The Great Outdoors

TRAILBLAZERS OF UK TRAVEL

Posted on November 12, 2024

Campsites across the UK have won in this year’s Caravan and Motorhome Club’s 2024 Awards for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, as well as best newcomer and the Sustainability Award that recognises valuable work being undertaken to protect the environment.

The awards celebrate privately-owned, maximum five-pitch campsites certified locations (CLs) – that are open exclusively to Caravan and Motorhome Club members. Many CLs are found in the countryside and remote locations such as farms, country estates and inns, providing a valuable and additional income stream for the campsite’s owners and local communities, whilst offering more choice for Club members to get out in the great outdoors.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club has been a cornerstone of outdoor adventure in the UK for over 116 years, proudly representing the interests of more than 1.1 million caravan, motorhome, campervan, and trailer tent owners. The Club champions the spirit of adventure, helping members make the most of the great outdoors— whether through glamping, touring, or simply enjoying nature.

With an annual membership fee of just £63, members gain access to over 2,700 high-quality campsites across the UK and Europe, all curated to ensure a great value experience. As the UK’s No. 1 rated touring club, the Caravan and Motorhome Club goes above and beyond to deliver savings and exclusive offers, both for touring adventures and at home.

Members can also explore a range of escorted European tours, all protected by ABTA, as well as independent tours in Australasia, North America, and Southern Africa, providing peace of mind during their travels.

With expert advice, comprehensive overseas travel services, and tailored insurance options, the Caravan and Motorhome Club is dedicated to enriching its members’ experiences. To discover more about the benefits of membership and join a community passionate about outdoor adventures.

The Caravan & Motorhome Club
01342 318 813
www.camc.com

THIS YEAR’S WINNERS INCLUDE…

BEST CL IN WALES & OVERALL CL WINNER
Brambles in Anglesey

Brambles is the only campsite to win two categories in this year’s CL awards. The adult-only campsite is perfect for those looking for beach, waterside or peaceful stays.

It is owned by Eric and Sue Marchbanks, avid caravanners themselves, who are members of the Caravan and Motorhome Club and have travelled far and wide in their motorhome, as far as Czechoslovakia.

The campsite offers scenic walkways among three ponds, trees and shrubs, perfect for dog walkers and offers plenty of wildlife for those who like to get close to nature, tourers can expect to find red squirrels, rabbits and ravens.

Owner, Eric comments: “Winning an award is recognition that we are making guests happy and they are wanting to stay here and are enjoying the area surrounding us.”

 

BEST CL IN ENGLAND NORTH
Drake House Farm in Lancashire

Drake House Farm is owned by Ann Chippendale and is located in the Ribble Valley just three miles from the market town of Clitheroe.

The campsite is known for its gorgeous views, excellent dog walks and wildlife. The campsite has peaceful pitches, is an area of outstanding beauty, with its own woodland with a brook.

Owner, Ann Chippendale comments: “It truly is a beautiful location, it’s like the Lake District without the crowds”.

 

 

 

BEST CL IN ENGLAND SOUTH
Goodleigh Hill in Worcestershire

Goodleigh Hill is situated in an ideal spot to explore South Worcestershire and the North Cotswolds.

The campsite is known for its scenic views, dog walks and its convenient location to nearby local eateries and pubs and a short walk to the town of Pershore.

Owners, Matthew and Emily Horton, have ensured the CL is peaceful and clean. It is convenient for those who want to explore the beautiful Malvern Hills and the Malvern Spring.

Emily comments: “Matthew really wanted to help increase the biodiversity here, and he saw that creating a CL that is viable in the fabulous rural countryside would allow him to fulfil his ideas and increase wildlife here.”

 

 

BEST CL IN SCOTLAND & NORTHERN IRELAND
Firbank Park in Aberdeenshire

Firbank Park is set in the beautiful Royal Deeside within Cairngorms National Park, perfect for those who enjoy nature and tranquillity.

The five-acre campsite has hardstanding pitches that are spaced out and each pitch offers an electric hook up and their own fresh water source.

The campsite, owned by Archie and Justine Buchanan, is close to an abundance of walking trails, cycling tracks, and Munros (mountains at least 3,000 ft high) to climb. Additionally, fishing and horse riding are available on the nearby Glen Tanar Estate.

Archie comments: “We have built somewhere that we would want to go to, so we’re hoping that other people will like that as well, and it seems to be the case. It’s like being on our holidays.”

 

BEST NEWCOMER
The Courts in Essex

The Courts campsite, owned by Paul and Collette Murphy, is set in the serene woodlands of Little Baddow and is great for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Tourers can access a multitude of forest rambles and embrace the local wildlife, head off on their bikes for an off-road adventure or visit the local dock for boat rides, canoeing and paddle boarding.

Despite the area’s rural setting, Little Baddow is also close to several larger towns and cities, including Maldon and Chelmsford.

Owner, Paul Murphy comments: “We have lovely walks through ancient woods directly from the site. We’ve got a local pub, local restaurant, paddleboarding and the river nearby so we have a lot to offer.”

 

SUSTAINABILITY AWARD
Birch Hill in Shropshire

Birch Hill campsite is located in the beautiful lake-lands of Shropshire. The campsite, owned by Major Ian and Janet Kelly, was established over 40 years ago and over the years has received various awards.

This is the 2nd year for the Sustainability Award and Birch Hill has been recognised in this category for its Dark Skies initiative, local links with shops, restaurants and pubs, promotion of formaldehyde-free chemicals on site, and use of renewable energy and water consumption controls.

The campsite is on one of the main Land’s End to John O’Groats cycle routes and Ellesmere is also a great spot for country walks, dog walking and bird watching. Owner, Major Ian Kelly comments:

“Sustainability is not just about what we do around the site, but it’s also about what our guests do - whether it is efficient recycling or helping our local economy, it’s important to note that they’re the ones helping to keep our local shops alive for us.”

SITES IN BLOOM AWARD
Pembrey Country Park Club Campsite & Fairlight Wood Club Campsite

The multi-couple campsite winner for 2024 is Pembrey Country Park Club Campsite in Wales for the second-year running.

Pembrey Country Park Club Campsite is known for its phenomenal summer flowers display and blend of coast and countryside. The 2024 single-couple campsite winner is Fairlight Wood Club Campsite in East Sussex.

This intimate campsite set in flower rich woodland has plenty of footpaths for tourers to wander along. The campsite’s surrounding woodlands are listed as a Biodiversity area that is ideal for nature lovers and spotting wildlife.

 

 

 

 

SITES TO INSPIRE AWARDS
MULTI-COUPLE SITE WINNER
Cayton Village Club Campsite

Cayton Village Club Campsite in North Yorkshire is the 2024 winner of the multi-couple campsite category.

Cayton Village Campsite has had some great improvements over the past few years which has helped to increase visitor satisfaction scores for overall facilities to 9.8 out of 10.

The new improvements include two brand new shower blocks, more touring pitches and new premium pitches, a new designated dog walking area, a multi-use games area and an enclosed playground.

Regional Manager, Phil Monkman, said: “Cayton Village is a relatively newly refurbished site and the campsite staff have worked very hard over the last few seasons to add a unique character.”

 

 

SITES TO INSPIRE AWARDS
SINGLE-COUPLE SITE WINNER
Baltic Wharf Club Campsite

Baltic Wharf Club Campsite in Bristol is the 2024 winner of the single-couple campsite category. This campsite is located in the heart of Bristol’s beautifully redeveloped dockland, near the city centre with lively shops and entertainment.

There is also a selection of boat trips available nearby for tourers looking to discover gorgeous scenic views in the county and many excellent cycling paths for those desiring for an adventure.

Regional Manager, Mark Houghton, said: “Despite the known and inevitable future closure of the campsite, newly promoted site managers Lyndsay & ‘Chelle have placed their hearts and souls into the campsite throughout the season and their comment sums up their enthusiasm: ‘We may not have any control over the campsite’s future, but we CAN control her last season, meaning Baltic Wharf won’t simply fade away with us here to see it out on a high.’”

 

 

SUSTAINABILITY CHAIRMAN’S AWARD
Blackpool South Club Campsite

Also running for its fourth consecutive year is the Sustainability Chairman’s Award, created to celebrate the campsite network’s environmental, social and economic commitments, actions and engagements.

From tree planting and waste reduction projects, growing wild meadows, hosting local food vendors and raising money for local charities, a great range of sustainable activities have taken place at campsites throughout the year.

The entrants were judged on the award criteria by the Club Chairman, David Turner, who made the final decision on the winner of the 2024 Sustainability Chairman’s Award. The 2024 winner is Blackpool South Club Campsite in Blackpool, Lancashire.

The campsite was awarded for its new improvements this year to establish a sustainable environment for their guests. This includes more serviced pitches, upgraded motorhome waste point, roadway resurfacing, solar PV roof panels which provide renewable energy, and ongoing pitch improvements and resurfacing.

 

The Great Outdoors

Posted on July 2, 2015

The Great Outdoors

ABOVE: Transforming your outdoor areas needn’t be a daunting task. Investing in a few simple and cost effective measures can go a long way in improving aesthetics, comfort and services for guests.

ABOVE: Transforming your outdoor areas needn’t be a daunting task. Investing in a few simple and cost effective measures can go a long way in improving aesthetics, comfort and services for guests.

Switched on holiday park operators who maximise the outdoor experience will ultimately reap the rewards….

It is estimated that the average person spends 90 per cent of their time indoors; at work, at home and in recreational settings.
In fact, research by NetVoucherCodes.co.uk found that the average UK resident now spends nine hours every day glued to a computer, phone or tablet screen - a shocking total of 30 years throughout life.
With that in mind, it’s no wonder that the outdoor experience of a holiday park or campsite stay appeals to so many of us. A chance to escape the daily work routine and enjoy the fresh air, activities and associated benefits of being outdoors for a few days each year.
Switched-on park owners, who optimise their outdoor offering, can reap rich rewards from holidaymakers who will pay extra for high-spec facilities and luxuries. From outdoor hot tubs to stateofthe-art furniture, fitness and play equipment, making the most of your outdoor areas can be a wise investment.
Transforming your outdoor areas needn’t be a daunting task. Investing in a few simple and cost effective measures can go a long way in improving aesthetics, comfort and services for guests.

Designed as a hybrid hot tub, Urban Cedar’s Sport range combines the stunning looks of a solid wood hot tub with the comfort, lower maintenance and lower running costs of a modern polymer hot tub.

ABOVE: Designed as a hybrid hot tub, Urban Cedar’s Sport range combines the stunning looks of a solid wood hot tub with the comfort, lower maintenance and lower running costs of a modern polymer hot tub.

INSIDE OUT

“A well-maintained outdoor area is essential and helps set the bar high,” says Hanna Latham, marketing manager at Besp-Oak Furniture.
“Park competition is fierce and by having a safe, clean and tidy outdoor area, guests are more likely to appreciate their surroundings and will return year after year.” Coventry-based Besp-Oak Furniture is a trade only supplier of indoor and outdoor furniture, accessories and lighting. New to the market this year is the wicker and furniture range plus a selection of decorative water features.

Hanna adds: “Bringing the outside in and the inside out is all the rage at the moment. Outdoor wicker and rattan furniture for example, can transform an ordinary outdoor space into an openair living room that adds value and comfort all year round.” Besp-Oak also offers two eco patio heater models – the ECONRG3 and the ECO-MEDIA which are ideal for decking, patios, balconies and smoking areas. Both models use carbon fibre heating technology which significantly reduces running costs and cuts carbon dioxide emissions by up to 50 percent in comparison to standard gas patio heaters.
“Comfort is key so that guests can truly relax. We advise providing shelter in outdoor areas such as gazebos and canopies to make sure that rain doesn’t stop play,” says Hanna. “To encourage guests to enjoy the outdoors into the evening, don’t forget to consider heating and lighting options too.”

PLAY TIME

Creating an innovative play space that fires a child’s imagination is part of a winning formula for holiday parks. Pic: Timberplay

ABOVE: Creating an innovative play space that fires a child’s imagination
is part of a winning formula for holiday parks. Pic: Timberplay

There is no better way of enhancing and enriching an outdoor space than by investing in play equipment. Creating an innovative play space that fires a child’s imagination and creates a pleasant environment for parents to get together is a winning formula for holiday parks.
“It is not only the play equipment that goes into creating an exciting play space. The landscaping, mounds, planting and surfaces can also be very effective in boosting play value - often for a fraction of the cost of the equipment,” says Paul Collings, managing director at Timberplay.
He continues: “Waterplay is very popular at the moment as it offers excellent play value and delights children of all ages.
Sand play is also an excellent play addition as it not only delivers several opportunities for play, but also serves as the perfect safety surface.”
Timberplay was an early advocate of the natural play movement and its equipment is designed to offer multiple levels of challenge, to stimulate children across a wide age range.
Paul adds: “Typically holiday parks look to spend a relatively small budget on play, maybe in the region of £30,000, but there are some more exclusive sites that will invest more heavily, in order to create a stand out play experience that encourages repeat business.”
Last year Timberplay was involved in the provision of the outdoor play facilities at Center Parcs Woburn.
One of the play areas, situated at Huck’s Diner has a bespoke tower at its centre, with multiple slides and climbing nets.
This unique combination provides a variety of heights and graduated challenge, making it perfect for children from the very small through to pre-teens. Toddlers also have dedicated robust equipment, in the form of swinging horses and trim trail equipment, platform houses, slides and a climbing net.
A smaller play area at the village, near to the Sports Café, features one of the first dwarf castles installed within the UK. The tower enables younger children to experience the exhilaration of climbing, honing their skills before they move onto the bigger equipment at Huck’s Diner.

AL FRESCO FITNESS

Family-run Play & Leisure has recently expanded its product catalogue with the launch of the Zone outdoor fitness range.
Ideally suited to holiday parks, the range includes standalone equipment such as the Leg Push, Dip Bars, Walker, Slalom, and Sit Up Bench plus the complete Fitness Station.
Vicki Buckley of Play & Leisure comments: “A great way for guests to keep fit in the fresh air, the Zone fitness range is specifically designed to improve muscle tone, stamina, balance, coordination and flexibility. It offers a variety of exercise at different levels of difficulty to work out the whole body.” Play & Leisure specialise in the manufacture of outdoor play Overlooking one of the valleys in Mid Wales, Play & Leisure’s bespoke four tower mountain range unit and two seat swing has become a popular attraction for families holidaying at Bryn Uchel Holiday Park in Powys.
The experts at Play & Leisure were commissioned to turn the park owner’s play area designs into reality and worked closely with the local planning officials to ensure that the play zone was sympathetic to the natural surroundings.
Vicki Buckley of Play & Leisure explains: “Work was carried out outside of peak season to reduce the impact on the holidaymakers at the park. The park re-opened for the summer season and has been well received since.
She adds: “With our 25 year structural guarantee you can be sure that holidaymakers will be enjoying Bryn Uchel Caravan Park and its new play area for years to come.”

Play & Leisure provided the much needed play facilities for Bryn Uchel Caravan Park Powys, which include a bespoke four tower unit and swing

ABOVE: Play & Leisure provided the much needed play facilities for Bryn
Uchel Caravan Park Powys, which include a bespoke four tower unit and swing

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CONTRIBUTING COMPANY CONTACTS

BESP-OAK FURNITURE  Tel. +44 (0)2476 632148 www.besp-oak.com

BUSCHBECK Tel. +44 (0)2476 474440 www.buschbeck.co.uk

PLAY & LEISURE LTD Tel. +44 (0)1244 546797 www.playandleisure.org.uk

URBAN CEDAR Tel. +44 (0)1934 833 844 www.urbancedarhottubs.co.uk

NBB LTD Tel. 0800 1777 052 www.nobutts.co.uk

TIMBERPLAY Tel. +44 (0)1142 823474 www.timberplay.com