Why does it have to be so difficult to book.....

Yes, a lot of them don't help themselves do they, Kj?

Our recent trip away only needed 3 cls but we had problems with 2 of them, one not returning a message left on an answerphone (why do people have these things if they don't check them?) and the other not replying to an email, both chased up via more phone calls.

 I've always found that a phone call trumps most other ways unless the owner knows how to run their own website well.

I emailed a CL once, but had received no reply over a week later so I rang them. I mentioned the lack of reply to me email. Oh we don't do email she said, my son insisted we had one so he did it, but we never use it .  

Phone call is always easier. You can ask the relevent questions as well before booking. I wouldnt blame the CL owners for incorrect details in handbook or on website. We have come across CLs listed in a totally different location to where they actually are!

We've been fortunate then with our bookings recently. For our next trip a couple of phone calls, and 2 e-mails which were responded to within 18 hrs have secured us a pitch on each of the 4 sites. A couple wanted deposits, one of 1 night's fee and done over the phone, and the second for 2 night's fee and could have been by bank transfer or cheque, which we used.

Would you be willing to highlight the sites which had incorrect info on the CC's web site, Kjell?

What's most annoying is when you leave a message on an answerphone and then not get a response....as has happened to us.

The one that was only basic was Wykeham Lakes, the one that does not have any HSs was Stretton Lakes.

Just had to pay up for all three days booked at a CL, but at least they responded promptly. They do vary a lot but no doubt many CL owners are busy doing other things, you need to be patient with some. 

Thanks, Kjell. When are you down in Lincolnshire?

Yes, can understand farm CLs and similar taking a day or two, but if it is a pub, hotel or country park, I would expect thm to be more on the ball.

No problem with a deposit, we have paid several, but like to know about it beforehand.

Some really put very minimal details on their listing, and often no pictures.

We tend to avoid those with no details, or without pictures, and those with no or very few reviews.

We're very similar in our choises, as we too like to view what the site is like, but will visit one if there are decent reviews or a recommendation from friends or other posters on CT.