When you’re tired of staring at the same four walls and need to escape the household chores it’s time to get away. There’s nothing better than hitching up your trusty tourer and heading to one of the many caravan sites for a break. Site fees can vary so it’s always wise to do your homework before you set off.
Don’t worry, we’ve done some of the legwork on your behalf, checking out a handful of the caravan touring sites around the UK. Whilst we can’t list every site, we can you give you an insight into a few! So before you hitch up your touring caravan and head for the open road please read on….
Table of Contents
Can I Skip Touring Sites and Just Go Wild Camping?
UK law clearly states you can’t just pull up wherever you please and enjoy an impromptu holiday, or even an overnight break in your tourer. However tempting a spot of wild camping may seem, in England, Wales and Northern Ireland you will have to gain permission from the landowner before you set up and settle down. Scotland does permit wild camping, but there are restrictions, and motor vehicles must abide by access rights (see the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and the Road Traffic Act for further details).
So, with this in mind it’s wise to plan your journey. Whether you’re journeying to one specific destination or heading off on a road-trip that will include multiple stops, it’s a good idea to check out your options in advance.
Finding a Touring Caravan Site That Suits Your Needs
How do you find a touring caravan site that suits your needs? A number of factors will play a part in your choice, these include:
- Location
Which region(s) would you like to visit? E.g. Cornwall, Lake District, Ceredigion etc. Are you planning to stay in one place or multiple sites?
- Setting
Would you like to beside the sea? Alternatively, you might prefer to be within walking distance of the local town, in a woodland area etc.
- Layout
Would you prefer to stay at a smaller site that’s been designed solely for touring caravans? Or maybe you like the idea of a larger site which has spaced out pitches and plenty of room for children to play.
- Facilities
What do you need in terms of facilities? Perhaps you are looking for a site that’s accessible for disabled guests. You should also think about what you would like to see on-site. Maybe your idea of heaven is a site with its own fishing lake, or you would love to enjoy a drink at a convenient on-site club house.
- Touring caravan site fees
Fees vary from site to site, let’s explore this in further detail:
How Much Will I Have to Pay for a Touring Caravan Site?
The cost of staying at a caravan touring site is based on a number of factors (we’ve mentioned some of those already e.g. location, setting, layout, and facilities). As you would expect seasonal variances also come into play, so you will typically pay a higher rate during high season (summer months, school holidays etc). With so many touring sites across the UK it can be difficult to know where to start, let’s take a look at a few of those advertised online:
Touring Caravan Site Fees Down South
Situated within striking distance of the north coast of Cornwall, Hendra Holiday Park lies in 80 acres of parkland and offers expansive pitches. You can opt for being central to the facilities (such as the washroom and launderette) or stay on the periphery (where you get to take in the breath-taking vistas).
Visitors won’t be short of things to do at Hendra. You can enjoy a swim in the indoor or outdoor pool, make the most of the entertainment passes, and sit down for a nice meal at the Terrace Restaurant. There’s also a climbing wall, playground, indoor amusements and even a Hippo Safari Land Train (amongst other activities). If you can’t bear to parted from your social media account, or just like to check in with the outside world, you can make use of the on-site Wi-Fi (this is free in certain areas).
Pitches & Tariff:
There are plenty of pitches to choose from, including dog-friendly and dog-free standard grassed pitches. These are available with and without electric hook up (240v via 16-amp socket). Hendra also offers large landscaped hardstanding pitches and grand premium pitches. Neither of these are suitable for pets, but both feature service bollards, electricity, water, lighting, and waste drainage. Prices are per night and based upon adult (15+) child (3-14) toddler (under 2). Here’s a snapshot of the 2020 fees:
| March
Sat 28.03.20 |
May
Sat 16.05.20 |
July
Sat 25.07.20 |
September
Sat 26.09.20 |
|
| Adult | £6.55 | £6.55 | £13.85 | £3.28 |
| Child | £2.05 | £2.05 | £9.90 | £1.03 |
| Toddler | Free | Free | Free | Free |
| Standard Pitch
Electric |
£6.85 | £6.85 | £9.95 | £6.85 |
| Large Pitch
Electric |
N/A | £11.65 | £12.65 | N/A |
| Super Pitch | £18.95 | £18.95 | £23.50 | £18.95 |
| Premium Pitch | £19.90 | £19.90 | £26.95 | £19.90 |
| Silver Leaf | N/A | £18.40 | £18.95 | N/A |
| Gold Leaf | N/A | £26.95 | £26.95 | N/A |
| Dog Limited Fields | £5.10 | £5.10 | £7.15 | £5.10 |
| Vehicle | £2.90 | £2.90 | £3.85 | £2.90 |
Touring Caravan Site Fees Up North
If you like the idea of combining countryside views with rugged beaches, Shepherds Views Holidays could be right up your street. Located in West Cumbria in the Lake District, the farm, camping and touring site has attained Visit England 4-star Camping & Touring Park status, and is the perfect place for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits. Mere minutes from the beach, Shepherds Views is a haven for water sports enthusiasts – climb aboard a paddle board, take out a kayak or try your hand at sailing. Right next door to Shepherds Views lies Scafell Pike. After a hard day hiking you can treat yourself to a welcome hot shower in the heated washroom.
Pitches & Tariff
Guests are invited to check-in from 1pm and must vacate pitches by 11am on the day of departure. A fully serviced hard standing includes electric hook-up and is suitable for a car and caravan. There are a few extras you also need to be aware of (listed below). You can take along a maximum of two dogs – but keep in mind your four-legged friends must be kept on lead at all times and should not left unattended. High season includes public holidays, bank holidays and school holidays.
| Per Night | |
| Adult | £4.00 |
| Child (under 16) | £2.50 |
| Hard standing low season | £15 |
| Hard standing high season | £17 |
| Extra car | £1 |
| Gazebo | £2 |
| Dogs | £2 |
Touring Caravan Site Fees in The Midlands
Measham House Farm boasts a tranquil setting, in the grounds of a Georgian farmhouse. The touring site in the National Forest and is conveniently close to Ashby De La Zouche, Measham and Twycross Zoo. There are plenty of walks nearby too, and Measham House welcomes dogs, so canine companions can join you as you stretch your legs.
On-site facilities include washrooms and you will also find an Elsan disposal point and a standpipe with water in both of the fields. Proprietors mention that a torch might come in handy too (certain areas are unlit).
Pitches & Tariffs
Measham House Farm offers grass pitches (minimum 10m wide x 15m deep) with electric hook up (16 amp).
| Per Night | Per Stay | |
| Pitch for 2 adults | From £20 | |
| Extra car | £3 | |
| Gazebo | £2 | |
| Awning | £3 | |
| Pup tent | £2 |
Touring Caravan Site Fees in Wales
If you’re looking for peace and quiet Parc Derwen Touring Park, near Betws-y-Coed in North Wales, could be the place for you. This adult only park has 23 pitches, wi-fi is available, and guests have access to washroom facilities. There’s also a purpose-built accessible bathroom for disabled guests. Dogs are welcome (but must be kept on a lead) and there’s a designated dog walking area for you to use too.
Pitches & Tariffs
Guests can check in from 1pm and must leave by 11am on departure day. All of the pitches at Parc Derwen are fully serviced and include water, waste drainage, TV arial and electric. High season includes bank holidays and dates during summer (July and August).
| Low season | High season | |
| Pitch, car, caravan and 2 adults | £26 | £28 |
| Extra adult | £4 | £4 |
| Awning | £1.50 | £1.50 |
Touring Caravan Site Fees Further up North
Keep your eyes open for the Nessie! As its name suggests, the Loch Ness Highland Resort is situated very close (around a five-minute stroll) to the famous Loch. Located in a village called Fort Augustus, the resort is also a short drive from Urquhart Castle, and if you travel a little further you will happen upon the Scottish city of Inverness.
If you prefer to stay on-site you can have a bite to eat in the restaurant, browse the gift shop or try your hand at something more active – archery and water sports are both available. Guests can make use of the modern washroom amenities and can also utilise the BBQ stations dotted around the site.
Pitches and Tariff
Loch Ness Highland Resort offers electric (16 amp) hardstanding touring pitches which accommodate a maximum of one unit (6 people). Pitches are 9m wide x 9m deep and twin axle vehicles can be accommodated. Fees start at £25 per night.
Guests can park up one car (an extra car will cost £5 per stay) and you can also take an awning, and up to two dogs. There’s a chemical waste disposal point and Wi-Fi can be accessed from your pitch. The proprietors point out that neither gazebos or pup tents are allowed on-site.
Things to Consider
It’s always a good idea to do your own research on any caravan touring site you are interested in. Make sure the site has everything you are looking for, fits your budget and has a good reputation. Reviews will give you a flavour of what others make of the facilities etc but do keep in mind that opinions can vary.
Here’s a quick roundup of things to think about before you go ahead and book:
- Where is the touring site located?
- Does the site fit your specific needs e.g. disabled facilities, pet-friendly etc.
- Who is the touring site most suited to e.g. younger groups, adults only
- Do the pitches fit your needs in terms of size, type e.g. hardstanding etc.
- Is the site well-designed and laid out in a functional way?
- Is the site well-maintained and looked after?
- What facilities are on-site for you to use?
- Do staff communicate well during booking and are they helpful on-site?
- Does the site have a good reputation? It’s a good idea to read a few reviews.
- Does the site offer value for money?
- What does the price include and do you have to pay for any extras?
- What time can you check-in and what time do you need to depart?
- What days can you start and finish my holiday on?
- How do you book the touring site, and is there a cancellation policy?
- Do you need to pay a deposit up front and how do you pay the balance?
On arrival you will be directed to your pitch. It’s not always possible to park next to your caravan, you might be asked to move your vehicle to a parking area. This is usually to prevent damage to grassy areas (and can also make the site look less cluttered). Once you are set up familiarise yourself with the touring site. Find out where the facilities, such as washrooms and water pipes, are situated. You can also explore the nearby area (maps may be available) and find out about local attractions etc.
With so many sites to choose from you will be spoilt for choice. There are secluded sites with a “wild camping” feel and bigger and bolder sites which often come complete with a plethora of facilities including shops, restaurants, play areas and pools. Why not plan a memorable road trip and visit a few different places?
We wish you safe travels and hope you find the right caravan touring site for you – happy touring!