurenet.com Andrew Jenkinson Used-van contributor practical.caravan@futurenet.com Q CAN WE BEAT BANK HOLIDAY CROWDS? We bought our caravan last year and have so far avoided going away on bank holidays. I've read that sites can be really busy and the prices go up, too. We're keen to go away at the end of August, though, and this trip will coincide with the late summer bank holiday. Do you have any advice on how we can best plan our journey? Kevin McCall Paul Critcher replies… That's a good question, Kevin! You're right, bank holidays can be more expensive, but with a bit of forward planning, you can still…

Sun draws buyers to the forecourts What a spell of hot weather we have been enjoying! It's great to see so many people getting out and about in their caravans in such lovely weather. It looks like the forecourts have been seeing a steady flow of buyers, too. The team at one Midlands-based dealership told me that things had been fairly quiet for a while, but after a week or so of the fine weather, footfall had risen markedly, and that had turned into increased numbers of sales. When I asked which price ranges were proving most popular, they said models above £25,000 were slower to sell. And how about the other end of the spectrum? Their experience was that few customers were interested in older tourers around the £7000…

KNOW-HOW // SUMMER HOTSPOTS UNIQUE LANDSCAPES, world-class beaches and truly wild spaces, Scotland really does have it all! So it's no surprise that this beautiful country is increasingly popular for touring. These days, with the introduction of the NC500 road trip, visitors are realising the peaceful bliss of driving through mountains, heathland and coastal areas. In the Highlands, the gorgeous coastlines and a wealth of ancient sites are worth risking the summer midges for, and the country's milder weather lends itself to pleasant hiking, walking and cycling in the beautiful national parks. Scattered throughout the area are vibrant cities, towns and villages, many hosting a number of important cultural events over the summer. Summer events ● For Fringe by the Sea, think Edinburgh Fringe, but with the bonus of fabulous…

CUT OUT AND KEEP GUIDE! HOME TO SOME of Britain's finest beaches and a wealth of superb campsites, Wales is perennially popular with summer holidaymakers. Visitors flock to the glorious coastlines of Pembrokeshire and the Gower, while those seeking outdoor activities head inland to Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) and Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons). During the summer, the region is also buzzing with events and activities. Many of the historic castles run familyfriendly weekends, while local communities enjoy annual traditions that welcome everyone. If you're a sunseeker who doesn't mind the crowds, head to the south coast for the warmest weather. For relative solitude and a cooler climate, try quieter areas like the Llŷn Peninsula and the Cambrian Mountains. Summer events ● The world-famous National Eisteddfod at Boduan, Gwynedd, on…

KNOW-HOW // SUMMER HOTSPOTS ENGLAND'S SOUTH-EAST may not get all the accolades garnered by its south-western counterpart, but that doesn't mean you won't enjoy its lush countryside and wonderfully varied coastline. The seaside towns of Kent have been resurgent in recent years, and the rolling hills of East and West Sussex will take some beating, while Brighton and Eastbourne are holiday hotspots with a huge dose of culture added for good measure. Destinations such as Arundel, with its stupendous castle (one of many in the area), and iconic Goodwood, offer unique experiences. Summer events ● Visit Eastbourne Feastival over the late summer bank holiday weekend of 26-28 August 2023 to enjoy a fabulous celebration of family, food, music and culture. Here, you'll be able to see everything from street artists…

CUT OUT AND KEEP GUIDE! ANYONE WHO IS keen to take to the waves will love a trip to Woolacombe or Croyde, two top-rated surfing beaches on the northern coast of this beautiful part of the world. Alternatively, if you prefer to relax on the sands or paddle in the shallows, you could head to South Devon and explore the 22 miles of breathtaking coastline that make up the splendid English Riviera. Then, for a change of scene, take a trip inland to discover Exmoor and Dartmoor, and enjoy soaking up the beauty of these two exceptional national parks. Summer events ● Fans of all things steam-driven should head to Brixham, South Devon, for the Torbay Steam Fair (4-6 August 2023), a celebration of the Age of Steam, which will…

Peaceful touring in high summer I have a love-hate relationship with caravanning in summer. It ought to be the best time to be away, with the highest temperatures and the finest weather. But it's busy, busy, busy on the roads and many tourist destinations will be heaving. For me, at this time of year, small farm campsites are great for escaping the crowds. With no more than five units, often well spread out, a CL or a CS is much quieter than a big campsite. There won't be so many facilities, but the back-to-basics camping experience makes a refreshing change. Each to their own, but sometimes I'm happy to keep touring simple in the height of summer. motty@practicalcaravan.com TOW CAR DIRECTORY Here is a list of the latest in-depth Tow…

Audi A4 Avant The Audi A4 Avant has all of the badge classiness of the Mercedes, and offers more rear-seat space. The boot is a bit bigger, too. The Mercedes focuses almost entirely on comfort, but the Audi manages to blend relaxed and supple manners with a rather more entertaining drive. The engine range is also pleasingly full of smooth, efficient powerplants. BMW 3-Series Touring The BMW 3-Series Touring is the car to choose if you enjoy driving around once you reach your destination and unhitch your caravan. That's not to say it's an annoyance on motorways – the 3-Series manages as well as the Audi, if not the Mercedes. It has a beautifully built interior that offers ample space and plenty of good kit. Volkswagen Passat Estate The VW…

Signs of the times Those planning to drive across Europe on holiday have been warned that failure to comply with unusual road signs could lead to significant penalties. The vehicle hire experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have identified some unfamiliar road signs in Europe that could cause caravanners an issue if they ignore them. Road safety and traffic regulations differ across Europe, of course, but drivers breaking those rules can expect a fine, points on their licence, and even a driving licence suspension for being unaware of some signs. For example, ignoring road signs in France could result in a fine of €135 (£116), four penalty points and a three-year licence suspension. Meanwhile, unsafe passing or violating road signs in Germany incurs a €300 fine. Here's a selection of road signs that…

CAMPACOOL TM MATTRESS TOPPER Unless you have air-con in your van, summer nights can be uncomfortably warm. Enter the Campacool Cooling Mattress Topper from Airospring! Available in single, double and king sizes, it sits on top of your bed for extra comfort in the warmer months. The key to the mattress is its PCM (phase changing material), which takes heat from the body and promotes evaporation. We tried out the mattress topper on two warm nights and were very impressed with its performance, keeping us cool and comfortable. It packs neatly away in its own bag, and the cover is machine washable, too. Price £189.99 Web campingtoppers.co.uk…

Why we love the great outdoors I've been getting out and about at s everal campsites this month, including in wonderful Scotland, and overleaf, we've listed some forthcoming events there, with plenty to entertain you. What I've particularly liked about my recent trips is the camaraderie I've found at on site. Everyone is so friendly, from offering firelighters for a beach barbecue to stopping for a quick chat, it's been an absolute joy and a reminder of why we all love being in the great outdoors. Talking of which, we've lined up some superb tours for you this month! First up is the Forest of Bowland, in Lancashire, where Nigel Hutson finds a bubbling hotpot of witchcraft and history (p24). Meanwhile, wonderful Wales takes centre stage for Andria Massey, on…

GETAWAY TRAVEL GETAWAY I'VE SAID IT before, but every now and then, you just need to stop and do a little bit of nothing very much. Normally, our weekends away are full of activity – exploring, sightseeing. We do plenty of walking, we drive to neighbouring towns and nearby attractions, we squeeze every last drop out of our breaks. But this time, it was different. Over the past months, my husband Ro's work has seen him traipsing around the country, so when we had the chance of a springtime weekend away, we decided it was time to switch off for a while. Leisure time Cue a short break at Riverside Caravan Park, in Stratford-upon-Avon, with nothing to do but enjoy the weather and the scenery. Don't get me wrong, though –…

Make a beeline for the Harrogate show I am looking forward to what was the Lawns Show, which will be opening in September for the first time since the pandemic – not least because the new event, now called the Great Holiday Home Show, will be in Harrogate, which is a brilliant place for a show. (It also happens to be only an hour's drive from where I live, which is always a bonus!) Even when it was still in Cottingham, the September event was always a great place to take stock of all the new-season models in one go. The public part of the event takes place from 8-10 September 2023; find out more at www.thegreatholidayhomeshow.co.uk. PETER peter.baber@futurenet.com Reviews editor PETER BABER is a hugely experienced caravanner who enjoys…

CUT OUT AND KEEP GUIDE! THE REAL BEAUTY of England's north-eastern counties is that they're perhaps some of the least visited in the UK, so you can get back to nature and experience genuine tranquility, without the crowds that can make some places a bit of a trial. In particular, the beaches are spectacular and perfect for dog owners. Plus, you've got a huge choice of pretty towns and villages to explore, and more fabulous castles than you can poke a stick at! These range from the dramatic coastal ruins at Dunstanburgh to superb Alnwick Castle, with its Harry Potter credentials and splendid gardens. For city-lovers, a day trip to explore Newcastle-upon-Tyne is another great attraction. While you're there, don't miss the beautiful Quayside area, and the brilliant (and free)…

KNOW-HOW // SUMMER HOTSPOTS FANCY A SPOT of leisurely shopping and the chance to take in some history? Then Norwich and Cambridge are sure to deliver – these two vibrant cities have their own great stories to tell. Perhaps you prefer to get some fresh sea air instead? Then look no further than the picturesque Norfolk coast. Alternatively, you might want to immerse yourself in nature. Then this region ticks the right boxes again, with the beautiful Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Broads National Park just two of the many local attractions. Summer events ● You can perfect your cooking skills (or just enjoy superb food!) at Norwich Foodies Festival on 8-10 September 2023. At this foodie's paradise, MasterChef champions will provide expert cooking demonstrations, while stars…

CUT OUT AND KEEP GUIDE! CENTRED ON BRISTOL and Bath, this region is one that many people seem to speed through on their way south to Devon or Cornwall. But that's a shame, because there are plenty of reasons to stop and sample what this lively part of the world has to offer visitors. Historic Bath is a great place to start, with its Roman history, amazing architecture, great shops and lively cultural vibe. If nature's your thing, head down to the Mendip Hills AONB and check out the natural splendours of Cheddar Gorge. The vast limestone ravine is unmissable, but consider leaving the tourist area at the foot of the valley behind and hiking up to the top of the gorge for sensational views. Summer events ● The Bristol…

KNOW-HOW // SUMMER HOTSPOTS THE PICTURE-PERFECT coastlines and beaches offer plenty of super seaside walks, with breathtaking scenery for company. There are also loads of opportunities for excellent surfing, with iconic Newquay remaining a particularly popular place for getting out on the water. A visit to the ruins of Tintagel will allow you to immerse yourself in the great Arthurian legends, while the numerous fishing villages and coves offer visitors a spectacular reminder of Cornwall's fine maritime heritage. For a more mysterious experience, how about a visit to picturesque, atmospheric Bodmin Moor? Just keep your eyes peeled for any beasts! Summer events ● What better way to say fond farewells to a brilliant 2023 touring season than heading to the UK's surf capital, to enjoy excellent beer and great music…

■ 2017 VW ARTEON 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG Price £16,985 Kerbweight 1643kg Found at Dealer Car type Hatchback Miles 71,000 Info Full service history, one previous owner This sleek saloon has real road presence and excellent towing abilities. Arteon is also arguably the most stylish way that you can experience VAG's amazing 2.0-litre TDI engine. The judges said “We all know nothing matters more than stability in a tow car. The Arteon is unperturbable, whatever you throw at it. Crosswinds? No trouble. High speeds? Easy-peasy. Emergency manoeuvres? Not a problem.” ■ 2018 BMW 520d x Drive Price £23,450 Kerbweight 1810kg Found at Dealer Car type Touring (Estate) Miles 80,000 Info Full service history, two previous owners You'll find cheaper versions, but this bad boy is loaded with extras, from panoramic…

Watching the pennies The cost of energy still remains high at the moment, and you're sure to have noticed that reflected in the price of gas – we caravanners rely on this fuel, so it hits the pocket hard when costs go up. Which is why our regular writer Sam Coles is singing the virtues of induction hobs this issue: these allow you to cook efficiently on the electric hook-up that you're already paying for, potentially saving you money (and time) in the long run. You'll find his article on p106. Also in this issue, we've a round-up of essential security measures (p100), and the start of a new caravan project (p104). OUR TECH EXPERTS practical.caravan@futurenet.com AT SKILLS SCHOOL THIS ISSUE… In depth 100 Stop that thief! Caravans and their…

Kerbweight As defined by EU Directive 95/48/EC (which still applies), the car or other vehicle's weight with a 90% full fuel tank, all necessary fluids, 68kg for the driver and 7kg of luggage. This is the figure that is used to calculate a tow car match GTW Gross train weight) The maximum allowable combined weight of the towing vehicle and the caravan, as specified by the maker of the towing vehicle Hook-up Cable connection to the mains electrical supply at a campsite. Provides power to mains sockets and appliances Maximum towing limit The greatest weight that a car can legally tow, as specified by the manufacturer of the towing vehicle MiRO (Mass in running order) The caravan's weight, with all factory-fitted equipment, when it leaves the factory MiRO replaces ‘ex-works…

People's needs differ, and your layout choice will depend on your companions and how you want to use your caravan To understand which layouts are available, spend a day at one of the big shows (now they are back on), where dealers and manufacturers show their latest models A dealership is also a good place to start, but can be affiliated with a limited number of manufacturers A chat with a dealer, though, could raise issues or offer ideas you hadn't considered Think about your needs: will you want to carry bikes, sports kit, barbecues or outdoor furniture? Perhaps creature comforts are a bit higher on your list; you might want a separate sleeping area, a lounge with parallel sofas and TV points, and an oven If you plan to…

Caravan and Motorhome Club 01342 326 944 caravanclub.co.uk The Camping and Caravanning Club 024 7647 5448 campingandcaravanningclubco.uk CRiS 020 3282 1000 www.cris.co.uk Approved Workshop Scheme www.approvedworkshops.co.uk NCC (National Caravan Council) thencc.org.uk Caravan Storage Site Owners' Association (CaSSOA) 0843 216 5802 www.cassoa.co.uk Towsafe towsafe.co.uk DVLA 0300 790 6801 www.gov.uk/dvla  Mobile Caravan Engineers Association (MCEA) 01249 651 036 mobilecaravanengineers.co.uk For the very latest reviews and brilliant buying guides, visit the Practical Caravan website – you'll find us at www.practicalcaravan.com…