A tale of two sites

Novaman replied on 07/06/2023 16:32

Posted on 07/06/2023 16:32

Recently visited two sites and the differences were startling. Stopped for a couple of nights at Chapel Lane and, having ben there many times, was disappointed by the run down appearance of the site. In spite of having 70 occupied units, only the small ( 3 male wc's) was open! Both this block, and the slightly larger one, are ancient, with shower water running across the floor, poor ventilation, discoloured grout and a general air of decay. Most of the hard standings are covered in weeds and the tarmacked areas have months of organic debris lying about.

On then to Hawes and what a difference. This site is looked after to the nth degree and is beautifully presented by the hardest working team of wardens I have observed in a long time.

I notice that planning permission has been applied for for camping pods. Members have Caravans or Motorhomes and do not use pods therefor why are they needed? The money needed for projects like this should be used to upgrade poor sites which DOES benefit members. Site fees are now very high and I for one resent poor sites!

Francis replied on 08/06/2023 13:31

Posted on 08/06/2023 13:31

We have used Chapel Lane almost every year for the past 20 years on our way south for our main summer trip and a couple of years ago we stayed there for a week. I must admit we do like the site and would go again but it is getting a bit rub down we noted that last year when the grass was badly overgrown and the pitches were full of weeds also the vans that appear to be there full time don’t help 

eurortraveller replied on 08/06/2023 14:19

Posted on 08/06/2023 14:19

If you are unhappy with ChapelLane pay a visit to Marc and Angela’’s site at Somers Wood at  Meriden - about 15 minutes round the M42. We knew it when they started from scratch and have built up to 48 pitches now. It’s well run, but you won’t gain on price. They follow Chapel Lane prices pretty closely, but give a couple of pounds off for CAMC members.

Randomcamper replied on 08/06/2023 17:29

Posted on 08/06/2023 17:29

I'm afraid I agree with the issues at Chapel Lane. I stayed there the last Sunday ( going into Monday)  of the Easter school holiday, but was charged the holiday price even though the holiday was effectively over, my choice I realise.

But I was disappointed to find they had closed one of the shower blocks, presumably to save money and/or work for the wardens meaning there were only 3 showers  in the other block. I actually had to queue for a shower, the first time that has happened on a club site for a long time for me.

It's a great shame if Chapel Lane is going downhill as it is a great location for us as we shuffle north to south.  Certainly I was left feeling that I might try an alternative site, but difficult to beat the easy motorway access and the farm shop next door.....

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