<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><rss version="2.0"><channel xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"><title>Extracts Rss Feed</title><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/extracts/rss</link><description>Extracts Rss Feed</description><atom:link href="https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/extracts/rss" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/club-magazine-makeover/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/club-magazine-makeover/</link><title>Club Magazine makeover</title><description><p>The January issue heralds the start of a fresh and contemporary look, and also sees big changes in terms of content, with our members at the heart.</p>
<p><strong>Fascinating features for all</strong></p>
<p>We’ve introduced two fascinating articles featuring members as they travel the length and breadth of the UK on their adventures.</p>
<p>Also look out for a new column with the TV presenter of BBC One Man and His Campervan, Martin Dorey, as he explores the great outdoors with a sense of humour and expert eye.</p>
<p>With an emphasis on countryside pursuits, the former ‘Nature’s Way’ feature has been reworked to focus on what’s happening in our gardens to the hills and dales we all know and love.</p>
<p><strong>A regional view</strong></p>
<p>To showcase our sites by location, we’ve combined our Club site and Certificated Location’s section into an all-encompassing inspiring regional view – to help you find the perfect site.</p>
<p><strong>Club Matters</strong></p>
<p>Our new ’Club Matters’ series shows how you can benefit from The Club’s products and services as a member of The Club.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We hope you like all the improvements.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2016 12:23:12 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-new-and-improved-website/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-new-and-improved-website/</link><title>Your new and improved website</title><description><h2>Welcome to your new, improved website</h2>
<p>We’ve listened to your feedback and are pleased to introduce some intuitive new features that we hope you will enjoy.</p>
<p>We’ve also completely refreshed the website’s look and feel. We’ve brought in a clean, modern design, simpler navigation and plenty of informative and inspirational content.</p>
<h2><img alt="" src="https://d1f5emshrfelk0.cloudfront.net/imagevault/publishedmedia/v5zx2ak8psror7uxo1fc/homepage-screenshot.jpg" /></h2>
<h2>What’s new?</h2>
<h3>Improved navigation and layout</h3>
<p>Clearer signposting along with the fresh new design guides you to everything you need to know about our products and services. Find what you’re looking for with ease, from overseas holiday bookings and insurance quotes to towing advice, training courses, member benefits and special offers.</p>
<p>We think you’ll love browsing the website from your tablet or smartphone, as more of the site is now optimised for viewing on mobile devices.</p>
<h3>Upgraded ‘Search &amp; Book’</h3>
<p>It’s now even easier to find the campsite you want, when you want, thanks to an upgraded Search &amp; Book tool. Simply specify a destination, dates of travel and the facilities you need and we will suggest the perfect location for you.</p>
<p>Your Club site booking details can still be accessed via <a title="My Profile" href="/link/ed6dcb4af5d342f6a48bcd68ea2276cd.aspx">My Profile</a>, including those made before the website was relaunched.</p>
<h3>Refreshed campsite pages</h3>
<p>It’s now easier to access the wealth of sites on our network. Our new, user friendly Caravan Club sites, CLs (Certificated Locations) and Overseas site pages now include an ‘at a glance’ area, start price and quick-click booking options, as well as more prominent visitor reviews.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/imagevault/publishedmedia/t8aizrx778s3gvng4oq5/Screen-shot-of-site-details-page.jpg" /></p>
<h3>Other new features</h3>
<ul>
<li>Club Together, our online community<br /><br />Contributors to our popular community can now upload photos and embed videos into discussions.&nbsp;Star ratings have been removed following feedback from our regular forum users, to keep posts relevant and in keeping with a leisure forum.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>What’s on - events search tool<br /><br />The new and all-encompassing ‘what’s on’ events search tool shows all Club-hosted and Centre rally events in one place. Search by date, location or event type to find something that tickles your fancy.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Caravan Insurance<br /><br />Our caravan, motorhome and overseas travel insurance pages have been enhanced. It’s also now much simpler to get a quote and buy your Caravan Insurance policy online.</li>
<li>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section<br /><br />We hope the new improved content and navigation means you find everything you’re looking for. Just in case you need a little extra help the new FAQ tool will guide you to lots of useful information in seconds.</li>
</ul>
<h3>We’d love to hear from you</h3>
<p>Following months of planning and development, we are proud of our new website and we hope you like it too. We have endeavoured to provide you with a smooth and informative online service, so you can make the most of your membership.&nbsp;But we won’t stop here - development to the Club’s website will continue, supported by the improvements we have made to our systems to help us stay up to date.</p>
<p>Have a browse today and find out what it has to offer - your next getaway is just a few clicks away!<br />If you have any questions or feedback, please contact our Web Contact Team on: <a href="mailto:webcontactteam@caravanclub.co.uk">webcontactteam@caravanclub.co.uk</a></p></description><pubDate>Tue, 13 Dec 2016 08:00:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/500000-pitch-nights-available-at-2016-season-prices/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/500000-pitch-nights-available-at-2016-season-prices/</link><title>500,000 pitch nights available at 2016 prices*</title><description><p>This year has been fantastic with so many members touring our UK sites network. This has given The Club the opportunity to freeze the price of 500,000 pitch nights across our UK sites network next year. Thank you to all our members for making 2016 such a fantastic success and we hope you enjoy touring some of our sites in 2017 at 2016 prices.</p>
<p><a title="2017 site fees" href="/link/4cff95e4ec534a22b568cf0918813036.aspx">View 2017 site fees</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Our award winning sites are regarded as some of the best in the UK, providing the highest level of facilities and standards that you expect and enjoy. Your site fees go towards sustaining the wonderful network of 160 Club sites, managed by 800 comprehensively trained staff, dedicated to providing you safe and happy holidays.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For more information on booking your 2017 holidays, visit our&nbsp;<a title="Book your 2017 holiday" href="/link/c2bf83342f9f445e8d8067f5bbcbfa0e.aspx" target="_blank">2017 site bookings</a>&nbsp;page.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Site redevelopments</strong></p>
<p>We’re continuously delivering a programme of redevelopment work to ensure sites are maintained to the highest standards.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In 2016, we invested £8.3 million in site improvements and redevelopments and in 2017 we plan to spend over £13 million. The Club also spends over £3.5 million each year on site repairs and maintenance. Recently completed site developments include Freshwater East in Pembrokeshire, White Water Park in Stockton-on-Tees and Ferry Meadows in Peterborough.</p>
<p>Some of the redevelopment work in 2016 includes:</p>
<ul>
<li>improved motorhome waste points and drainage connections for serviced pitches</li>
<li>new toilet and shower facilities</li>
<li>converting grass pitches into serviced or hard standing pitches</li>
<li>upgrading children’s play areas with new equipment, surfacing and fencing</li>
</ul>
<p>Visit the&nbsp;<a title="Site redevelopments page " href="/link/658626ee75a54c519382cb30f651875b.aspx" target="_blank">Site redevelopments</a>&nbsp;page for the latest news.</p>
<p><strong>* Terms and Conditions apply</strong></p>
<p>Price freeze applies to Club Sites only and excludes Affiliated Sites and Certificated Locations. Excludes Abbey Wood, Burrs Country Park and Meathop Fell between 4 Jan – 16 Mar 2017. Availability is on a first come, first served basis. Applies to prices of touring pitches in each season: low, medium and high. Please note that dates for seasons vary from year to year and like-for-like prices for a specific date may not be available.</p></description><pubDate>Mon, 21 Nov 2016 12:23:52 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/kendal-mountain-festival/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/kendal-mountain-festival/</link><title>Kendal Mountain Festival</title><description><p>Thousands of adventurers from across the globe will gather in the beautiful Lake District town of Kendal to celebrate all there is to love about the great outdoors.&nbsp; Inspirational guest speakers will be there, from industry experts, mountaineers and explorers to athletes, photographers and artists, all sharing their extraordinary stories and insights.</p>
<p>The festival hosts the first International Mountain Film Festival of its kind in the UK, showcasing over 70 short films and documentaries. Not only that, there’s also book and literature events, sports presentations, demonstrations, art exhibitions and workshops in various venues around the town.</p>
<p>Come down and visit The Caravan Club Airstream, as we’ll be showing Kendal Mountain Festival our support in the Village BaseCamp. You’ll find BaseCamp right in the heart of the action, in front of the Brewery Arts Centre. We’ll be there all weekend, located alongside top brand and equipment manufacturers, exhibitors and fellow sponsors so come and say hello!</p>
<p><strong>Where to stay</strong></p>
<p>Our very own&nbsp;<a href="/link/0afe30eeade2445289e67eee5b66bd54.aspx">Meathop Fell Caravan Club Site</a>&nbsp;is open for business only a 20 minutes’ drive from the festival.&nbsp; Situated in Grange-over-Sands and close to Brockhole, the National Park Visitor Centre, it’s a great location to explore the Lake District that surrounds Kendal.</p>
<p>As well as recommending our Club sites, Kendal Mountain Festival is also running its own campsite from £20 per person.</p>
<p>Full details about accommodation can be found on the&nbsp;<a title="Visit the website (opens in a new window)" href="http://www.mountainfest.co.uk/visitors" target="_blank">Kendal Mountain Festival website</a>.</p>
<p>We hope to see you there!</p>
<p style="position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; padding-top: 25px;"><span style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DKOBmrCKV6g?rel=0" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2016 14:39:34 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/first-place-for-the-caravan-club/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/first-place-for-the-caravan-club/</link><title>First place for The Caravan Club</title><description><p>The Caravan Club has come first under the ‘Travel Services &amp; Hospitality’ category, in the Top 50 Companies for Customer Service 2016 Awards.</p>
<p>We also picked up second place in the ‘Best Overall for Email’ section.</p>
<p>The Club’s 140 strong customer service team in East Grinstead, as well as over 400 wardens across our UK sites network have worked hard towards earning The Club this prestigious award.</p>
<p>“This award is testament to the strength of our customer service team, both at head office and across our site network. We pride ourselves on offering the best possible touring experience for our members, from the first enquiry right through to when they are on holiday.” Exclaimed Peter Martin Head of Operations, Membership Services, “This award win is incredibly well deserved by all involved and we will continue to develop, and evolve our customer service channels to meet the needs of our members.”</p>
<p>The Top 50, in partnership with GFK Mystery Shopping runs the only independent market research exercise that uses use real customers to log their phone calls, emails, web chat and social media interactions. Mystery shoppers (both actual and potential members) engaged with The Club’s Contact Centre and recorded what happened during their conversation.</p>
<p>At The Top 50 companies for Customer Service 2016 award ceremony, over 700 leaders in customer service arrived for an evening of industry celebration. The Club feels very privileged to have received this outstanding achievement.</p></description><pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2016 10:22:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/save-the-date/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/save-the-date/</link><title>Save the date</title><description><p>Club site pitches for next year’s touring season go on sale at 8am on Wednesday 7 December.</p>
<p>Find inspiration for your next holiday and start planning today, with 160 Club sites to choose from we have something for everyone.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Members can book Club site pitches for stays from March 2017 to early January 2018 – so don’t miss out!</p>
<p><strong>How do I book?</strong></p>
<p>All bookings will need to be made through the Easy Book facility which is incredibly straightforward. Members will be<br />asked a few questions about their stay and then prompted to book.</p>
<p>You can use Easy Book on your smartphone or tablet with the ability to view pricing upfront.</p>
<p>To streamline the booking process, you’ll be asked the following questions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Where do you want to go?</li>
<li>When are you going?</li>
<li>Who is going?</li>
</ul>
<p>Once complete, you’ll be a few short clicks away from confirming your booking.</p>
<p><strong>Please remember that the traditional ‘search by location and date’ method on The Club’s website and the UK Sites App will be unavailable from 6 December to no later than 10am on 8 December. &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>On 7 December, members will be given 10 minute slots to make each booking. Due to the high volume of bookings expected, we are required to limit the time spent making a reservation.</p>
<p>This ensures fairness for all members and keeps the system running smoothly. We recommend members have a list of preferred sites and dates to hand as well as alternatives.</p>
<p><strong>Step by step guide</strong></p>
<p>We’ve put together a list of important points that our members should be aware of.</p>
<ul>
<li>You can sign into ‘My Profile’ from 7am on 7 December</li>
<li>Bookings can be made from 8am on 7 December</li>
<li>From 7am on the day, users will see a simplified version of the home page, giving them the option to sign in, book a UK site (from 8am) or browse the website</li>
<li>Only one booking can be processed at a time – once you have made a reservation you will be taken back to the home page. As soon as another slot becomes available you can start to make another booking</li>
<li>Successful bookings will appear immediately within ‘My Profile’. You will receive an email confirming your booking within 24 hours</li>
<li>If available, you’ll be able to book site stays up to 3 January 2018</li>
<li>There will be no access to UK site bookings online, via the Contact Centre or the site network on Tuesday 6 December</li>
<li>There will be no access to UK site bookings via the UK Sites App on Tuesday 6 or Wednesday 7 December. Service on the UK Sites App should be returned no later than 10am on Thursday 8 December</li>
<li>You will not be able to book through the sites directly on 7 December</li>
<li>You will be able to make tent bookings from 11 January 2017</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Are there other ways I can book?</strong></p>
<p>The Contact Centre will be available on 7 December to make bookings. Please understand our team will answer calls as quickly as possible, but bear in mind our lines will be particularly busy, especially between 8am and noon.</p>
<p>Postal bookings will be accepted but won’t be processed until after 7 December.*</p>
<p><strong>Can I still book sites like normal?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Our year round sites remain open between now and 17 March 2017. With lots of availability across the UK, there’s never been a better time to book.</p>
<p><strong>What if I want to book an overseas holiday?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>International breaks are unaffected. Customers will be able to book an overseas site regardless. &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Will all sites be available to book?&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>We are continuously delivering a programme of redevelopment work to ensure our sites are maintained to the highest standards, which means some sites will be opening slightly later than normal. Below are the list of sites:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Black Knowl Caravan Club Site" href="/link/87aa3464055942de8ce2259c7ae0b18a.aspx" target="_blank">Black Knowl Caravan Club Site</a>&nbsp;- Opens 1 July 2017</li>
<li><a title="Castleton Caravan Club Site" href="/link/a41d75fe41434f7593d81c05c023d4f5.aspx" target="_blank">Castleton Caravan Club Site</a>&nbsp;- Opens 14 August 2017</li>
<li><a title="Hurn Lane Caravan Club Site" href="/link/3f7fd5e7f9564e66812670b5accf1725.aspx" target="_blank">Hurn Lane Caravan Club Site</a>&nbsp;- Opens 30 June 2017</li>
<li><a title="Knaresborough Caravan Club Site" href="/link/0dc7bc6cd58e422ea619e9b6418e621f.aspx" target="_blank">Knaresborough Caravan Club Site</a>&nbsp;- Opens August 2017</li>
<li><a title="Wharfedale Caravan Club Site" href="/link/698ca86f8765467b94e56513e69b62bd.aspx" target="_blank">Wharfedale Caravan Club Site</a>&nbsp;- Opens July 2017</li>
<li><a title="Hawes Caravan Club Site" href="/link/803e6f6bb80e460092fd81a5bafb01c0.aspx" target="_blank">Hawes Caravan Club Sites</a>&nbsp;- Open from 10 April 2017&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Please note:</strong>&nbsp;Hawes Caravan Club Site will be running at a reduced capacity from 10 April until 20 June. The toilet blocks will be closed and there will only be two service points available. The site will be unable to accommodate motorhomes during this time.</p>
<p>*Availability will be subject to online and telephone bookings that have already been made.</p>
<p><strong>Site fees in 2017</strong></p>
<p>The Club has released pricing for all UK sites in 2017. For more information, view&nbsp;<a title="2017 UK site fees" href="/link/4cff95e4ec534a22b568cf0918813036.aspx" target="_blank">2017 site fees</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Your 2017/18 Sites Directory and Handbook is coming soon</strong></p>
<p>The 2017/18 edition of The Club’s Sites Directory and Handbook will be with you soon, but a little later than usual. We have a number of exciting projects and developments which will impact upon the content of the handbook, so the latest edition will be with you in mid February.</p>
<p>Rest assured that all Club site and CL information is available and up to date on our website and&nbsp;<a title="UK Sites App" href="/link/dff2d91069064d6c978680d8319242f6.aspx" target="_blank">UK Sites App</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 08 Nov 2016 10:00:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-improved-uk-sites-app/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-improved-uk-sites-app/</link><title>The improved UK Sites App</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">Since the app was launched earlier this year we have been listening to your feedback, and your ideas and suggestions have helped us to develop the app further</span></p>
<p>We are pleased to report that your main concerns have been addressed in this latest update. Plus, we’ve also made some additional improvements which we’re confident you’ll like.</p>
<p>If you haven’t already, you can upgrade your UK Sites App today - available to download in the Google Play Store for Android or the App Store for iOs.</p>
<h3>What’s new?</h3>
<p><strong>Reduced app size</strong></p>
<p>The size of the app is significantly smaller than the previous version, taking up less storage space on your device. This is because the app now uses the maps that are already built into your phone or tablet. Before the update, the app came with Caravan Club maps that were installed on your device, making its overall size much larger.</p>
<p>By using the built-in maps (also known as ‘native’ maps), we have also been able to iron out some bugs that were being experienced with the previous version.</p>
<p><strong>Search function improvement</strong></p>
<p>When searching for sites using the app, a search radius is now shown when viewing the results on the map tab, making it clear exactly which area you’re searching in. If you need quick access to sites nearby, simply use the + and – buttons on the map tab to increase or decrease the radius distance and hit ‘done’. To refine your search result, you can still filter by your preferences such as site type, facilities and other criteria.</p>
<p><strong>Filter improvement</strong></p>
<p>As you browse through your search results, you’ll notice on the map tab a filter button has been added. This will allow you to adjust your search results without the need to return to the initial search screen.</p>
<p><strong>Bug fixes</strong></p>
<p>General improvements and adjustments have been made, particularly focussing on issues that were intermittently preventing search results from displaying correctly.</p>
<h3>Available now</h3>
<p>The Caravan Club UK Sites App is available to download for FREE via the Android Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. Use it to browse our network of Club Sites, Affiliated Sites and CLs (Certificated Locations) across the United Kingdom.</p>
<p><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=theCaravanClub.TheCaravanClub&amp;hl=en_GB" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://d1f5emshrfelk0.cloudfront.net/imagevault/publishedmedia/mipckt6w94ylho81wxto/Download-Google-Play.jpg" /></a>&nbsp;<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/developer/caravan-club/id985183742" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://d1f5emshrfelk0.cloudfront.net/imagevault/publishedmedia/y2fwadxytg0eo9xah499/Download-Apple-store.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>By making the app easier to use and smaller in size, it’s now even faster to search for sites in specific locations while you’re on the move. We’ve worked hard to refine the app and fix some minor defects and we hope that you enjoy what the improved app has to offer.</p>
<p>Don’t forget, anyone can use the UK Sites App to access information about our sites. If you are a Club member, you can book sites via the app as well - this is one of the many member benefits The Club has to offer.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2016 13:31:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/book-your-2017-european-summer-break/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/book-your-2017-european-summer-break/</link><title>Book your 2017 trip to Europe</title><description><p><strong>For 2017, we're bringing you even more choice! We've expanded our European network to include new sites near the Italian Lakes, along Portugal's golden coastline, in France's wine region and Switzerland's peaceful countryside - to name just a few!</strong></p>
<p>The great news is you can save 10% when you book before December 2016 on a selection of these new sites.</p>
<p>The new Venture Abroad brochure will be available from 11 October. If you’ve been overseas with the Club in the last two years, you’ll automatically receive a brochure in the post. Or, you can call us on <strong>01342 316101</strong> to order your copy.</p>
<h3><strong>Pick your European summer break</strong></h3>
<h3><strong>Italy</strong></h3>
<p><strong><a title="Rio Vantone" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/italy/camping-rio-vantone">Rio Vantone </a>(Y08): </strong>This sitesits on the banks of Lake Idro, west of Lake Garda. The 190-pitch site has beautiful views as well as a swimming pool, restaurant and bar. There’s windsurfing to try and plenty of walks, too.</p>
<p><strong><a title="Parco delle Piscine" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/italy/camping-parco-delle-piscine">Parco delle Piscine</a> (pictured) (Y17): </strong>This is the perfect base for a visit to Tuscany and nearby Sarteano. The pitches are large and private and there are hiking and cycling trails to keep you busy.</p>
<h3><strong>France</strong></h3>
<p><strong><a title="Chateau de Drancourt " href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/picardy-ile-de-france/camping-domaine-de-drancourt">Château de Drancourt</a> (P06): </strong>This family-friendly site has plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Take a dip in the pool, try the games room or a round of mini-golf.</p>
<p><strong><a title="Camping La Petite Camargue" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/languedoc-roussillon/camping-la-petite-camargue">La Petite Camargue</a> (C04): </strong>You and your family will love the swimming pool and Jacuzzi, but if you prefer the seaside, Grau du Roi and Boucanet beach are nearby. There’s also horse riding, a mini animal park, scuba diving and facilities for dogs are being added in 2017.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><a title="Camping Les Saules" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/centre/camping-les-saules">Les Saules</a> (L01): </strong>Discover theChâteaux of the Loire from this popular family-run site. There are cycling routes to explore, a swimming pool to take a dip in and you can even try pond fishing! A bus runs to Blois and Chambord where there is a golf course and zoo to visit.</p>
<p><strong><a title="Saint-Emilion" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/aquitaine/camping-saint-emilion">Camping Saint Emilion</a> (D08): </strong>Set in the Bordeaux wine region, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep everyone busy at this site.Canoe on the Dordogne River, go fishing or try some local wine before relaxing in the heated pool.</p>
<p><strong><a title="Indigo Bourg St Maurice" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/rhone-alpes/camping-indigo-bourg-st-maurice">Indigo Bourg St Maurice</a> (pictured) (M15): </strong>Explore Savoie and the surrounding regions from this site. Chamonix and Annecy are nearby and the site is well-placed for Geneva and Turin. Relax in the swimming pool and restaurant or try hiking.</p>
<h3><strong>Germany</strong></h3>
<p><strong><a title="Ferienpark Havelberge " href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/germany/ferienpark-havelberge/">Ferienpark Havelberge</a></strong> <strong>(G11): </strong>This site is surrounded by woodland and has amazing views of Mecklenburg Lake. Outdoor activities are plentiful, you can try canoeing, windsurfing, archery and even a high ropes course. After the fun, you can relax in the sauna, grab a bite in the restaurant, or drive to Berlin and explore.</p>
<h3><strong>Portugal</strong></h3>
<p><strong><a title="Ria Formosa " href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/portugal/camping-ria-formosa">Ria Formosa</a> (E17): </strong>This 350-pitch site is close to the Ria Formosa Natural Park. There’s a swimming pool, restaurant and mini-golf on site. Nearby, you have a beautiful white sandy beach and the big towns of Faro and Albufeira.</p>
<h3><strong>Switzerland</strong></h3>
<p><strong><a title="Vitznau" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/switzerland/camping-vitznau">Vitznau</a> (S05): </strong>Overlooking Lake Lucerne, this peaceful campsite has a swimming pool and paddling pool for little ones. The Titlis Glacier and the serene lake are just five minutes from the site.</p>
<h3><strong>10% off on selected sites</strong></h3>
<p>Some sites book up fast, so get in touch today and book your summer 2017 break. Don’t forget, you can save 10% when you book these sites before 31 December:</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Saint-Emilion " href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/aquitaine/camping-saint-emilion">Saint-Emilion</a> (D08)</li>
<li><a title="Camping Domaine de Drancourt" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/picardy-ile-de-france/camping-domaine-de-drancourt">Château de Drancourt</a> (P06)</li>
<li><a title="Camping Les Saules" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/centre/camping-les-saules">Les Saules</a> (L01)</li>
<li><a title="Camping La Petite Camargue" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/languedoc-roussillon/camping-la-petite-camargue">La Petite Camargue</a> (C04)</li>
<li><a title="Château La Forêt" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/sites/france/pays-de-la-loire/camping-ch%C3%A2teau-la-for%C3%AAt">Château La Forêt</a> (A44)</li>
</ul>
<div><a class="JoinButton" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/summer-holidays">BOOK online </a></div>
<p>Bookings open on 11 October – simply call us on <strong>01342 316101</strong> or <a title="Venture Abroad" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/overseas-holidays/summer-holidays">book online</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2016 15:38:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/and-the-survey-says/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/and-the-survey-says/</link><title>And the survey says</title><description><p>We asked you to share your thoughts on the usability, quality and reliability of your caravans and motorhomes as part of our Leisure Vehicle Survey.</p>
<p>Almost 40,000 of you took part – thank you for taking the time to participate and share your experiences with us. Your feedback will help us to raise standards within the industry; a cause The Caravan Club is passionate about.</p>
<p>The results are in! And we’re thrilled to share them with you. We hope these insights will help to guide you to find the right caravan, motorhome or campervan when you’re next considering a leisure vehicle purchase.</p>
<p class="button-green"><a title="Leisure vehicle survey report" href="/link/08cb287c8ad54ba1a69a7cfb20f2d476.aspx" target="_blank">Read the report</a></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2016 15:10:10 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/playweek-go-ape-winners-revealed/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/playweek-go-ape-winners-revealed/</link><title>Playweek Go Ape winners revealed</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">Congratulations Team IncyKids from Incleboro Fields!</span></p>
<p>25 Club sites hosted a Go Ape-inspired activity course competition and the little monkeys on-site competed to win a day out at a Go Ape forest adventure.</p>
<p>The 25 sites went head-to-head to see who could construct the best activity course and Team IncyKids from <a title="Incleboro Fields Caravan Club Site" href="/link/033dea2b06804108a7f0a5c76f13b69c.aspx">Incleboro Fields Caravan Club Site</a> took home first prize. We hope you enjoy your tree top adventure day out!</p>
<p>The runners up came from <a title="York Beechwood Grange Caravan Club Site" href="/link/cc17850b722248cfbfdb3364aff64019.aspx">York Beechwood Grange Caravan Club Site</a> and will recieve a fun-filled Go Ape goodie bag.</p>
<h3>Monkeying around</h3>
<p>We held our first ever Tourer Explorer Playweek in August and it got a big thumbs-up from families.</p>
<p>Most of the Tourer Explorer sites held a day of fun and games between 3 and 10 August in support of <a title="National Play Day" href="http://www.playday.org.uk/" target="_blank">National Play Day</a>, a celebration of children’s right to play, where activities ranged from the slowest bike race and activity courses to pond-dipping and den building.</p>
<h3>Save at Go Ape</h3>
<p>Go Ape said: “We have been astounded by the level of creativity in the children’s’ designs, some of which would rival the Chief Gorilla’s himself. The children have worked together to produce some tree-mendous courses and showed off how resourceful they could be with their materials.”</p>
<p>As a member of The Caravan Club, you can swing by Go Ape and save 10% on a Tree Top Adventure. <a title="Go Ape member offer" href="/link/a5ee408486534dc8a2a061b2c8ffd8b3.aspx">Find out more</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 13 Sep 2016 11:09:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/relax-on-an-isle-of-wight-camping-trip-this-september/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/relax-on-an-isle-of-wight-camping-trip-this-september/</link><title>Relax on an Isle of Wight camping trip this September</title><description><p>Take a tent, take your ‘van and pitch up in the natural wilderness. Or if that’s not your thing, a stay at a campsite with some home comforts is a great alternative.</p>
<h3>Excellent value</h3>
<p>When it comes to Isle of Wight Caravan Parks, Southland Caravan Club Site is a great choice. Set in the beautiful Arreton Valley on the eastern side of the island, the site is just 15 minutes drive from the beach.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">Both members and non-members can camp at Southland and prices start at just £18.20 per night (for a pitch and two adults). Visitors also have full access to the toilet and shower block and the play area is sure to keep the kids entertained.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">Southland also has some great ‘van pitch offers to help make your money go that little bit further. From September 4 to 30, visitors bringing their 'van can pitch for just £2 a night. If you’re travelling without a car, we also have exclusive Wightlink short break and foot passenger offers.</span></p>
<h3>Isle of Wight attractions</h3>
<p>Keep the family busy with a choice of over 120 attractions, including:</p>
<p>the Needles theme park, with its exciting chair lift ride. The views are stunning, but you’ll need a head for heights!<br />the historical summer home of Queen Victoria; Osborne House.<br />the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary in Niton, where you can meet the four-legged residents face-to-face<br />red squirrel-spotting at Alverstone Mead. They come out for feeding early in the morning and late afternoon - if you bring them some peanuts, they'll put on a real show.</p>
<p>Insider tip – If you enjoy nature-spotting or photography, head for the bird hide at Alverstone Mead. It’s just ten minutes from our Southland site.</p>
<h3>Dog-friendly beaches on the Isle of Wight&nbsp;</h3>
<p>The Isle of Wight is proud to be one of the most dog-friendly places in the UK, with dozens of dog-friendly beaches, pubs and hotels on the island.</p>
<p>Whether your four-legged friend likes a bit of sand under their paws, or prefers rock pools to rummage in, you can’t throw a stick on the island without hitting a dog-friendly beach.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">These sites are perfect for a long walk:</span></p>
<ul>
<li>Brook Bay</li>
<li>Cowes</li>
<li>Freshwater Bay</li>
<li>Gurnard</li>
<li>Ryde Beach</li>
<li>Sandown Beach (just 15 minutes from Southland)</li>
<li>Shanklin Beach</li>
<li>Totland Bay</li>
</ul>
<p>As Club member, Stusky, recently said: "The Isle of Wight is one of the best holiday destinations in the UK - if you haven't been for a while - go again."</p>
<p>Few memories will rival the ones you make on an Isle of Wight family holiday.</p>
<h3>Book your camping trip</h3>
<p>Southland is open for camping right up until 30 September and prices start from just £18.20 per night (two adults and a pitch).</p>
<p class="button-green"><a title="Book now" href="/link/7bcecf4b15ba4566b22f0b212f2a651e.aspx">BOOK ONLINE</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 08 Sep 2016 11:20:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/blackshaw-moor-welcomes-new-secretary-of-state/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/blackshaw-moor-welcomes-new-secretary-of-state/</link><title>Blackshaw Moor welcomes new Secretary of State</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The Rt Hon Karen Bradley is MP for Staffordshire Moorland and accepted an invitation from Club Director General, Nick Lomas to visit the site.</span></p>
<p>Mrs Bradley and her two sons enjoyed a tour with Nick and the site wardens. They also chatted to members enjoying the Peak District Sunshine.</p>
<p>Mr Lomas said:</p>
<p>“We have a long-running programme of engaging with politicians at all levels, so they gain an understanding of the value that touring caravanning brings to a local area.</p>
<p>“To have the Secretary of State responsible for tourism taking time out of her busy schedule was a huge honour for us, and we all enjoyed meeting her.</p>
<p>“She seemed very impressed by the site and its facilities, and I’m sure she went away with a much better understanding of the importance of our sector to the rural economy and how The Club and members contribute to that.”</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 26 Aug 2016 12:48:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/isle-of-wight-bargain-breaks/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/isle-of-wight-bargain-breaks/</link><title>Great value Isle of Wight trips</title><description><h3>Exclusive short break from £149*</h3>
<p>Book a <strong>four-night break</strong> at Southland Caravan Club Site for stays departing on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between 6 September and 27 October 2016 (excluding 8 to 11 September) and travel with Wightlink from as little as £149*.</p>
<p>Book this offer by calling our contact centre on 01342 488 716.</p>
<h3>Foot passenger offer</h3>
<p>Foot passengers can travel from Lymington to Yarmouth, Portsmouth to Fishbourne and Portsmouth to Ryde anytime up until 31 October (excluding 8 to 12 September) and enjoy excellent value.</p>
<p>Adult: £8<br />Children: £4<br />Seniors: £6<br />Book via the Wightlink call centre on 03339 997 333.</p>
<h3>Southland Caravan Club site</h3>
<p>Our&nbsp;<a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Southland Caravan Club Site" href="/link/7bcecf4b15ba4566b22f0b212f2a651e.aspx">Southland Caravan Club Site</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">&nbsp;is near Newchurch on the eastern side of the island in the beautiful Arreton Valley.</span></p>
<p>The site has a large playground making it great for kids and the trees and shrubs around the site give it a feeling of privacy. Southland is also convenient for travelling to all parts of the island and is a great base for exploring.</p>
<h3>Things to do this autumn</h3>
<p>There are over 120 attractions and places of interest to visit on the island. Half of it is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it a walker’s paradise.</p>
<p>This 21 to 23 October is the Isle of Wight&nbsp;<a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Visit Isle of Wight (opens in new window)" href="http://www.visitisleofwight.co.uk/whats-on/isle-of-wight-autumn-walking-festival-2016-p971681" target="_blank">Autumn Walking Festival</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">. See the island change from green to gold with a choice of over 60 guided walks, with some suitable for children too! There's even a speed-dating walk.</span></p>
<p>If you prefer to get lost in a good book, the Isle of Wight&nbsp;<a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Visit Isle of Wight (opens in new window)" href="http://isleofwightliteraryfestival.com/" target="_blank">Literature Festival</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">&nbsp;is from 13 to 16 October 2016. This year's event will mainly focus on the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death with a series of events with authors, journalists and historians.</span></p>
<h3>Book your break</h3>
<p>Call our contact centre and book your short break to&nbsp;<a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Southland Caravan Club Site" href="/link/7bcecf4b15ba4566b22f0b212f2a651e.aspx">Southland Caravan Club Site</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">&nbsp;today on 01342 488 716 and start planning your autumn escape.</span></p>
<p>*T&amp;Cs can be found on our&nbsp;<a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Wightlink" href="/link/acd5df889f544dceabaf946ccb5b0935.aspx">Wightlink</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">&nbsp;page.</span></p></description><pubDate>Mon, 15 Aug 2016 16:24:51 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/Win-the-New-Zealand-tour-of-a-lifetime-on-Facebook/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/Win-the-New-Zealand-tour-of-a-lifetime-on-Facebook/</link><title>Win the New Zealand tour of a lifetime on Facebook</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Facebook is the latest addition to our social family; we're already established on YouTube and more recently Twitter and Instagram.&nbsp;Like us on Facebook for up-to-the-minute news, holiday inspiration, events, activities and special offers.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2>Win the holiday of a lifetime</h2>
<p>You and a friend could be the lucky winner of our&nbsp;<a title="New Zealand Explorer Motorhome Tour" href="/link/34a06258fb5644949bb57e35a430a76a.aspx">New Zealand Explorer guided motorhome tour</a>. Travelling across New Zealand in a&nbsp;<strong>luxury motorhome</strong>, you'll spend plenty of time visiting extraordinary natural wonders, stunning national parks and picture perfect sandy bays.</p>
<p>Included in your holiday:</p>
<ul>
<li>Return flights to New Zealand from London Heathrow</li>
<li>Full motorhome hire with a premium insurance pack and unlimited mileage</li>
<li>Pre-booked caravan sites</li>
<li>An experienced tour guide for every step of the journey</li>
<li>And much more!</li>
</ul>
<p>If you are not a member, one year’s fully paid membership will be included in the prize.</p>
<h2>Visit and comment to enter</h2>
<p>Simply, visit our official Facebook page and comment with hashtag <strong>#NZwishyouwerehere</strong> on our <strong>New Zealand Video</strong>.</p>
<p>The trip starts on 9 October so please get back to us as soon as possible if you’re the lucky winner. (The winner will be selected at random after the closing date of 29 August). Please refer to full Ts&amp;Cs below.</p>
<p class="button-green"><a title="Visit The Caravan Club Facebook page" href="https://www.facebook.com/thecaravanclubuk/" target="_blank">Find us on Facebook</a></p>
<p><strong>Be a part of the Caravan Club social community</strong></p>
<p>Find us on:&nbsp;<a title="Visit The Caravan Club Facebook page (opens in a new window)" href="https://www.facebook.com/thecaravanclubuk/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a title="Visit The Caravan Club Twitter page (opens in a new window)" href="https://www.twitter.com/thecaravanclub/" target="_blank">Twitter&nbsp;</a>|&nbsp;<a title="Visit The Caravan Club Instagram page (opens in a new window)" href="https://www.instagram.com/thecaravanclub/" target="_blank">Instagram</a></p>
<p>And don't forget, if you haven't already, you can still register to use our very own '<a title="Club Together" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/community">Club Together</a>', the UK's largest online caravanning forum.</p>
<hr />
<h3>Terms and conditions - Facebook Launch New Zealand competition</h3>
<p>This competition is open to residents of the UK, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man aged 18 years or over, except employees of The Caravan Club, their families, agents or anyone else professionally associated with the competition.</p>
<p>Entry is open to both members and non-members of The Caravan Club (hereby referred to as the Promoter). The tour is open to Members only. If the winner is not currently a member of The Caravan Club, one year’s membership will be included in the prize.</p>
<p>Entries must be made between 12.01am on Monday 15 August and 23.59 on Monday 29 August 2016.</p>
<p>Details of how to enter form part of the terms and conditions. It is a condition of entry that all rules are accepted as final and that the participant agrees to abide by these rules. The decision of the Promoter is final and no correspondence will be entered into.</p>
<p>To submit an entry to the competition participants must comment on The Caravan Club’s #NZwishyouwerehere competition Facebook video post, as published facebook.com/TheCaravanClubUK with the hashtag #NZwishyouwerehere</p>
<p>The Promoter will undertake a random draw from all entries received by the closing date under independent supervision and within 14 days of the closing date. This selection shall be final; there is no right of appeal or discussion.</p>
<p>The winner will be contacted by the Promoter on social media in response to the comment posted as entry to the competition. Should the Promoter be unable to contact a winner, if the winner does not reply within 7 days, or is unable to comply with these terms and conditions, the Promoter reserves the right to award that prize to an alternative winner, drawn in accordance with these terms and conditions. No correspondence relating to the competition will be entered into.</p>
<p>The winner of the competition will be announced in the October edition of The Caravan Club printed and digital magazine.</p>
<p><strong>The winner and travel companion must be available to travel on 9 October 2016 returning to the UK on 15 November 2016.</strong></p>
<p><strong>There is no cash alternative.</strong> <strong>Prize dates are non-transferable.</strong></p>
<p>If the winner cannot attend the promoter may consider transference of the prize to a friend or family member who is available to travel on the dates specified providing due notice is given for travel arrangements and alterations. Transferance of the prize is at the discretion of the Promoter. The decision of the promoter is final and no correspondence will be entered into.</p>
<p>Entry is restricted to one entry per person for the duration of the competition.</p>
<p>The winner is responsible for obtaining the Visas for both people in the party.</p>
<p>The winner and travel companion must have a minimum of 6 months on a valid passport.</p>
<p>By entering the competition the winner agrees to participate in reasonable publicity for The Caravan Club and supply editorial content, photos and videos which may be used for promotional use by the Promoter.</p>
<p>By taking part in this competition all participants will be deemed to have accepted and be bound by all terms and conditions.</p>
<p><strong>Not included in the prize are the following:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Travel Insurance</li>
<li>Items of a personal nature eg. Groceries, wine, telephone etc.</li>
<li>Motorhome fuel and gas bottle refills.</li>
<li>Meals, entrance fees &amp; optional site seeing activities (other than those stated in the itinerary).</li>
<li>Items listed in the itinerary under the ‘Not to be missed’ section. These are suggested additional extras.</li>
</ul>
<p>The Promoter reserves the right at any time to modify or discontinue this prize draw with or without prior notice due to reasons outside its reasonable control. The decision of the Promoter in all matters under its control is final and binding and no correspondence will be entered into.</p>
<p>The Promoter reserves the right to provide alternative prizes of equal or greater value to those prizes listed above in the event the original prize(s) offered is no longer available for reasons outside The Caravan Club’s reasonable control. In all cases the Promoter’s decision is final.</p>
<p>The winner’s first name(s) may be published on The Caravan Club’s website or you can write to: The Caravan Club, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 1UA naming this specific prize draw and including a stamped self-addressed envelope for a list of winners.</p>
<p>By entering this prize draw you agree that your personal details may be stored and otherwise processed by The Caravan Club for the purposes of administering the prize draw and in the event of being the winner of this prize draw for publicity purposes. Any such publicity will consist of publication of the winners’ names and photographs in The Caravan Club members’ magazine, on The Caravan Club’s website and social media channels.</p>
<p>You should read The Caravan Club’s <a title="The Caravan Club's privacy policy" href="/link/13471d1c50da4e67809d6f9ef5f996ee.aspx">privacy policy</a> to understand how we may use your data.</p>
<p>Entry into the competition implies acceptance of these terms and conditions as final and binding</p>
<p><strong>Promoter</strong>: The Caravan Club, East Grinstead House, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 1UA</p></description><pubDate>Mon, 15 Aug 2016 12:31:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/club-is-nominated-for-three-family-traveller-awards/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/club-is-nominated-for-three-family-traveller-awards/</link><title>Club is nominated for three Family Traveller Awards</title><description><p>We're honoured to be up for nomination in the following categories:</p>
<ul>
<li>Best UK Accommodation for Families</li>
<li>Best Multi-generational Family Holiday Provider</li>
<li>Best Family Festival for&nbsp;<a title="The Big Little Tent Festival" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/news-and-events/events/big-little-tent-festival">The Big Little Tent Festival</a>&nbsp;(BLTF)</li>
</ul>
<p>The Club has lots of great&nbsp;<a title="Family Holidays " href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/uk-holidays/families">family inspiration</a>&nbsp;to help make the summer holiday the best it can be. From&nbsp;<a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Family Friendly Sites" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/uk-holidays/families/family-sites">family friendly sites</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">&nbsp;to great ideas for days out and&nbsp;</span><a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Tourer Explorer" href="http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/uk-holidays/families/tourer-explorer">Tourer Explorer</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">, there’s something for everyone.</span></p>
<h3>The Big Little Tent Festival</h3>
<p>BLTF is a family camping event with a difference. It promises all the fun of a family camping adventure in the wilderness, in the convenience of your own back garden! Just pitch your tent, invite your friends and family, fire up the barbecue and have fun together making memories this summer.</p>
<p><a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Family Traveller (opens in new window)" href="https://familytraveller.com/" target="_blank">Family Traveller</a>&nbsp;is indispensable for anyone travelling with babies, children and teenagers. They provide parents with a one-stop location to plan their family holidays.</p>
<p>The judges for the awards are TV and radio presenter Mariella Frostrup, BBC's go-to travel documentary film maker Simon Reeve; travel editor at The Times Jane Knight, travel and lifestyle director of Elle Magazine, Sue Ward Davies; editor of Family Traveller, Jane Anderson, and the readers of Family Traveller.</p>
<p>If you'd like to vote for us, you can do so on the&nbsp;<a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Family Traveller Awards (opens in new window)" href="https://familytraveller.com/family-traveller-awards/awards-categories/" target="_blank">Family Traveller website</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">. Voting closes on 20 September.</span></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 05 Aug 2016 14:52:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/win-with-go-ape-during-playweek/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/win-with-go-ape-during-playweek/</link><title>Win with Go Ape during Playweek</title><description><p>Rally your troops for a fun day of building the best activity course for a chance to WIN a day out at the family adventure park, Go Ape.<br /> <br />The Go Ape activity challenge will be held at selected <a title="Tourer Explorer Club sites" href="/link/bee0bace07c04e708176b1d9ca5a5789.aspx">Tourer Explorer Club sites</a> as part of the Club’s <a title="Playweek events" href="/link/153ba34477774cb48edd52b4107e8a83.aspx">Playweek events</a> held between 3 to 10 August 2016.<br /> <br />Your kids can get creative and use natural materials found around the site to build their Go Ape inspired course.</p>
<h2>Win a day out at Go Ape</h2>
<p>One team will be the overall winner of all the sites taking part. Each member of the winning team will win a day out at the number one forest adventure park (plus an extra ticket for an adult to accompany them).<br /> <br />Playweek is completely free of charge and is open to all children. Most of our 66 Tourer Explorer sites are getting involved with either Go Ape or RSPB and some are hosting their own events.<br /> <br />Find out more about <a title="Playweek events" href="/link/153ba34477774cb48edd52b4107e8a83.aspx">Playweek </a>and get details on how to get involved.</p>
<h2>Did you know?</h2>
<p>As a member of the Caravan Club you have access to over 50 member offers and fantastic savings on over 400 attractions including Go Ape.<br /> <br />Find out more about member offers.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Aug 2016 10:33:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/urgent-notification-phishing-scam-sms/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/urgent-notification-phishing-scam-sms/</link><title>Urgent notification phishing scam SMS</title><description><p>It asks the addressee to click through a link to a website purporting to be The Club’s website.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Please be advised that this SMS message has <strong>not come from The Club</strong>; its title is: 'Important changes in The Caravan Club Terms of Use ! READ THESE NEW TERMS OF USE HERE: http://caravansclubs.co.uk/Terms !'.</p>
<p>We strongly advise that you NOT to open this SMS and immediately delete the SMS message.<br /> <br />The link on the SMS goes through to a website page that asks members to login. This website page is NOT The Club website. We believe that this is a phishing SMS message and that it has been sent to a wide audience, not specifically to Club members, but given the number of people it will have gone out to, sadly some will be Club members.</p>
<h2>What to do if you have opened the message</h2>
<p>Any member that has already responded to the SMS message and provided their registration details are asked to contact the Contact Centre on<strong> 01342 318 813</strong>. <br /> <br />If your email address and password are the same for any other account, we strongly recommend that you change your password urgently.<br /> <br />We can confirm that the integrity of the member database has not been compromised and member’s details remain secure. We are working with the appropriate internet authorities to take the rogue website down.<br /> <br />If you have any further queries please contact The Club on the number above.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 02 Aug 2016 10:00:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/upgrade-to-the-club-systems/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/upgrade-to-the-club-systems/</link><title>Upgrade to The Club systems</title><description><h3>Advance notice to our members</h3>
<p>The Club’s computer systems are about to undergo some essential and important changes. This will mean that sections of our website will be unavailable between 29 to 31 July.</p>
<h3>What will be affected?</h3>
<p>From 5.30pm on Friday 29 July until midnight on Sunday 31 July, website transactions won’t be available, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Login to ‘My Profile’ and registered website use</li>
<li>All bookings - UK and overseas sites, ferries, events, training courses</li>
<li>Online join and membership renewal</li>
<li>Access to CLs (Certificated Locations)</li>
<li>Club Together (our online community)</li>
<li>Insurance quote and/or purchase</li>
<li>Purchasing Club Shop products</li>
<li>Outfit matching services</li>
</ul>
<p>The Caravan Club <strong>Sites Booking App</strong> and the <strong>Magazine App</strong> will also be unavailable whilst our systems are upgraded.</p>
<p>If during the weekend of 29 to 31 July you are travelling to a site, don’t forget to bring your Sites Directory and Handbook with you for directions and site contact information.</p>
<h3>Why is this happening?</h3>
<p>The Caravan Club is working on a vital programme to upgrade its IT assets. As part of this, our membership systems are being moved to a modern version of software which will help to futureproof our systems and increase stability. In order for the upgrade to take place The Club needs to shut down the membership database, for a short period, which will affect most of our online services.</p>
<p>As we are sure you will understand, the decision regarding the timing of when the work should take place was not taken lightly, it was highly considered by all areas of The Club. Although the timing will not suit everyone, it is the optimum time to complete this essential maintenance.</p>
<p>We appreciate this will have a significant impact for members and site staff using the website and app. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this might cause during this short timeframe, we will resume services on Sunday as smoothly and swiftly as possible.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 26 Jul 2016 15:57:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/win-a-holiday-to-new-zealand/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/win-a-holiday-to-new-zealand/</link><title>New Zealand Explorer tour prize</title><description><p>To celebrate a successful first year of our new worldwide tours programme, we’re offering one lucky member and their spouse or a friend, the chance to join our <a title="New Zealand Explorer escorted motorhome tour" href="/link/34a06258fb5644949bb57e35a430a76a.aspx">New Zealand Explorer escorted motorhome tour</a> which departs on 9 October 2016.</p>
<h3>A once in a lifetime tour</h3>
<p>This 38-day tour takes in the highlights of both north and south island, including Auckland, Wellington, Milford Sound and Mt Cook National Park, fully immersing you in the country’s scenery and culture.</p>
<p>In addition, you’ll get to write an article about the trip which we’ll feature in our monthly magazine. You'll also have the chance to blog and share your holiday snaps throughout the journey.</p>
<h3>Enter now for a chance to win!</h3>
<p>To enter, simply tell us in 500 words or less why you are the right person to go on this trip. Whether it’s your experience as a writer, your passion for travel or something more unusual, let us know why we should send you. Please also include links to your social profiles, if you have them.</p>
<p>Please note, you and your chosen travel companion must be able to travel on the October tour, which departs 9 October and arrives back in the UK on 15 November 2016.</p>
<p>The competition runs from 25 July to 10 August. Please email your entries to: <a href="mailto:toursenquiries@caravanclub.co.uk">toursenquiries@caravanclub.co.uk</a></p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<hr />
<h3>Terms and conditions</h3>
<ul>
<li>No entries will be accepted after 10 August.</li>
<li>The winner will be chosen at the judges’ sole discretion, and no discussion will be entered into.</li>
<li>The winner and their companion must be able to travel on the 9 October 2016 departure, returning to the UK on 15 November 2016.</li>
<li>By entering, you agree to write an article for the Club magazine upon your return, and produce blogs to be posted on Club Together during the tour, plus take photos of your trip to be used to promote the tour.</li>
<li>You also agree that the Caravan Club may use any images you supply for promotional material.</li>
<li>No cash alternative will be given for this prize.</li>
<li>No employees of the Caravan Club or its subsidiary businesses may enter.</li>
</ul></description><pubDate>Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:31:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/eurotunnel-folkestone-and-calais-security-update/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/eurotunnel-folkestone-and-calais-security-update/</link><title>Eurotunnel Folkestone and Calais security update</title><description><p>Eurotunnel invited The Caravan Club for a behind-the-scenes tour of its terminals in Folkestone and Calais to show us, and you, the measures that have been introduced to improve security.</p>
<p>In the light of high-profile stories in the national press recently about the migrant crisis in Calais, some Club members have voiced concerns about travelling with their caravans or motorhomes to France.</p>
<p>During our visit, they explained to us that migrants were targeting freight and commercial vehicles and were confident that no migrants had been found hiding in passenger cars, motorhomes or caravans. However, the disruption to services has had an impact on both their tourist and commercial freight customers.</p>
<p>In an attempt to discourage migrants from travelling to its Calais terminal in the first place, Eurotunnel has distributed leaflets to the migrant camps outlining the risks associated with their often dangerous attempts to travel illegally to the UK.</p>
<p>A number of measures have also been introduced, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Clearing forestation and digging moats which are designed to make it more difficult for people to hide near the terminal.</li>
<li>Secure parking areas have been created to reduce the traffic queueing back to the motorway at peak times – and, therefore, reduce the opportunities for migrants to attempt to board the vehicles.</li>
<li>A 38km of four-metre high security fencing (pictured) has been installed around the perimeter of its Calais site.</li>
<li>Daily meetings are held to assess the situation.</li>
<li>An additional 250 security staff has been recruited – mobile French police are on duty too.</li>
</ul>
<p>These measures are in addition to the existing infrared detectors, 400 CCTV cameras and thermal detection devices on site.</p>
<p>Additionally, new scanners for cars and trucks have been installed in France and the UK. These are to help detect anyone hidden from view and a certain percentage of cars and trucks are chosen for a full scan each day.</p></description><pubDate>Mon, 25 Jul 2016 10:51:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/celebrate-150-years-of-beatrix-potter/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/celebrate-150-years-of-beatrix-potter/</link><title>Celebrate 150 years of Beatrix Potter</title><description><p>The Lake District and its wildlife were the inspiration for Potter's enchanting children's stories about animals.<br /><br />Take a trip to Cumbria this summer and see the spiritual home of her world famous books.</p>
<h2>Hill Top Cottage, Cumbria</h2>
<p>Hill Top Cottage inspired The Tale of Two Bad Mice and is a 17th-century farm house in the heart of the Lake District. Visitors can walk around the cottage and see the doll’s house behind the famous story.</p>
<p>On 28 July (the day of Potter's birthday) the cottage will be hosting a party where families can celebrate with activities and music. <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Coniston Park Coppice Caravan Club site</a> is nearby and is a perfect base for your visit. The site has an adventure playground that’s perfect for keeping the kids busy while you relax. Coniston Park is 63 acres of beautiful National Trust Woodland that Beatrix herself is credited as reserving.</p>
<h2>Beatrix Potter Gallery in Hawkshead</h2>
<p>Visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery in Hawkshead and be transported into her world at the new ‘Realism and Romance’ exhibition. The exhibit explores the author’s love of nature. Visitors can also join a ‘Storytelling Saturday’ session and hear her famous stories.</p>
<p><a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Meathop Fell Caravan Club site</a> is set in the south of the stunningly beautiful Lake District making it a perfect setting to immerse yourself in all things Potter.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 15 Jul 2016 11:44:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/experience-the-tour-de-france/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/experience-the-tour-de-france/</link><title>Experience the Tour de France</title><description><h3>Take in the Tour de France</h3>
<p>Join in and experience the excitement of being race-side at one of Europe’s most famous bicycle races. This July, teams from across globe are competing in the Tour de France, including ‘Team Sky’ for Great Britain. The event runs from 2 to 24 July 2016 and has 24 stages – so there’s plenty of time for you to show your support, cheer on Team Sky and maybe spot a few famous faces, too.<br /> <br />(You can view the full <a title="Tour de France website" href="http://www.letour.com/le-tour/2016/us/overall-route.html" target="_blank">Tour de France 2016 route on the official website</a>).</p>
<h3>Pitch-up on route for £7.15</h3>
<p>On 14 July at around 12.30pm, the tour is crossing <a href="/link/7989e89e0b424ad3a95f0715d389226c.aspx">Camping Domaine de Massereau</a> in Languedoc-Roussillon. In this exciting stage of the race, you can watch the cyclists begin their ascent towards the infamous Mont Ventoux.<br /> <br />Especially for the occasion, the campsite owners have opened a special area, 250 metres outside the campsite for motorhomes and caravans. Here, members can stay for one night either on 13 or 14 July for just £7.15 (for 2 adults - including tourist tax).<br /> <br />After the event, you can celebrate into the evening as the campsite has arranged a firework display for Bastille Day.<br /> <br /><strong>Book by calling 01342 316101 and quote ‘TDFMassereau2016’.</strong><br /> <br /><strong>About the campsite</strong><br /> <br />Domaine de Massereau is a beautiful site located between Montpellier and Nîmes. With a member rating of four stars, it has friendly staff and great facilities including a pool, bar and restaurant. Guests are also welcome to tour the campsite’s vineyard and purchase its wine.<br /> <br />Pitch prices range from £17.93 per night in low season to £37.14 per night in high season.<br /> <br />This special member offer allows you to stay for one night, between the 13 and 14 July, for just <strong>£7.15 (for 2 adults</strong>, including tourist tax). Your booking will include:</p>
<ul>
<li>pitch with electricity (no water or drainage)</li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">a bracelet to wear, enabling use of the site’s facilities</span></li>
</ul>
<p>Hurry though, only 60 spaces are available!<br /><br />Book your space and quote ‘<strong>TDFMassereau2016</strong>’ to take advantage of this special offer.<br /><br /><span class="button-orange">Call 01342 316101</span></p>
<h2>Cycling in France</h2>
<p>If you are a keen cyclist and love the buzz of Tour de France, you’re not too late to head out on your very own Tour de France trip!<br /> <br />Explore the surprising and diverse landscapes that make up France. Enjoy the long stretches of Normandy’s beaches or take a leisurely ride through the romantic city of Paris. Pick up the pace exploring the pine forests and lakes of Bordeaux or absorb the Mediterranean tranquillity as you ride around Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. <br /> <br />Like the idea of exploring France by bike? Browse our top <a title="activity-focused overseas sites" href="/link/470742d86a714f88902b380cb63c0206.aspx">activity-focused overseas sites</a> in France which offer a great base for cycling, hiking and other outdoor sports and activities.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 14 Jun 2016 10:59:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/french-fuel-strikes/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/french-fuel-strikes/</link><title>French fuel strikes</title><description><h3>*Update: Wednesday 22 June*</h3>
<p>The situation in France has predominantly returned to normal and buying fuel is no longer a problem.</p>
<p>However, there continues to be intermittent strike action at some of the Brittany Ferries' French ports. This has been occurring on Thursdays and generally resulting in a delay to sailing time.</p>
<p>It is best to check the Brittany Ferries website prior to travel for the most up to date information.</p>
<h3>Original article: Franch fuel strikes cause travel disruption</h3>
<p>Although the strikes are causing some disruption to travel, the recent reports that we've received suggest that fuel is now more readily available.</p>
<p>Members who are currently travelling in France have not reported significant issues with getting fuel on <a href="/link/5f449724517a4e818006e8e428be5a6b.aspx">Club Together</a> and many campsites are informing us that there are no restrictions or long queues at the fuel stations.</p>
<p>For details on how the individual French regions are affected, please visit the <a title="Essence blog website" href="https://mon-essence.fr/blog/2016/05/19/penurie-de-carburant/" target="_blank">Essence blog</a>* (best viewed in Google Chrome where it will give you an option to translate the page).</p>
<p>The strikes have only had minimal impact on Brittany Ferries ports so far with no other ports affected. Find out more about how <a title="Brittany Ferries website" href="http://www.brittany-ferries.co.uk/routes/sailing-updates" target="_blank">Brittany Ferries are affected</a>.</p>
<p>* The darker the region appears, the more severely affected the fuel stations in that region are.</p></description><pubDate>Wed, 01 Jun 2016 16:42:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/super-playground-launch/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/super-playground-launch/</link><title>Super playground launch</title><description><p>We’d love you to join us and be one of the first to try it out!&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you book a break with your family that includes Saturday 21st May, you can be part of our grand opening. The celebrations run from 2pm-4pm, during which time there’ll be free ice cream, fun with the Tourer Explorer gang and the opportunity for your kids to test out the brand new equipment and games area.</p>
<h2>Tourer Explorer</h2>
<p>Kids can meet and play with our larger than life <a title="Tourer Explorer" href="/link/bee0bace07c04e708176b1d9ca5a5789.aspx">Tourer Explorer</a> characters, Holly Day and Andy Venture, who will be paying us a visit to join in the celebrations. There will also be fun toys available for kids to buy with their pocket money as a memento of their day.</p>
<p>The Club and team at Ferry Meadows Caravan Club Site in Peterborough have worked hard to create an adventure playground that kids of all ages can enjoy; to make those family holidays extra special.</p>
<p>The new playground has state of the art equipment, including climbing nets, wooden beams for balancing on, a mini rock climbing wall to conquer, tunnels to crawl through and swings and spinners. Some of the equipment is also wheelchair accessible, so everyone can join in the fun!</p>
<p>The new playground is a safe and fun way for kids to enjoy their time on site. There’s even a space for ball games and a quieter area for parents to relax and chat while the little ones enjoy themselves.</p>
<h2>Be there on the day</h2>
<p>To join us for this special occasion, just book your pitch at <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Ferry Meadows Caravan Club site</a>. Remember, the fun starts from 2pm - we hope to see you there!</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 12 May 2016 11:10:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/winter-holidays-site-booking-opens-soon/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/winter-holidays-site-booking-opens-soon/</link><title>Winter holidays abroad - site booking opens soon</title><description><p>Kiss goodbye to wintry weather and say hello to another season of sunshine with The Club’s&nbsp;</p>
<p>Our handpicked campsites in Spain and Portugal offer year-round facilities so you can enjoy autumn and winter breaks in comfort. Relax on golden beaches, discover picturesque villages or take in lively cities while leaving the cold behind.</p>
<h3>En route stops</h3>
<p>Break up your journey by staying at one of our en route sites. These provide a convenient overnight stopover should you need it. This year, we’ve added two French sites to the programme:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/link/49e6d9bff690440e8d79124be8ae1b2d.aspx">Les Bois du Bardelet</a> in Central France</li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/34cd1af1abb248d6b79c4db8c33879c2.aspx">Camping Indigo Strasbourg</a> in Alsace - A stay here is the ideal opportunity to explore the famous Strasbourg Christmas market</span></li>
</ul>
<h3>Fantastic low rates</h3>
<p><strong>Book your holiday through us today for lower rates than going direct*.</strong></p>
<p>Many of the sites in our winter programme have special long-stay rates, making your holiday even more affordable.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">What’s more, when you book your sites with a ferry crossing, you’ll be able to take advantage of our low ferry fares, enabling you to save further.</span></p>
<table border="0">
<thead>
<tr><th>&nbsp;</th><th>Duration</th><th>Caravan Club price per night*</th><th>Campsite price per night*</th><th>ACSI price per night</th></tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Vilanova Park</td>
<td>14-20 nights</td>
<td>£12.04</td>
<td>£13.17</td>
<td>£13.28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>La Manga</td>
<td>61-90 nights</td>
<td>£9.14</td>
<td>£10.00</td>
<td>£13.28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bonterra Park</td>
<td>31-59 nights</td>
<td>£11.86</td>
<td>£12.97</td>
<td>£14.84</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cabo de Gata</td>
<td>16-30 nights</td>
<td>£12.37</td>
<td>£13.53</td>
<td>£14.84</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Book your winter holiday</h3>
<h3>Book your winter break by calling&nbsp;<strong>01342 316 101,</strong> or order a Winter Escapes brochure via the <a title="Winter Escapes Brochure" href="/link/a284df8350484d20855db95391252873.aspx">Club Shop</a> - The new brochure will be available to order soon!</h3>
<p>*based on exchange rate of 1.28 euros to the pound.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 10 May 2016 16:52:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravanner-of-the-year-winners/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravanner-of-the-year-winners/</link><title>Caravanner of the year winners</title><description><p>John and Jenny Marsland emerged victorious after they impressed the judges in the final episode.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The programmes were filmed at <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Ferry Meadows Caravan Club site</a> and aired on BBC2 at 8pm on 20th and 27th April. They followed the fun and drama as motorhomers, caravanners and campervanners competed against each other.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2><span>About the show</span></h2>
<p>Six top enthusiasts (all Club members) battled it out across two highly charged weekends to win The Caravan Club's inaugural competition.</p>
<p>The competitors were faced with a variety of challenges designed to test:</p>
<ul>
<li>Manoeuvring</li>
<li>Navigation</li>
<li>Hospitality</li>
<li>Caravanning know-how</li>
</ul>
<p>Their efforts were then judged by our panel of experts:</p>
<ul>
<li>Grenville Chamberlain (Caravan Club Chairman)</li>
<li>Lucy Jayne Grout (vintage caravan restorer and designer)</li>
<li>Martin Dorey (BBC series The Camper Van Cook)</li>
<li>Andy Harris (motorhome journalist)</li>
</ul>
<h2>The winners</h2>
<p>The victors, John and Jenny Marsland, said, “We entered the competition to show that you don’t need to spend a fortune to be adventurous and rounded caravanners."</p>
<p>"We also wanted people to see how beautiful our Cheltenham caravan is and to show how it has stood the test of time."</p>
<p>"We had great fun during the competition heats and we met such lovely people along the way. To put the icing on the cake, we won the title of Caravanner of the Year, which has made us very proud of our pastime.”</p>
<h2>Take a touring adventure of your own</h2>
<p>Visit the setting for Caravanner of the Year and book a break at <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Ferry Meadows Caravan Club site</a>. The site, in Cambridgeshire, sits in a beautiful country park and is surrounded by lush greenery.</p>
<h2>Join our Club</h2>
<p>If you're not a member yet, have you considered joining? There are a host of benefits to being a member, including access to over 2,500 sites, exclusive member offers and great savings on days out. Find out more about what <a title="Find out more about our Club" href="/link/586744e30abc4a94b42555fac6b1a6a4.aspx">Caravan Club membership</a> can offer you.</p>
<h2>Join in the conversation</h2>
<p>Out &amp; About Live commented that Caravanner of the Year has, "got people talking about the industry we love" - and we want those conversations to continue!</p>
<p>Follow Caravanner of the Year on Twitter <a title="Follow of Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/CaravanClubCOTY" target="_blank"><strong>@CaravanClubCOTY</strong></a>, or like our Facebook page: <a title="Facebook page" href="https://www.facebook.com/Caravanner-of-the-Year-234727036879831/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Caravanner of the Year</a>&nbsp;to be part of the conversation. Don't forget to use the hashtag! <strong>#caravanclubCOTY</strong></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 28 Apr 2016 10:57:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/south-devon-highway-now-open/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/south-devon-highway-now-open/</link><title>South Devon highway now open</title><description><p>Great news for members who want to visit the south west of England this season; the award-winning South Devon Highway is now open and providing travellers with easier access to Club sites in the area.</p>
<p>The Highway is a 5.5km stretch of dual carriageway that runs to the west of the existing A380. It bypasses Kingskerswell and the A380 between Newton Abbot and Torbay.</p>
<h3>Faster, safer travel</h3>
<p>This major new road provides a faster, safer and less congested alternative to the frustrating A380 traffic bottleneck. This new route will allow visitors to explore south Devon more freely and restore the existing road to a quiet route for local traffic, cyclists and pedestrians.</p>
<p>Now that access has been improved, this spring/summer season is an excellent time to tour the beautiful Club sites in Devon.</p>
<h3>Discover Club sites in Devon</h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Enjoy the panoramic views of Devon's lush countryside and coastline with a sea-view pitch at <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Hillhead Caravan Club sit</a>e in Brixham. If you prefer riverside to seaside, <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Ramslade Caravan Club site</a> is nestled along the River Dart and is a great base for exploring the towns along the English Riviera.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">For peace and quiet, <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Steamer Quay Caravan Club site</a>&nbsp;has a serene atmosphere even though it's within walking distance of vibrant Totnes. If you'd rather ramble through Dartmoor National Park than a town centre, <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">Stover Caravan Club site</a> allows you to stay on Dartmoor's doorstep.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Find out more about the new <a title="South Devon Highway" href="http://southdevonlinkroad.co.uk/" target="_blank">South Devon Highway</a> or get a little <a title="Be inspired" href="/link/866c50e1b1674b25af108c9b27f425af.aspx">May Bank Holiday inspiration</a>.</span></p></description><pubDate>Wed, 27 Apr 2016 10:40:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/over-100-european-sites-for-under-15-a-night/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/over-100-european-sites-for-under-15-a-night/</link><title>Over 100 European sites for under £15 a night</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Choose from </span><strong style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">over 100 overseas sites</strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"> available for </span><strong style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">under £15</strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"> per night during low season, which means you can take a week’s break on a pitch with electricity for less than £105.</span></p>
<p>Get a taste of what you can enjoy this season with our selection of <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">top sites under £15</a> – these are especially good off-peak deals that you can benefit from as a Caravan Club member - don’t forget that when you book your sites with a <a title="Book a ferry" href="/link/d78d410b6afe4169b13e05e868669ec4.aspx">ferry</a>, you’ll also get a deal on the crossing.</p>
<h2>A good time to book</h2>
<p>Travel abroad in early summer and make the most of this time of year. The weather is pleasant but not too hot, the tourist hotspots aren’t too crowded and lower prices mean you can make your budget go further. This year we’ve secured prices from a favourable exchange rate, so our members can often get a better deal than booking direct with the campsite.</p>
<h2>Book your next holiday today</h2>
<p>For more information, or to book your summer holiday, call <strong>01342 316 101</strong> or visit our overseas travel pages.</p>
<p class="button-green"><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a title="View overseas sites" href="/link/0286c1a8bd164f498f00694a221d3852.aspx">View overseas sites</a></span></p></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Apr 2016 10:31:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/ferry-meadows-super-playground/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/ferry-meadows-super-playground/</link><title>Introducing the Ferry Meadows super playground</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The hard work has paid off and the fun is ready to start on Friday 29 April - perfect timing for an early May Bank Holiday break.</span></p>
<p>The Club and team at <a href="/link/42268f59f8924695a7062689c488878b.aspx">Ferry Meadows Caravan Club Site</a> in Peterborough have worked hard to create an adventure playground that kids of all ages can enjoy; to make those family holidays extra special.</p>
<h3>Great for all ages</h3>
<p>The new addition to the site boasts some of the best equipment on The Club network and brings the excitement of exploring the great outdoors to your doorstep. The new facilities are sure to be a hit, whether your kids are tots or teens.</p>
<p>There are multiple areas to explore where kids can climb high across nets and wooden beams, scale the mini rock climbing wall, before sliding back down to explore the tunnels, swings and spinners. Some of the new equipment is wheelchair accessible, so everyone can join in with the fun.</p>
<p>There is also a space designed especially for ball games, so children can play together in an environment where parents feel they are safe.</p>
<h3>Be the first to try it out!</h3>
<p>If you and your family want to be the first to experience the newest adventure to be had at <a href="/link/42268f59f8924695a7062689c488878b.aspx">Ferry Meadows Caravan Club site</a>, now's the time to book your pitch, so you can see it for yourself!</p>
<p style="position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; padding-top: 25px;"><span style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GaN4R0S6xfc?rel=0" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 14 Apr 2016 09:14:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravanner-of-the-year-on-bbc2/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravanner-of-the-year-on-bbc2/</link><title>Don't miss 'Caravanner of the Year' on BBC2</title><description><p>Six enthusiasts and Caravan Club members are challenged with various tasks and battle it out over two exciting weekends to be crowned the winner of Caravanner of the Year.</p>
<h2>When to watch</h2>
<p>The Caravanner of the Year competition was filmed by the BBC. The second and final, part airs on Wednesday 27 April at 8pm on BBC2. Tune in to find out who wins!</p>
<h2>About the show</h2>
<p>Watch the fun and drama unfold as caravan, motorhome and campervan owners strive to be the best above the rest. The challenges included:</p>
<ul>
<li>Manoeuvring</li>
<li>Navigation</li>
<li>Hospitality</li>
<li>Caravanning know how</li>
</ul>
<p>The competition was filmed at our very own <a href="/link/42268f59f8924695a7062689c488878b.aspx">Ferry Meadows site</a> and was marked by our panel of judges:</p>
<ul>
<li>Grenville Chamberlain (Caravan Club Chairman)</li>
<li>Lucy Jayne Grout (vintage caravan restorer and designer)</li>
<li>Martin Dorey (BBC series The Camper Van Cook)</li>
<li>Andy Harris (motorhome journalist)</li>
</ul>
<p>Tune in and watch, and don't forget to tell your friends and family about it too!</p>
<h2>Want to know more?</h2>
<p>If this has fired your interest in The Caravan Club, discover the <a title="Benefits of joining The Club" href="~/link/5471e763f3914846a367f2dcdf9332c5.aspx">benefits of joining</a> including access to over 2,500 sites and huge <a title="Membership benefits" href="/link/586744e30abc4a94b42555fac6b1a6a4.aspx">savings on family days out</a>. <br /><br />If you feel like you need to hone your skills like our enthusiasts, we also offer a host of <a title="Training courses" href="/link/f4ca0b91b7fa4488943f648493ec1ebe.aspx">training courses</a> perfectly designed for both new and experienced caravanners and motorhomers.</p>
<p>Follow Caravanner of the Year on <strong>Twitter</strong> @<a title="Follow on Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/CaravanClubCOTY" target="_blank">CaravanClubCOTY</a> or like our <strong>Facebook</strong> page: <a title="Follow on Facebook" href="https://www.facebook.com/Caravanner-of-the-Year-234727036879831/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Caravanner of the Year</a> - don't forget to use the hashtag! <strong>#caravanclubCOTY</strong></p></description><pubDate>Mon, 11 Apr 2016 11:06:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-orchards-wins-top-100-award/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-orchards-wins-top-100-award/</link><title>The Orchards gets the gold - again!</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The prestigious title was awarded by Practical Caravan and Practical Motorhome Magazine and voted for by their readers.</span></p>
<h3>A must-visit site</h3>
<p><a href="/link/289fc2cfbbb74691b17f864909a3dba6.aspx">The Orchards Holiday Park</a>, one of our Affiliated Sites based in Newbridge on the Isle of Wight, swept the board with hundreds of visitors saying how much they love the site.</p>
<p>Site owner, Tim Gray said: "All of the staff are delighted. It means so much that their hard work and dedication to the park is recognised by the visitors."</p>
<p>It was the site's excellent facilities, cleanliness, layout and warm welcome that helped clinch the top spot.</p>
<h3>The Isle of Wight</h3>
<p>The Orchards is in the little village of Newbridge in West Wight and boasts some incredible views. The surrounding Area of Outstanding National Beauty is perfect for walkers and cyclists, or a short bus journey will take you to the towns of Newport and Yarmouth.<br /> <br />The island is packed with attractions, so there's plenty to do, whatever your age. From long sandy beaches to prehistoric theme parks and excellent pubs and restaurants, there's much to enjoy on the Isle of Wight.</p>
<h3>Visit other Top 100 sites</h3>
<p>Other Club Sites and Affiliated Sites (AS) to crack the Top 100 were:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/link/b8aba6a6caf5480a9035a3ede406cb20.aspx">Grantown on Spey Caravan Park</a> (AS)</li>
<li><a href="/link/e829adca2e294dc7bb375b420510c276.aspx">Riverside Touring Park</a> (AS)</li>
<li><a href="/link/1a3b35fa63964fbd82b623560e0e449f.aspx">Stanmore Hall Touring Park</a> (AS)</li>
<li><a href="/link/e7f09c895a0849c5bf426228b72939da.aspx">Ludlow Touring Park</a> (AS)</li>
<li><a href="/link/3546915b16064ccfb867d51e6a619167.aspx">Wood Farm Caravan Park</a> (AS)</li>
<li><a href="/link/9f20ecbb5909449abb83e5bdf2d22a80.aspx">Hillhead Caravan Club Site</a></li>
<li><a href="/link/e34db68decc34038b45f33e82b83ec5b.aspx">Bath Chew Valley Caravan Park</a>&nbsp;(AS)</li>
<li><a href="/link/f6ad2462536141e2a4e165d2138694f8.aspx">Dornafield Touring Park</a> (AS)</li>
</ul>
<p>Come and see why The Orchards has taken the top spot again and <a href="/link/51eccd41a001432e9879c41ac683b565.aspx">book your stay</a> today.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 07 Apr 2016 11:25:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/freshwater-east-and-white-water-park-booking/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/freshwater-east-and-white-water-park-booking/</link><title>Book the new Freshwater East and White Water Park</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">You can now book Freshwater East for stays after Thursday 21 July 2016, and White Water Park for stays after 25 August 2016. Both sites have had major improvement work during winter. We've been working hard to improve the site's facilities to make your stay with us even better, and we're looking forward to you seeing the results.</span></p>
<h3>Freshwater East Caravan Club Site (Pembrokeshire)</h3>
<p>Both toilet blocks on the site have been improved and underfloor heating has been added for a little touch of luxury! There are new disabled facilities, a laundry and an inside dishwashing area to make the chores a little easier.</p>
<p>The site now has some wider touring pitches for members to enjoy, and we've converted 11 grass pitches into serviced pitches. The site reception has also benefitted from some work and a new children’s play area will keep the kids entertained while you relax.<br /> <br />Freshwater East Caravan Club Site is in the Pembrokeshire National Park. The stunning scenery makes it great for keen walkers, and the long sandy beach is perfect for relaxing.</p>
<h3>White Water Park Caravan Club Site (Stockton-on-Tees)</h3>
<p>The site had some major improvements this winter. Both toilet blocks have been refurbished and a new play area and caravan wash area have been built. We've converted some grass pitches to hardstanding pitches and 21 pitches have become serviced pitches.<br /> <br />The entrance to White Water Park has had a makeover and the entry lane has been widened to make it easier for larger outfits. The motorhome waste point has also enjoyed an upgraded to make it more convenient for everyone to use.<br /> <br />White Water Park is opposite Britain’s largest international-standard canoeing and rafting course, but if that’s not your thing there is excellent shopping and birdwatching nearby.</p>
<h2>Book a break today</h2>
<p>Book a break at the new-look <a href="/link/a3d2d16fc5ca483a94919d102f205825.aspx">Freshwater East</a>, or <a href="/link/5d89b8038a03443789189a808fc24309.aspx">White Water Park</a> and see what’s changed. Find out more about our <a href="/link/658626ee75a54c519382cb30f651875b.aspx">site redevelopment work</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Wed, 16 Mar 2016 11:57:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/save-on-trips-to-the-isle-of-wight/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/save-on-trips-to-the-isle-of-wight/</link><title>Save on trips to the Isle of Wight</title><description><p>Our Wightlink and Southland short break and foot passenger offers are back by popular demand for 2016.</p>
<h3>Exclusive short break offer</h3>
<p>Book a four-night break at Southland Caravan Club Site and enjoy a return ferry crossing from only £149 per stay*. Depart on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between 6 September and 27 October (excluding 8 to 11 September).</p>
<p>Our <a href="/link/7bcecf4b15ba4566b22f0b212f2a651e.aspx">Southland Caravan Club Site</a> is located at Sandown on the eastern side of the island in the beautiful Arreton Valley. There are over 120 attractions and places of interest for your family to visit on the island, and half of it is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it a walker’s paradise.<br /> <br />You can book by calling The Club’s Contact Centre on <strong>01342 488 716</strong>.</p>
<h3>Foot passenger offer</h3>
<p>When you travel with Wightlink from Lymington to Yarmouth, Portsmouth to Fishbourne or Portsmouth to Ryde between March and August (excluding 9 to 12 June and 8 to 12 September) you can make excellent savings! Book via the Wightlink call centre on <strong>03339 997 333</strong>.</p>
<ul>
<li>Adult: £8.00</li>
<li>Children: £4.00</li>
<li>Students: £7.00</li>
<li>Seniors: £6.00</li>
</ul>
<p>*Terms and conditions can be found on our <a href="/link/d78d410b6afe4169b13e05e868669ec4.aspx">Wightlink</a>&nbsp;page.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2016 13:21:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravan-club-contact-centre-scoops-customer-service-award/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravan-club-contact-centre-scoops-customer-service-award/</link><title>Caravan Club contact centre scoops customer service award</title><description><p>The Club joins the list alongside other major companies including The Co-operative Bank, Met Office and Aviva. The team received the award at a gala evening at Manchester United FC’s Old Trafford. <br /> <br />Our Head of Operations - Membership Services, Peter Martin and some of our customer services team received a trophy on the night.<br /> <br />Peter said: “When we were told that we’d not only made the top 50, but were 28 in the UK in our first year, it was a very special moment for all of us.”<br /> <br />The nationwide programme is the UK’s biggest annual ‘mystery shopper’ event and sets a benchmark for service standards.</p>
<p>Peter added: "The results will help to identify areas for improvement and help us deliver our aspiration to provide even greater service to our members in the future."</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2016 13:31:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-2016-great-savings-guide-has-landed/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-2016-great-savings-guide-has-landed/</link><title>The 2016 Great Savings Guide has landed</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The <a href="/link/1791aa8849a343988fcb27047084eac6.aspx">Great Savings Guide</a> is full of money-saving offers for exciting attractions throughout the UK and Ireland. There’s something for everyone too, from historic castles, museums and galleries to wildlife parks.</span></p>
<h3>Great offers on exciting attractions!</h3>
<ul>
<li>Enjoy two-for-one at the famous Roman Baths in Somerset. Explore the remains of the finest Roman religious spa in Northern Europe.</li>
<li>There's also two-for-one to be had at South Lakes Safari Zoo in Cumbria. See the lions, tigers, penguins, hippos and wolves and enjoy loads of activities.</li>
<li>A two-for-one entry at the famous Ripley’s Believe it or Not visitor attraction in London will also come in handy! See the wonderfully weird curiosities collected by famous adventurer Robert Ripley and get a free guidebook too!</li>
<li>Or why not swing by and enjoy 10% off a Tree Top Adventure at Go Ape (various locations)? Go Ape is new to the Great Savings Guide for 2016 and has exciting Tarzan swings and zip wires, great for keeping your little monkeys entertained!</li>
</ul>
<p>The Great Savings Guide even has vouchers for exciting activities including laser games, site seeing tours and swimming lessons!<br /><br />Members can order a <a href="/link/fda77f62ab2b4fc798f383257005b98d.aspx"><strong>FREE</strong> Great Savings Guide</a> from our Club shop now.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 14 Jan 2016 13:35:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/overseas-travel-bookings--13-january-2016/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/overseas-travel-bookings--13-january-2016/</link><title>Overseas Travel Bookings – 13 January 2016</title><description><h3>Making amendments to your booking</h3>
<p>For those members who have called us to amend their Travel bookings, Events bookings and Training Course bookings, please note that we are still experiencing system issues.</p>
<p>This issue is not preventing new bookings from being made however it is not possible to amend or cancel existing bookings. We are working hard on a solution and we thank you for your patience.</p>
<p><strong>Update: We have fixed the issue but are currently working through a backlog of work so we ask for your continued patience as our Contact Centre call volumes are very high. Our Contact Centre is open until 5:30pm today and will reopen at 8:45am tomorrow morning.</strong></p></description><pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2016 14:15:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/tourer-explorer-donates-to-fields-in-trust/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/tourer-explorer-donates-to-fields-in-trust/</link><title>Tourer Explorer donates to Fields in Trust</title><description><p>Director General Nick Lomas presented the cheque to the charity just before Christmas last year to help fund their great work to preserve outdoor spaces.<br /> <br />We donated 10% of the profits from the sale of <a href="/link/241c09c5a00748428bc7712403bcbeb6.aspx">Tourer Explorer</a> 'goodies' (including key rings, soft toys, pens and games) to Fields in Trust, who we first partnered with in May 2015.</p>
<p>Nick (pictured, right) said: “We are delighted that, from the sale of Tourer Explorer merchandise, we have been able to raise funds to support Fields in Trust this year.</p>
<p>"We recognise, just like Fields in Trust do, the importance of outdoor spaces for families of all ages to enjoy together, for fitness, fun and relaxing time together.”</p>
<p>Richard McKeever Marketing and Communications Manager at Fields in Trust (pictured, left) said: "We are delighted that The Caravan Club is supporting Fields in Trust with proceeds from Tourer Explorer pocket money toys. This will help Fields in Trust to secure playing fields, parks and playgrounds for future generations.</p>
<p>"We know that members of the Caravan Club share our concern to ensure outdoor space remains freely accessible for all to enjoy."</p>
<h2>Fields in Trust</h2>
<p>Fields in Trust is a 90-year-old charity that works to protect and promote open spaces for sport and recreation in cities and towns. They protect over 2,400 sites across the UK, working to keep these spaces open for everyone to enjoy.</p>
<h2>What is Tourer Explorer?</h2>
<p>Tourer Explorer is a fun family initiative from the Caravan Club. Our aim is to help get children and their families enjoying the great outdoors together while holidaying with us.</p>
<p>Kids can join in the fun with help from our intrepid adventurers Andy Venture and Holly Day with free activity packs on 66 of our sites.</p>
<p>They can follow treasure trails in search of the Caravan Club geocache, complete the activity pack challenges to win a reward and take home a 'pocket money purchase' to remember their stay.</p>
<p>Find out more about <a href="/link/241c09c5a00748428bc7712403bcbeb6.aspx">Tourer Explorer</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 08 Jan 2016 13:41:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/bookings-for-2016-now-open/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/bookings-for-2016-now-open/</link><title>Bookings for 2016 now open!</title><description><p><span class="button-green">Book a 2016 pitch now</span></p>
<h2>2016 prices</h2>
<p>For details about the prices for next season, take a look at our <a title="2016 Site prices and opening dates" href="/link/51eccd41a001432e9879c41ac683b565.aspx" target="_top">2016 Site Prices and Opening Dates information</a>.</p>
<h2>Tent bookings</h2>
<p>You'll be able to book tent pitches online <strong>from 6 January</strong> for the 2016 season - we have over 40 sites with tent pitches.</p>
<h2>Site redevelopments</h2>
<p>We are currently working on plans for redevelopments for <a href="/link/a3d2d16fc5ca483a94919d102f205825.aspx">Freshwater East Caravan Club site</a> and <a href="/link/5d89b8038a03443789189a808fc24309.aspx">White Water Park Caravan Club site</a>, which will see some fantastic improvements to the service and facilities you'll receive.</p>
<p>These sites will be closed whilst we are redeveloping so you're unable to book these for the 2016 season at the moment. Don't worry - we'll keep you updated about when these sites will open and when you can book them.</p>
<p><span class="button-green">Book a 2016 pitch now</span></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 10 Dec 2015 13:52:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/we-partner-with-the-national-motor-museum-for-ww1-project/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/we-partner-with-the-national-motor-museum-for-ww1-project/</link><title>Leisure Motoring after the First World War exhibition</title><description><h3>A wartime revolution in motoring</h3>
<p>Remembrance Day is a great time to learn about the lesser-known stories of post-wartime Britain. The 'Caravans and Charabancs - Leisure Motoring after the First World War' exhibition is a great opportunity to discover how social and technological developments in wartime led to a revolution in motoring.</p>
<p>Supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), the project is at the National Motor Museum (Beaulieu) in the New Forest. It tells the story of the First World War’s influence on post-war leisure motoring through <a href="/link/993a461fe9de4b0faa72c4daef9e39af.aspx">The Caravan Club Collection</a> of memorabilia.</p>
<p>We transferred our collection to Beaulieu from Club headquarters in 2006. The collection dates from the birth of leisure touring in 1885 through to the Caravan Club's centenary celebration in 2007 and beyond.<br /> <br />The project gives the public a chance to learn about previously unseen aspects of The Caravan Club and the National Motor Museum’s fascinating photographic collection.</p>
<p>The HLF funding will also let the museum purchase a unique private collection of over 400 historic photographs and postcards featuring charabancs, an early type of long distance coach.</p>
<p>Angela Wills, curator of the Caravan Club Collection explains: "As the war ended, those that returned home often did so with new ambitions and a bonus in their back pocket. Many were introduced to motor vehicles on the battlefield, and some were inspired to put their new-found skills to good use in peacetime.”</p>
<p>Visit <a title="Visit The Beaulieu website" href="http://www.beaulieu.co.uk/attractions/national-motor-museum/" target="_blank">The National Motor Museum</a> to see this interesting exhibit and find out more about the <a title="Our history" href="/link/993a461fe9de4b0faa72c4daef9e39af.aspx">Caravan Club's history</a>. Why not stay at <a href="/link/87aa3464055942de8ce2259c7ae0b18a.aspx">Black Knowl Caravan Club site</a>? It's open until 16 November and is just a 20 minute drive away.</p></description><pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2015 14:04:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/cl-of-the-year-winner-announced/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/cl-of-the-year-winner-announced/</link><title>CL of the Year winner announced!</title><description><p>Field House Farm has been named CL of the Year 2015.</p>
<p>Field House Farm in Skipwith, York, was voted the best Certified Location by the Caravan Club’s million-strong members.<br /> <br />The award was presented to owner Wendy Tomlinson and her partner Stuart Preston by the Rt. Hon John Whittingdale MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport at the annual Parliamentary Reception.<br /> <br />Joint second place went to Gotrans Certified Location in Norwich and Cusher Valley in Co. Amagh.<br /> <br />CL of the Year is an annual award for privately owned, maximum five-van sites across the UK and is voted for based on the overall quality of our member’s feedback. <br /> <br /><a title="CL of the Year" href="/link/d04676be1eea4c9480f710535325b50d.aspx">Read more about this year's winners.</a></p></description><pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2015 14:13:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/european-and-worldwide-holidays-for-2016/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/european-and-worldwide-holidays-for-2016/</link><title>European and worldwide holidays for 2016</title><description><h3>New overseas campsites</h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Venture Abroad (formerly known as the Continental Caravanning brochure) has a choice of over 250 campsites across 16 countries. This year we introduce 36 new sites, available now for members to book online. The new sites include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">San Marino, Italy – Centro Vacanze San Marino (pictured) – the site provides panoramic countryside views and is close to the Adriatic coastline and the popular city of San Marino. There is also a mini zoo located onsite to keep the kids entertained.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Pays de la Loire, France – Le Domaine de la Brèche – the site is set in 50 acres of beautiful woodland and offers plenty of activities for all the family including a pool, golf and mini golf and bike hire as well as entertainment in high season.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Aquitaine, France – Pomport Beach – the site is set in the historic south-western region of France, perfectly located for exploring the surrounding countryside and beautiful coastal scenery. There is direct access to the onsite lake which has water sports facilities including pedal boats and canoes.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The Caravan Club offers guaranteed best ferry and site package rates, giving members the best value holiday abroad with us. View our ferry offers for more information on this exclusive discount and all our other Ferry offers.</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a title="Search overseas sites" href="/link/0286c1a8bd164f498f00694a221d3852.aspx">Search overseas sites…</a></span></strong></p>
<h3>European touring</h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Our European Tours brochure sees the return of some longstanding favourites, including Dutch Bulb Fields and the Best of Brittany as well as 11 brand new tours including Picturesque Provence and Alpine Austria (pictured). Choose from 24 tours visiting 15 countries or one of our Overseas Rallies to Spain, Germany or Austria.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">All of our European Tours are fully escorted, and you’ll also have free time to enjoy the places we visit at your own leisure. If you are new to touring abroad, we offer three fantastic First Time tours that have been specifically designed to ensure that your first trip overseas is easy and worry-free.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/d700da89b95e443685e19b74917ea940.aspx">View European tours…</a></span></p>
<h3>Worldwide adventures</h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Worldwide tours has arrived with a bang, offering members a variety of stunning escorted group tours and self-drive opportunities in America, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. These new tours include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Great Parks of Western Canada Self Drive – a tour for the adventurous which stops at the Canadian Rockies, Glacier National Park, Banff and Jasper National Parks.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">New Zealand Explorer Motorhome Tour – a 38-day tour which takes in the entire length and breadth of New Zealand. The tour includes tasting fine wines and sampling gourmet food as well as the chance to experience Maori culture, as you take in the amazing landscapes of this diverse and amazing country.&nbsp;</span></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="/link/fa9fe591e8564dbdba155cddb6a8efb3.aspx">View Worldwide tours…</a></p>
<p><strong>Available now!</strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">All of our overseas sites and tours are now available to book for 2016. Whether you’re looking to wind down and relax in the sun, or explore some inspiring destinations, we have a range of holiday ideas especially selected for members.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">If you have booked an overseas holiday through The Club before or ordered a travel brochure in the last two years, you will automatically receive the new brochure in the post. Brochures will also be available to order from the <a href="/link/a284df8350484d20855db95391252873.aspx">Club Shop</a> from late October 2015.</span></p></description><pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2015 14:37:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/truma-gas-filter-recall/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/truma-gas-filter-recall/</link><title>Truma gas filter recall</title><description><p>Truma have identified a material fault in the windows of the filter cup of their gas filter device. This results in the potential for gas leakage and consequent safety concerns, although no serious incidents have been reported.</p>
<p>The issue affects all filter cups from January 2012, and Truma advise that although the risk of failure is low, the gas system should not be used until the filter cup is replaced. They will, of course, replace these free of charge.</p>
<p>For more information about the recall and for further help &amp; advice, please visit the <a title="Truma website" href="https://www.truma.com/int/en/howto/exchange-filtercup.php" target="_blank">Truma website</a>. Please contact Truma <a title="Truma online" href="http://www.truma.com/new-gasfilter" target="_blank">online </a>or via any Truma dealer or service partner to order a replacement. See www.truma.com/dealersearch for a list of Truma dealers.</p>
<p>You can also read more and share your views about the <a title="Community discussion" href="/link/5f449724517a4e818006e8e428be5a6b.aspx">Truma Gas Filter recall</a> on the recent discussion on Club Together, our online community.</p></description><pubDate>Mon, 05 Oct 2015 15:13:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/enjoy-the-borders-to-edinburgh-railway/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/enjoy-the-borders-to-edinburgh-railway/</link><title>Enjoy Edinburgh from Melrose Gibson Park</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The eagerly awaited line was opened by the Queen on Wednesday 9 September, the day she became Britain’s longest running monarch.</span></p>
<p>Trains start at Tweedbank station, just 1.5 miles or thirty minutes’ walk from the site. Members and non-members can now enjoy an easy and quick journey in to the city of Edinburgh without the worry of the traffic or park and ride.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The journey takes in some majestic views along the 30-mile route, and takes 55 minutes. The railway line is the longest domestic line to be constructed in Britain for over 100 years.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Melrose Gibson Park Caravan Club Site is nestled on the edge of the town of Melrose, with its charming shops and historic buildings. It's overlooked by the Eilden Hills and has some fantastic walks along the banks of the Tweed and picturesque High Country.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Book your break at <a href="/link/9252410fe2f54baab83cc93b6d3a8b97.aspx">Melrose Gibson Park Caravan Club Site</a>, and experience Edinburgh.</span></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2015 15:41:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/playday-2015/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/playday-2015/</link><title>Playday 2015</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a title="Visit the Playday website" href="http://www.playday.org.uk/" target="_blank"><strong>Playday</strong> </a>is a series of nationwide community events that usually take place on the first Wednesday in August. It’s a national day celebrating the importance of&nbsp;children’s right to play, and the positive effects it has on their lives.</span></p>
<p>34 of our sites got involved in the fun this year. The events were a great success and entertained over 500 children!</p>
<p>Activities ranged from arts and crafts, making bird feeders, welly throwing and treasure hunts. There were also sporty activities like egg and spoon racing and badminton as well as bird of prey shows and quizzes.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/9924eb8fc0d3487a89fbd1c46dc96eee.aspx">Burford Caravan Club Site</a> ran a ‘decorate your ‘van competition’ with spectacular results! Children at Cirencester Park Caravan Club Site made their own paper airplanes and face masks as well as took part in a family obstacle race and football games.</span></p>
<p>The kids at our <a href="/link/d573d234850d456daf08ee8aced78697.aspx">Clumber Park Caravan Club Site</a> got to humiliate the grown-ups with a face painting competition!</p>
<p>Things got really wild at our <a href="/link/d61bbeaf1eab49e4b5a2602e3667ca97.aspx">Longleat Caravan Club Site</a> with animal mask making (pictured) and a dog show.</p>
<p><a href="/link/f6ad2462536141e2a4e165d2138694f8.aspx">Dornafield Caravan Club Site</a> had a visit from our Tourer Explorers, Andy Venture and Holly Day.</p>
<p>Find out more about creating <a title="Families" href="/link/241c09c5a00748428bc7712403bcbeb6.aspx">great family memories</a> with The Caravan Club.</p></description><pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2015 15:45:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-listening-project-comes-to-burrs-country-park/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-listening-project-comes-to-burrs-country-park/</link><title>The Listening Project</title><description><h3>What is The Listening Project?</h3>
<p><a title="The Listening Project website" href="http://The Listening Project comes to Burrs Country Park" target="_blank">The Listening Project</a> is a partnership between BBC Radio Four, BBC local and national radio stations and the British Library.</p>
<p>It aims to build a unique picture of our lives today and gives people the chance to have important conversations with friends, family and colleagues that they always wanted to have. Perhaps it’s about a memory, or a question you always wanted to ask.</p>
<p>These important conversations will be recorded and they’ll become part of an audio archive stored at <a title="The British Library" href="http://sounds.bl.uk/Oral-history/The-Listening-Project" target="_blank">The British Library</a>. Future generations will then be able to listen to the sound of your voice. Some will also be broadcast on BBC Radio 4, and BBC Radio Manchester.</p>
<h3>How to take part</h3>
<p>The Listening Project will be bringing their mobile recording studio, The Booth, to Burrs Country Park Caravan Club Site September 23 to 24. To book an appointment to record a conversation with someone you know, get in touch with the Listening Project team now on <strong>0161 228 2255</strong>. It could be the conversation of a lifetime.</p>
<p>Book your stay at <a href="/link/f6b4028b8d2645e6b7043ff7f2bb38ac.aspx">Burrs Country Park Caravan Club Site</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2015 15:52:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/a-big-bltf-thank-you/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/a-big-bltf-thank-you/</link><title>A great big BLTF thank you!</title><description><p>We’d like to thank all the families across the UK who joined us for the fun. It was wonderful to see that the Great British weather didn’t rain on your parade.</p>
<p>From gazebo parties, bacon sandwiches to nature walks and shadow puppets, thank you for sharing your memories with us on Facebook.</p>
<p>Some of you were also toasting marshmallows, playing games with glow sticks, cooking yummy campside meals and bat spotting!</p>
<p>Getting children outside</p>
<p>The Caravan Club invited families up and down the country to join in a one-night festival camp-out, in their own back garden.</p>
<p>Our aim was to get children outside and enjoying nature, with help from <a title="The Woodland Trust website" href="http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/" target="_blank">The Woodland Trust</a> and with some tempting offers from <a title="Riversway Leisure website" href="https://www.riverswayleisure.co.uk/" target="_blank">Riversway Leisure</a> and <a title="Westin Gourmet website" href="https://www.westingourmet.co.uk/" target="_blank">Westin Gourmet</a>.</p>
<p>We gave away hundreds of Festival Packs with bunting and wristbands and scores of you entered our competitions to win fantastic prizes including a European camping holiday for four people.</p>
<p>Thank you to our amazing official festival bloggers including Tin Box Traveller; Free Range Family; One Dad Three Girls; Are We Nearly There Yet, Mummy; Sticky Fingers and others for writing about their own Big Little Tent Festival experiences.</p>
<p>We can’t wait for you to join us again next year for another tent festival extravaganza!</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2015 15:58:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/forth-bridge-balbirnie-park-to-edinburgh/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/forth-bridge-balbirnie-park-to-edinburgh/</link><title>Forth Bridge Balbirnie Park to Edinburgh</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The bridge is the sixth site in Scotland to gain the prestigious status, along with the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, New Lanark, The Antonine Wall, the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh and St Kilda.</span></p>
<p>The bridge opened in 1890 and is one of the most recognisable examples of engineering in the world. It spans the estuary of the River Forth, connecting Fife and the Highlands and islands of the north to the Lothians and City of Edinburgh to the south.</p>
<p>To see this feat of ingenuity, travel the line into Edinburgh from our <a href="/link/13c77d0f1e9a40c2aca050d5e2674977.aspx">Balbirnie Park Caravan Club site</a> near Fife. The site is located just 10 to 15 minute's walk from Markinch station, with links to Edinburgh, Dundee and Perth.</p>
<h3>Forth Bridge facts</h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The Forth Bridge stands 110 metres high, is 2.53 kilometres long and was the longest bridge in the world when it was opened.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">It was considered to be at the foremost of innovation when it was built, and its new status means it will be protected.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The steel structure has around 200 local and intercity trains crossing it every day, making it a key part of the national East Coast mainline.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Book your stay at <a href="/link/13c77d0f1e9a40c2aca050d5e2674977.aspx">Balbirnie Park Caravan Club site</a>.</span></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2015 16:12:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/blackshaw-moor-unveils-ww2-plaque/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/blackshaw-moor-unveils-ww2-plaque/</link><title>Blackshaw Moor unveils WW2 plaque</title><description><p>The plaque will be placed on a gatepost from the original campsite entrance in Staffordshire on 16 September. Photos of the site will also be displayed so visitors can see what the Polish campsite looked like.</p>
<p>This year sees the 70th anniversary of the end of World War 2, and it was with this in mind that staff at <a href="/link/5a18873afcc845b484a7e08da4a27131.aspx">Blackshaw Moor Caravan Club Site</a> decided to uncover the lesser-known history of the area.</p>
<p>The land at Blackshaw Moor has a rich history having been occupied by allied troops and then their families up until 1964. The staff at the site worked with two members of the Polish community to find out more about the camp that used to stand there.</p>
<p>The American 565th US Anti-aircraft battalion first used the site as a transit camp in 1943, and were stationed there in readiness for the attack on Europe. The Polish troops then used the site in 1946, and their families came to live with them at the end of the war when they couldn’t go home because of the Russian threat.</p>
<p>Most of the people who lived at the camp site would have worked in the local quarries, so the site was significant to the local community. Old buildings can still be seen on an adjacent field at the site to this day.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Blackshaw Moor Caravan Club Site is based in Staffordshire on the south side of the beautiful Peak District. It's a great site for families, has stunning views nearby and the facilities have been recently refurbished.</p>
<p>Book your break at <a href="/link/5a18873afcc845b484a7e08da4a27131.aspx">Blackshaw Moor Caravan Club Site</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2015 16:21:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/are-you-ready-for-the-big-little-tent-festival/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/are-you-ready-for-the-big-little-tent-festival/</link><title>Are you ready for The Big Little Tent Festival</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The big weekend is almost upon us, and we’ve added another great offer to get your Big Little Tent Festival off to a sizzling start!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">We’ve got a fantastic new offer with help from quality meat connoisseurs Westin Gourmet to bring you a feast fit for a festival.</span></p>
<h2>New BBQ food offer</h2>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Westin Gourmet is offering an incredible selection of high-quality BBQ meats that are perfect for satisfying fussy eaters, as there’s something for everyone.</span></p>
<h2>Don’t forget</h2>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Riversway Leisure is also offering you incredible savings on tent bundle deals (so there’s no excuse not to join in!). The deals include a two-person tent, sleeping bags and a solar powered light for a brilliant price.</span></p>
<h2>How to order</h2>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Order your camping bundle from Riversway Leisure no later than Wednesday 26 August, and your delicious BBQ food from Westin Gourmet no later than 11am on Wednesday 26 August to make sure everything arrives on time.</span></p>
<h2>Join in the fun!</h2>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">There are loads of fun ideas to help make your festival a lasting memory for you and your children, from fun activities like the Woodland Trust’s Chirpie Birdies activity, to campside recipes.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">TV’s Simon Reeve is even joining in, and he’s got some Top Tips to make it a great weekend.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Have you entered our competitions yet? Post your photos on Facebook using <strong>#BLTF</strong> or apply for one of our Festival Packs to be in with a chance of winning a European family camping holiday for four people. See our terms and conditions for more information.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Find out more about <a title="The Big Little Tent Festival" href="/link/6fe5df4e8f074c74988da532031dff50.aspx">The Big Little Tent Festival</a>.</span></p></description><pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2015 16:25:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/troutbeck-head-summer-fun-day/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/troutbeck-head-summer-fun-day/</link><title>Troutbeck Head summer fun day</title><description><p>On <strong>Saturday 22 August</strong> <a href="/link/99fb5f8d6c684752bee7afcb1083c2ef.aspx">Troutbeck Head Caravan Club site</a> will be holding their summer event extravaganza with donations going to Patterdale Mountain Rescue.</p>
<p>There’ll be lots for adults and kids to enjoy on the day, including great food, excellent music and fun games.</p>
<p>Enjoy a blend of acoustic guitars and harmonious vocals with the return of last year's band, <a title="Visit the Something Like This website" href="http://www.somethinglikethis.co.uk/" target="_blank">Something Like This</a>.</p>
<p>There’ll also be:</p>
<ul>
<li>delicious barbecued food and fish and chips</li>
<li>games like ‘Shove a £1, Win a Bottle’ (with a bottle of booze up for grabs)</li>
<li>flamingo puzzle, anagrams, and a football quiz!</li>
</ul>
<p>The event will also have six vintage tractors on site for visitors to see and there’ll be falconry flight displays and demos on looking after avian wildlife for the nature enthusiasts.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a title="Visit the Patterdale Mountain Rescue website" href="http://mountainrescue.org.uk/" target="_blank">Patterdale Mountain Rescue</a> will also be using their years of expertise teaching visitors how to stay safe while out walking.</span></p>
<p>They’re a registered charity run by volunteers who have specialist mountaineering and first aid skills, and have been doing rescues for over 50 years!</p>
<p>Book your stay at <a href="/link/99fb5f8d6c684752bee7afcb1083c2ef.aspx">Troutbeck Head Caravan Club site</a> now and join the fun!</p>
<h3>As if that wasn't enough...</h3>
<p>On Saturday 10th September the <strong>Stage 5 Tour of Britain cycling event will be going from Prudhoe to Hartside Fell</strong>. The route will be coming close to Troutbeck Head having started on September 8 in Cockermouth. For more information, visit the <a title="Visit the Tour of Britain website" href="http://www.tourofbritain.co.uk/stages/stage5/index.php#.Vc23Pigph3s" target="_blank">Tour of Britain</a> website.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2015 09:31:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/leisure-vehicle-survey/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/leisure-vehicle-survey/</link><title>Leisure vehicle survey</title><description><p>We asked you to share your thoughts on the usability, quality and reliability of your new and second-hand caravans, motorhomes, campervans, trailer tents and more.</p>
<p>This massive response has exceeded our expectations and makes this – to our knowledge – the biggest ever in-depth survey of leisure vehicles. It reflects just how much you care about your holiday accommodation on wheels.</p>
<p>Once this huge amount of info has been analysed, we’ll be sharing what we’ve learned. Look out for the first article in our November Club Magazine and more features in following editions and online.</p>
<p>We’ll also be sharing your feedback with the trade and asking for manufacturers’ responses around a number of issues.</p>
<p>The eight lucky winners in the £1500 prize draw have now been drawn at random, notified and chosen their preferred Gift Cards.</p>
<p>Thanks for helping us, and keep an eye on the Caravan Cub website for updates!</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2015 09:41:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravanner-of-the-year/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravanner-of-the-year/</link><title>Caravanner of the Year</title><description><p>We will be scouring the country to find the very best of Britain’s caravanners and motorhomers. The competition is open to individuals, couples, families or friends who regularly tour together.</p>
<p>Those selected for the final shortlist will face an exciting series of fun challenges that will let you demonstrate your key caravanning skills.</p>
<p>Caravanner of the Year will be judged by Grenville Chamberlain, Chairman of The Caravan Club and caravanning expert Andy Harris of Motorhome Channel fame. Guest judges will be called in to assess the different challenges.</p>
<h2>Catch it on the small screen</h2>
<p>The BBC has commissioned the filming of the competition for a brand new, exciting programme celebrating the skills and passions of Britain’s caravanners. The programme will be aired on BBC2.</p>
<h2>How to enter</h2>
<p>To enter, all you need to do is fill in the online application form all about your caravanning experiences. The form includes questions on your touring holidays, favourite places to travel and also asks you to upload photos or videos of your caravan/motorhome.</p>
<p class="button-green"><a title="Enter the competition" href="https://secure.jotformeu.com/form/51882533258360" target="_blank">Enter competition</a></p>
<p>Entry closes at midnight on 16 August 2015. If you are successful in your application you will be contacted by 21 August 2015. Please read the details in the <a title="The form" href="https://secure.jotformeu.com/form/51882533258360" target="_blank">form</a> for more information on application guidelines and terms and conditions.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2015 10:01:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/future-of-baltic-wharf/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/future-of-baltic-wharf/</link><title>Future of Baltic Wharf</title><description><h3>Latest update</h3>
<p>Following further constructive discussions with Bristol City Council, and as a result of the continued support we have received from them, agreement between parties has now been reached to extend the Club’s lease on the Baltic Wharf Caravan Club Site for a further 3 years from September 2015. This is very good news for our members and for the local economy in Bristol.</p>
<p>We very much appreciate the concerns raised by members on the future of this very popular site and hope that our members will understand the sensitive nature of the negotiations that have been on-going to help achieve this agreement.</p>
<h3>Future Bookings</h3>
<p><strong>Stays from Wednesday 2 September 2015 to Sunday 3 January 2016 will be released for sale on Thursday 30 July at 8.45am.</strong></p>
<p class="button-green"><a href="/link/51eccd41a001432e9879c41ac683b565.aspx">Booking info</a></p>
<p>Baltic Wharf Caravan Club Site is a waterside haven, located right in the heart of Bristol's beautifully re-developed dockland. With plenty of nearby entertainment and attractions, including Bristol Zoo, it's also ideal for families.</p>
<p>View <a href="/link/f9adbb6e75624d6d927c6c7dd70b1493.aspx">Baltic Wharf Caravan Club site</a> details page.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2015 09:49:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/changes-to-road-safety-measures-in-france/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/changes-to-road-safety-measures-in-france/</link><title>Changes to road safety measures in France</title><description><h3>A ban on headphones and headsets</h3>
<p>The aim of the measure is to prohibit devices which could limit attention and hearing of drivers. It applies to all drivers and riders of two-wheelers. It includes phone calls and listening of music or the radio, if these actions need a device linked to the ears.</p>
<p>The penalty is a fixed fine of €135; reduced to €90 if paid within a timely manner. Further, 3 points are deducted from the French driving licence. In-vehicle devices, such as Bluetooth systems or integrated systems to the motorcycle helmet, remain legal.</p>
<h3>The reduction of blood alcohol limit for novice drivers</h3>
<p>The level has been reduced from 0.5 g/l to 0.2 g/l for novice drivers with less than three years’ driving experience, the blood alcohol limit has been reduced to 0,2 g/l, which effectively means that novice drivers cannot drink.</p>
<h3>The EU parking card for disabled drivers (or accompanying person)</h3>
<p>The new rule allows disabled drivers to benefit from free parking anywhere and for an unlimited period of time. This measure applies to parking facilities reserved for people with disabilities and all other public parking spaces.</p>
<h3>New road sign: NO ENTRY</h3>
<p>The French authorities have implemented a new road sign for dual carriageway motorways, to avoid cars going in the wrong direction.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2015 14:24:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/grantown-on-spey-wins-best-caravan-site-award/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/grantown-on-spey-wins-best-caravan-site-award/</link><title>Grantown on Spey wins Best caravan site award</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">The Scotland-based site won the coveted award by ranking highest of the top 100, as voted for by over 13,000 caravan, motorhome and camping enthusiasts. Grantown-on-Spey also scooped the top spot in the 'Best Regional Site' in Scotland and the 'Best Open-All-Year Site' category.</span></p>
<h3>Get the most out of Grantown-on-Spey</h3>
<p><a href="/link/b8aba6a6caf5480a9035a3ede406cb20.aspx">Grantown-on-Spey</a> is set in the heart of the Scottish Highlands within the beautiful Cairngorm National Park. Just a short stroll from the little town from which it takes its name, Grantown-on-Spey is a haven for wildlife. Local attractions include a golf course and anglers can fish in the River Spey. The site is of the highest quality and is one of only eight premier parks in Scotland.</p>
<h3>Super-pitches and fancy features</h3>
<p>The site’s super-pitches are extra spacious and include free Wi-Fi, and even a Sky TV box for great TV reception. Fine details such as under floor heating in the shower block, on-site shop and games room really make this a superior site, and a fitting winner of the Best UK Caravan Site 2015 Award.</p>
<p>The awards are based on feedback on a site’s quality by readers of Practical Caravan, Practical Motorhome, and the Caravan Sitefinder website. The comments are then considered by a stringent panel of experts who rank the finalists in each category. The Top 100 Sites Guide is the go-to information source for anyone looking to get the most out of their holiday.</p>
<p>Book a stay at the <a href="/link/648bd5e9a7c44b05850f4908f67cb7f9.aspx">UK’s best site</a> or find out more about <a href="/link/648bd5e9a7c44b05850f4908f67cb7f9.aspx">beautiful places to stay in Scotland</a> now.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2015 10:51:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/poldark-filming-at-st-agnes-beacon/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/poldark-filming-at-st-agnes-beacon/</link><title>Poldark filming at St Agnes Beacon</title><description><p>Set along the beautiful Cornish coastline, the landscape is fitting backdrop for the turbulent drama of his hapless characters.</p>
<p>Poldark was a series of 17 novels that the Manchester-born novelist started in 1945. They told the story of a British Army officer returning home to find his lover marrying another man. In an attempt to revive his fortunes he reopens the family’s tin mine.</p>
<p>The dramatic coastal scenery near St Agnes became a source of inspiration for Graham, who moved to Perranporth at the age of 17. It was here on the north coast of Cornwall that he wrote the majority of his famous work.</p>
<p>The rugged landscape and mining heritage brought the famous characters, Ross Poldark and Demelza Carne to life. A local resident of the St Agnes Parish was even given permission by the novelist himself to refer to the area as ‘Poldark Country’.</p>
<h3>Visit our St Agnes Beacon site</h3>
<p>Our St Agnes Beacon site is ideally located for a trip to Poldark Country. Sitting at the foot of the Beacon, this peaceful site has unforgettable panoramic views of the coastline that inspired the story. The town of St Agnes is a short walk away, and beautiful beaches and surfing spots are within easy reach.</p>
<p>Find out more about our <a href="/link/f20b981f9c1c4a1b8d16f40dde747c9a.aspx">St Agnes Beacon site.</a></p>
<p>"I love the Cornish countryside! Blue skies, blue seas, lovely floral meadows, gorgeous granite cottages and houses, what's not to like!" - Takethedogalong, Club Together</p>
<p><strong>Perranporth</strong></p>
<p>Perranporth, where Graham lived and worked is a little over 5 miles from the site. A stroll along the beach there at low tide will take you to Flat Rocks where you’ll find a Winston Graham memorial plaque. It was here that the novelist’s writing shack once stood before it burnt down.</p>
<p><strong>Trevellas Porth</strong></p>
<p>The unspoilt landscape of Trevellas Porth is just 2.7 miles from the site. This location was used in the early adaptation of Poldark, and is a year-round dog-friendly beach. The area is also where the last remaining tin production centre in the UK is, the Blue Hills mine.</p>
<p><strong>Trevaunance Cove</strong></p>
<p>Trevaunance Cove is home to the ruins of a harbour that used to ship supplies in and out of the St Agnes Parish. The harbour was active until 100 years ago, and the ruins can still be seen at low tide.</p>
<p><strong>Stippy Stappy</strong></p>
<p>Graham took some creative license and relocated the Stippy Stappy to Perranporth in his writing, but this quirky steep row of stone terraced cottages really sits in St Agnes village. These pretty little buildings housed the ships captains and are still a popular landmark.</p>
<p><strong>St Agnes Head and Wheal Coates</strong></p>
<p>The breathtaking landscape of St Agnes Head and Wheal Coates is just one mile from the St Agnes Beacon Caravan Club site. The Wheal Coates mine sits on the edge of the coastal path and stands as a reminder of the area’s once thriving mining industry. During low tide this mine can also be accessed from a large cave on Chapel Porth Beach. This area is particularly beautiful in the autumn when the heather and gorse is blooming, making it ideal for an early-evening dog walk.</p>
<p><strong>Chapel Porth</strong></p>
<p>The rocky cove of Chapel Porth is just one and a half miles from the site and has a coastal path with stunning views. The waters here are known for their turbulent Atlantic surf and the beach’s caves are an explorer’s dream.</p>
<p>The dramatic coast, rolling green hills and windswept terrain of St Agnes is a must-see for any fan of the great outdoors regardless of whether they’re Poldark fans.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/51eccd41a001432e9879c41ac683b565.aspx">Book a break</a> and explore Poldark Country.</span></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2015 10:27:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/advice-on-bogus-email/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/advice-on-bogus-email/</link><title>Advice on bogus email</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">If you have received an email in the last 24 hours from overseastravel@caravanclub.co.uk titled '<strong>Travel Order Confirmation 0300202959</strong>' and have opened an attachment from it, you may have a virus (or Trojan) on your computer which may attempt to 'phish' for your personal details.</span></p>
<p>This email has NOT come from The Club's servers or IT systems but we would like to offer the following advice:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>please do not open this email, please DELETE immediately</strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">if you have opened an attachment such as this please run your anti-virus software</span></strong></li>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">if you don't currently have such software we recommend downloading and running a free virus checker from the website <a title="Malware email" href="http://www.malwarebytes.org" target="_blank">www.malwarebytes.org</a>&nbsp;</span></strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>How to tell the difference between a scam/ phishing email from a genuine Club confirmation</h3>
<p>All documents sent out by The Club are in a PDF (Acrobat) format, and any confirmations will always be addressed to you by name. Scam and phishing emails tend to be .doc attachments and have 'Dear Customer' or a similar generic greeting.</p>
<h3>How to ensure you still receive important Club emails&nbsp;</h3>
<p>Because of the nature and volume of the bogus messages, some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and mail software packages will move caravanclub.co.uk messages into spam or junk folders. Please <strong>check these folders</strong> if you are expecting a message or confirmation – once convinced that it is genuine, the act of moving it into your inbox is usually enough to stop future emails being moved to spam, although we will be working with the ISPs to resolve it at their level too.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We are sorry for any confusion this email may have caused. Please rest assured that your booked overseas travel plans, if you have made any through us, are not affected.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2015 09:30:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/even-more-reasons-to-visit-beautiful-meathop-fell/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/even-more-reasons-to-visit-beautiful-meathop-fell/</link><title>Even more reasons to visit beautiful Meathop Fell</title><description><p>From garden shows, to beer festivals, from the exhilarating Cartmel races, to spending lazy days in Grange over Sands. Experience the delights of the splendid town, its views, and events such as the Sunday afternoon Bandstand Concerts.</p>
<p>Take a stroll across to the Promenade to see the artists at work beside the breathtaking estuary, with sweeping views across Morecambe bay.</p>
<p>A stay at <a href="/link/0afe30eeade2445289e67eee5b66bd54.aspx">Meathop Fell</a> will provide memorable trips to places you may otherwise miss if just staying focused on the tourist guides.</p>
<p>Their 'Fresh Air Fix' walks are filled with awe inspiring vistas, wildlife, and a chance to get away from hubbub of every day life.</p>
<p>The site is open all year and like to assist members with helpful suggestions, such as where to visit, where to eat and, whats going on in the area.</p>
<p>If you are lucky enough to be at Meathop for the famous Cartmel races, to experience the stunning backdrop of the English Lake District, be sure to join in the occasion with picnic, parties all set in the centre of the course whilst the horses race around you!</p>
<p>There are eight race days scheduled each year throughout the summer months, for more details call the site to check availability.</p>
<h3>2015 dates for your diary</h3>
<p><strong>Cartmel Race Days </strong></p>
<p>25 and 27 May | 26 and 28 June | 18 and 20 July | 29 and 30 August</p>
<p><strong>Holker hall Garden Festival</strong></p>
<p>29 - 31 May</p>
<p><strong>Cartmel Agricultural Show</strong></p>
<p>5 August</p>
<p><strong>Grange over Sands Annual Edwardian Festival</strong></p>
<p>13 June</p>
<p><strong>Westmorland Show - Crooklands near Kendal - LA7 7NX</strong></p>
<p>10 September</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Music in the park - Grange over Sands</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Sunday Afternoons 2pm -4pm (every Summer Sunday)</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Cumbria Steam Gathering - Cark Airfield</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">25 and 26 July</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Historic Vehicle Day</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">9 August</span></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2015 11:14:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/plantlife-wild-flower-vote/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/plantlife-wild-flower-vote/</link><title>Plantlife wild flower vote</title><description><p>The shortlist of 25 flowers has been voted for by the membership of Plantlife over the winter and is going live for the public to vote as part of celebrations for the charity’s 25th anniversary. The results will be announced in June.</p>
<p>The UK public can log onto <a title="Visit the Plantlife website" href="http://www.plantlife.org.uk/wildflowervote" target="_blank">www.plantlife.org.uk/wildflowervote</a> to see the 25 shortlisted wild flowers, discover their conservation status and cultural importance and, of course, place their vote. And as votes are placed, see what difference it makes to the countdown...</p>
<p>Plantlife expert Dr Trevor Dines comments “I love this shortlist produced by Plantlife members – it’s slightly bonkers and in many ways reflects us a nation. There are country icons we can be proud of, like dog rose for England and wild daffodil for Wales. There are familiar plants we all know and love – bluebell, primrose and foxglove. But then there some real oddities... Who would have thought chickweed-wintergreen, a rare plant of woods in Scotland and northern England, would have made the list? I’ve only seen it once, although that was enough to confirm its undeniable beauty. On the contrary, cow parsley is seen as road verge weed by some, but is clearly loved by many. There are powerful symbols too – we cherish poppies to remember our fallen soldiers – while legend has it that Pasqueflowers grow on the graves of Viking warriors, springing up from their blood. It’s an eclectic mix; one that perfectly reflects our countryside and our relationship with it.”</p>
<h3>The shortlist:</h3>
<p>Bluebell<br />Primrose<br />Cowslip<br />Harebell<br />Poppy<br />Grass of Parnassus</p>
<p>Wood anemone<br />Bee orchid<br />Snakes head fritillary<br />Red campion<br />Foxglove</p>
<p>Chickweed wintergreen<br />Lesser celandine<br />Oxeye daisy<br />Meadow cranesbill<br />Honeysuckle<br />Thrift</p>
<p>Ragged robin<br />Pasqueflower<br />Dog rose<br />Wild daffodil<br />Viper’s-bugloss <br />Snowdrop<br />Cow parsley<br />Cornflower</p>
<p>For Plantlife’s new Vice President, Rachel de Thame, it is a difficult choice: “Choosing a favourite wild flower is like being asked to choose a favourite child! For me, though, it would be snake’s head fritillary for its shy beauty and simple elegance. This flower has disappeared from 17 vice counties so I hope this national vote will show that we want this gradual vanishing of our wild flowers to stop.”</p>
<p>Marian Spain, Chief Executive, says: “Will it be the bluebell, or the primrose, wood anemone or poppy? Wild flowers hold such a special place in our hearts but we often take them for granted. As part of our 25th celebrations, this public vote gets us talking and thinking about our wild flowers over the spring and early summer, but it also has a serious side. One in five of Britain’s wild flowers is under threat and flowers that have been present for centuries across our counties are disappearing year in, year out. By casting your own vote, you’ll be making it clear that you want to help us keep the colour in the countryside.”</p>
<p>For more information about the shortlisted flowers, high-res images, other celebrity support or to speak to a Plantlife expert, please call Emma Pritchard, <a title="Email Plantlife" href="mailto:emma.pritchard@plantlife.org.uk" target="_blank">emma.pritchard@plantlife.org.uk</a>,&nbsp;<strong>07584 995 929</strong>.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2015 11:07:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/after-dark-at-rspb-pulborough-brooks/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/after-dark-at-rspb-pulborough-brooks/</link><title>After dark at RSPB Pulborough Brooks</title><description><h3>Heathland, woodland, grassland</h3>
<p>Situated on the fringe of the South Down National Park, RSPB Pulborough Brooks plays host to some of the best views in the Arun Valley. Asides from its impressive backdrop, Pulborough Brooks is known for its variety of important habitats.</p>
<p>Areas of heathland, woodland, grassland and wetland have been restored and managed since the RSPB’s acquirement of the site in 1989 and are now the home for many threatened species. One visit to the reserve will display its value to wildlife, as it is not unusual to observe rare animals such as sand lizards, adders, lapwings and nightingales.</p>
<h3>Bats and insects</h3>
<p>There is an abundance of extraordinary wildlife that can be witnessed during the day and as darkness approaches the reserve continues to teem with life. Come nightfall various animals creep and crawl out from their homes on the lookout for food and suitable mates. Bats descend from their roost in hunt for insects such as moths, navigating with the use of a naturally evolved variation of sonar: echolocation.</p>
<p>Moths come in all shapes and sizes, but two of the most impressive species, the Elephant Hawk and Poplar Hawk Moth are known to have wingspans which grow to a length of 7-10cm. The Elephant Hawk Moth is a furry pink and green species which can be routinely spotted in the reserves garden, with adults being active between May and July. Caterpillars can also be found up until September before they pupate and cocoon in order to protect themselves against the harsh winter cold.</p>
<p>However there is one animal that rivals bats for insects such as moths, the nightjar. Nightjars are well camouflaged birds that hide amongst the heather during the day. At night this bird takes full advantage of the moth’s nocturnal lifestyle as it silently swoops across the heath searching and preying on large insects. This threatened migrant species arrives from Africa in April where it nests on ground patches sheltered by heather. Here it will rear and fledge its chicks before making the 3000 mile trip back to West Africa. The best way to spot these inconspicuous birds is to listen carefully for the ‘churring’ call of the male. Make sure your eyes are peeled and your torch is at the ready, as when the churring stops, the male begins to patrol. As he patrols he claps his wings together in an attempt to defend his territory, providing you with the best opportunity to witness this bird and its fascinating territorial displays.</p>
<h3>The nightingale's call</h3>
<p>As dusk sets in bird calls can be heard all around, and once most other birds have retreated for the night, the nightingale takes the centre stage with its powerful and potent melody. The call of the male has inspired writers for centuries and has been described as one of the most beautiful songs nature has to offer. Whistles, trills and gurgles can be heard as they aim to defend territory and attract a mate. Much like the nightjar the nightingale is a ground nesting migrant that winters in West Africa, moving to the UK in the summer months where it can be largely found in Southern and Middle England.</p>
<p>RSPB Pulborough Brooks plays host to a large number of nightingales during this period, a species which has seen a 50% decline in the last 25 years, meaning the RSPB’s work in protecting these wonderful birds is even more important than ever.</p>
<h3>Open to the public</h3>
<p>These and many other nocturnal creatures can be a sight to behold and between 23 May and 20 June, staff at Pulborough Brooks will be inviting the public to descend onto the heathlands and explore after dark in search for this magnificent creatures. We would be delighted to see you ‘After Dark’ – to join one of the events, please contact us on the details below.</p>
<h3>Time and Dates</h3>
<p>Fri 29 May: 8.30pm – 10.30pm</p>
<p>Sat 20 June: 8.30pm – 10.30pm</p>
<h3>Nearest Caravan Club sites</h3>
<ul>
<li>Littlehampton</li>
<li>Northbrook (Worthing)</li>
</ul>
<p>Both sites are approximately 25 minutes away from Pulborough.</p>
<h3>Contact the RSPB</h3>
<p><a title="The RSPB website" href="http://www.rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks" target="_blank">www.rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks</a></p>
<p>Direct Dial - <strong>01798 875 851</strong></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2015 11:51:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/go-explore/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/go-explore/</link><title>Go explore</title><description><p>To celebrate the long standing success of the network, from May to September, Sustrans are hosting lots of special community walks and rides on the network to inspire people to get out and explore their local surroundings.</p>
<p>Led by Sustrans volunteers, the rides will be suitable for a range of ages and abilities and will cover a variety of stunning locations, often passing through National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.</p>
<h3>June Events</h3>
<p><strong>South</strong></p>
<p><a title="Exe Estuary night ride" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events/exe-estuary-night-ride" target="_blank">Exe Estuary night ride</a></p>
<p>6 June | 7pm | 7.45pm | South West</p>
<p>"The ride is at dusk and at night and takes you along the beautiful Exe Estuary. Includes barbecue, music and fireworks"</p>
<p><strong>Stay at:</strong> <a href="/link/80565e88f9814aac96915124c176a930.aspx">Exeter Racecourse Caravan Club site</a></p>
<p><a title="NCN 20th anniversary led ride and party" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events/national-cycle-network-20th-anniversary-led-ride-and-party-oxford" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">NCN 20th anniversary led ride and party</span></a></p>
<p>20 June | 3.30pm | South East</p>
<p>"Rides are along flat, National Cycle Network routes. Tea and birthday cake provided at party. All routes are generally free of hills."</p>
<p><strong>Stay at:</strong> <a href="/link/90b244f0266f43798373ad2088b600ac.aspx">Bladon Chains Caravan Club site</a></p>
<p><strong>Midlands</strong></p>
<p><a title="Redditch led bike ride" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events/redditch-led-bike-ride-3" target="_blank">Redditch led bike ride</a></p>
<p>13 June | 9.45am | West Midlands</p>
<p>"Ride around the quieter roads and cycle paths of Redditch at a leisurely pace along this easy route including a café break part way along."</p>
<p><strong>Stay at:</strong> <a href="/link/6537d60d2cb0444c9a5f4013086414b7.aspx">Chapel Lane Caravan Club site</a></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">North West</span></strong></p>
<p><a title="Four day Morecambe Bay Cycle Way ride" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events/four-day-morecambe-bay-cycle-way-ride" target="_blank">Four day Morecambe Bay Cycle Way ride</a></p>
<p>11 June - 14 June | North West</p>
<p>"Take time to stop to drink in the awesome views, sample mouthwatering food and see the Bay’s history and heritage come alive."</p>
<p><strong>Stay at:</strong> <a href="/link/0afe30eeade2445289e67eee5b66bd54.aspx">Meathop Fell Caravan Club site</a></p>
<p><a title="Bay Cycle Way ride" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events/bay-cycle-way-ride-barrow-furness-ulverston" target="_blank">Bay Cycle Way ride</a></p>
<p>11 June | 10am-5pm | North West</p>
<p>"Aimed at those new to touring and long distance cycling and will be at a leisurely pace, taking the pace of the slowest rider."</p>
<p><strong>Stay at:</strong> <a href="/link/0afe30eeade2445289e67eee5b66bd54.aspx">Meathop Fell Caravan Club site</a></p>
<p><strong>Yorkshire</strong></p>
<p><a title="York Rally led ride - evening" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events/york-rally-led-ride-0" target="_blank">York Rally led ride - evening</a></p>
<p>19 June | 7.20pm | Yorkshire</p>
<p>"An evening pub ride to Riccall along the Solar System Greenway, lasting approximately two and a half hours."</p>
<p><strong>Stay at:</strong> <a href="/link/3e5000b13b8a46c8af4f98bee4b5ae74.aspx">York Rowntree Park Caravan Club site</a></p>
<p><a title="York Rally led ride - morning" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events/york-rally-led-rides" target="_blank">York Rally led ride - morning</a></p>
<p>20 June | 9.30am | 10am | 11am | Yorkshire</p>
<p>"A short city centre ride for discovering more of York's history, a family friendly ride and a slightly longer, largely off-road ride."</p>
<p><strong>Stay at:</strong> <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">York Rowntree Park Caravan Club site</a></p>
<p><a title="York Rally led ride - morning" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events/york-rally-led-rides" target="_blank">York Rally led ride - morning</a></p>
<p>21 June | 11.15am | Yorkshire</p>
<p>"Ride out to York University’s Sports Village for the opportunity to watch racing at the velodrome and possibly have a go yourself."</p>
<p><strong>Stay at:</strong> <a href="/link/3e5000b13b8a46c8af4f98bee4b5ae74.aspx">York Rowntree Park Caravan Club site</a></p>
<p>To find out what else is on and for more information about the walks and rides happening near you go to: <a title="Sustrans website" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/events" target="_blank">www.sustrans.org.uk/events</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2015 11:34:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/get-back-in-the-saddle-this-summer/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/get-back-in-the-saddle-this-summer/</link><title>Get back in the saddle this summer</title><description><p>I know starting up a new activity is sometimes daunting, even getting back in the saddle when you haven't ridden for a while can give you the butterflies. To help you settle those pre-ride nerves, I've come up with some advice to help you overcome the things that may be making you anxious about getting back in the saddle this summer...</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Feeling unfit or nervous about your cycling ability?</strong><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Be sure to <a title="Top sites for cycling" href="/link/26589f32457e4ed499509e36bce61d34.aspx">choose a route</a> classed as easy - short to start with, then build up your confidence. You'll be surprised how quickly your confidence and fitness increases.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><strong>Concerned about traffic and road safety?</strong><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Do what you can to ensure you can be seen, with luminous or reflective strips on clothing or backpacks. Make sure you wear a helmet and ride with confidence.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Use <a title="The Highway Code website" href="https://www.gov.uk/rules-for-cyclists-59-to-82" target="_blank">hand signals</a> and make eye contact with drivers to give them warning of manoeuvres.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">If you really hate the idea of mixing with traffic, check out the <a title="National Cycle Network website" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/ncn/map/themed-routes/routes-families/traffic-free-family-rides" target="_blank">National Cycle Network traffic free routes</a>.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><strong>Fearing that saddle sore feeling?</strong><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Invest in a gel seat or a pair of cycling shorts with padding – they really do make a lot of difference.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><strong>Worried about how confident you are about mending a puncture?</strong><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Thankfully, punctures don’t happen often, but when they do they are easy to fix yourself. Reduce the risk of a puncture by ensuring your tyres are always fully inflated. For advice on fixing a puncture visit <a title="Visit the Sustrans website" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/change-your-travel/get-cycling/bicycle-maintenance-made-easy/puncture-repair" target="_blank">Sustrans bike maintenance</a> pages.</span></span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">&nbsp;</span></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2015 11:19:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/on-ya-bike-london-to-brighton-2015/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/on-ya-bike-london-to-brighton-2015/</link><title>On ya bike! London to Brighton 2015</title><description><p>They’ll be joining around 28,000 other riders to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.</p>
<p>The <a title="London to Brighton" href="https://www.bhf.org.uk/L2B" target="_blank">ride</a>, now in its 40th year, starts bright and early at Clapham Common and takes in some great sites close by. The course meanders down country lanes and over the majestic South Downs before soaring to a victorious finish at Madeira Drive, around midday, not far from the <a href="/link/7dadd9e1cf584bf58e8a38e579f4f8b4.aspx">Brighton Caravan Club site</a>.</p>
<p>For those thinking about a last minute break to the coast this June, why not book a stay at Brighton Caravan Club Site? You can come and join us at the finish line or Ditchling Beacon to cheer our triumphant cyclists on!</p>
<p>If you are already booked in at <a href="/link/7dadd9e1cf584bf58e8a38e579f4f8b4.aspx">Brighton</a> this season, be sure to check out the other great attractions the town has to offer. Take in the splendour of <a title="Brighton’s Royal Pavilion" href="http://brightonmuseums.org.uk/royalpavilion/" target="_blank">Brighton’s Royal Pavilion</a>, soak up the sun at the marina or browse the many interesting shops buried in the Lanes.</p>
<p>Cycling is a great way to get outside and enjoy the summer, if you’re feeling inspired to set out on two wheels; we have lots of great suggested routes. We’ve partnered with <a title="Sustrans" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/" target="_blank">Sustrans</a>, to design 35 routes that start at Club sites and take in the best and most beautiful parts of the UK. Find out more about our routes and download a cycling route map today.</p>
<h3>Donate to the British Heart Foundation</h3>
<p>If you aren’t able to join us but would still like to support the charity, we have set up a <a title="Donate with Just Giving" href="https://www.justgiving.com/teams/caravanclubteampage" target="_blank">JustGiving page</a> where you can donate to help the British Heart Foundation continue to carry out ground-breaking research.</p></description><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2015 13:45:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/top-tips-for-cycling-with-young-children/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/top-tips-for-cycling-with-young-children/</link><title>Top tips for cycling with young children</title><description><p>You don’t need to wait until your kids are old enough to ride themselves to start enjoying the benefits of cycling as a family. Apart from a child bike seat or trailer, the most important things you need are a bike, the right clothes and a few basic tools. Sustrans have some great tips for cycling with a young family.</p>
<h2>Get the right bike</h2>
<p>If you need to buy a bike for cycling with young children, there are a few things to consider:</p>
<ul>
<li>Weight - remember your toddler will add an extra couple of stone to the bike so choose a light model</li>
<li>Comfort - forget fashion, choose comfort first</li>
<li>Type of bike - you may need to consider that a fully suspended mountain bike would not accommodate a rear-mounted child seat and indeed a road bike would mean you can't use a centre-mounted bicycle child carrier, for example</li>
<li>Setting up your bike - your local bike shop can help with frame size, handle bar position and seat adjustment to make sure you get the most from your pedal power without straining your body.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Be prepared!</h2>
<p>If you already own a bike, check it's roadworthy before heading out with your little one on board. Make sure:</p>
<ul>
<li>the tyres are pumped up with plenty of tread</li>
<li>the brake pads are in good condition and aren't rubbing against the tyres, and;</li>
<li>the chain isn't rusty or broken.</li>
<li>You have reflectors on the front and back, a bell, and a front and rear light if you intend to cycle in the dark.</li>
<li>You take sun screen for you and your child.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Clothing and accessories</h2>
<ul>
<li>Make sure you’re comfortable with what you’re wearing</li>
<li>All your toddler really needs is a good-fitting cycling helmet and a lightweight, waterproof all-in-one.</li>
<li>A sturdy back pack or pannier to carry equipment is useful. Take a good lock too - whatever the value of your bike, you don’t want to lose it.</li>
<li>A pump, puncture repair kit and some bike oil for your chain will be very useful.</li>
</ul>
<h2>On the day</h2>
<ul>
<li>Check the route beforehand; plan some options for short cuts just in case. Club cycling routes clearly indicate if there are hilly stretches, busy roads, difficult junctions, which are best avoided with young children.</li>
<li>Let the slowest cyclist set the pace.</li>
<li>Make it interesting; plan plenty of refreshment breaks - little and often is better than one long break half-way. For younger kids, have a few games, like I-spy, up your sleeve to play along the way and stop at a playground or park, especially one with a café or ice-cream van!</li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Keep children warm. If they're sitting still they won't be generating heat like the person doing the pedalling. Even on a fine day, take some extra layers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Take snacks and drinks to keep their energy and spirit levels up.</span></li>
</ul>
<p>For more cycling advice, plus exciting cycling events read our tips and ideas or more information on family cycling, visit the <a title="Sustrans website" href="http://www.sustrans.org.uk/change-your-travel/children-and-families/cycling-kids" target="_blank">Sustrans</a> website.</p></description><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2015 13:31:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/bogus-email-under-control/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/bogus-email-under-control/</link><title>Bogus email under control</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The ‘phishing’ scam sent many thousands of people an email with the subject header ‘Travel Order Confirmation’ and an attachment.</span></p>
<p>Having established that the email had not come from The Club’s servers or IT systems, we were able to advise callers and visitors to our website not to open the attachment and to simply delete the email, which seemed as if it came from our <a title="Original news article" href="/link/eb817ea6d2fc4705a63ec82096422289.aspx">Overseas Travel service</a>.</p>
<p>This left us with an email address that had gone global! The result was 1.5 million non-deliverable emails slowing down our email systems and making it very difficult to find and respond to genuine emails from overseas travel customers. Our IT team have spent all of the bank holiday weekend dealing with this and are now confident they have the situation under control.</p>
<p>What remains unknown is how many genuine customers may have added all emails from The Club to their spam filters, meaning we can’t communicate with them as we would usually do.</p>
<h2>How to ensure you still receive important Club emails</h2>
<p>Because of the nature and volume of the bogus messages, some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and mail software packages will move caravanclub.co.uk messages into spam or junk folders. Please <strong>check these folders</strong> if you are expecting a message or confirmation – once convinced that it is genuine, the act of moving it into your inbox is usually enough to stop future emails being moved to spam, although we will be working with the ISPs to resolve it at their level too.</p>
<h2>How to tell the diffence between a scam/ phishing email from a genuine Club confirmation</h2>
<p>All documents sent out by the Club are in a PDF (Acrobat) format, and any confirmations will always be addressed to you by name. Scam and phishing e-mails tend to be .doc attachments and have 'Dear Customer' or a similar generic greeting.</p>
<p>Our apologies for any inconvenience caused – we were sadly one of a number of organisations targeted in this way and are committed to responding immediately to this type of technology threat.</p></description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2015 13:54:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/bogus-email-alert/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/bogus-email-alert/</link><title>Bogus email alert</title><description><h2>Update posted Thursday 21 May 2015 6pm</h2>
<p>If you have received an email today from overseastravel@caravanclub.co.uk titled <strong>'Travel Order Confirmation 0300202959'</strong> and have opened an attachment from it, you may have a virus (or Trojan) on your computer which may attempt to 'phish' for your personal details.</p>
<p>This email has not come from The Club's servers or IT systems but we would like to offer the following advice: if you have opened an attachment such as this, please download and run a free virus checker from the website <a title="Malware website" href="http://www.malwarebytes.org" target="_blank">www.malwarebytes.org</a> or use your own anti-virus software.</p>
<h2>Update posted Thursday 21 May 2015 5pm</h2>
<p>We have been alerted today about an email appearing to be from The Caravan Club with the subject header Travel Order Confirmation 0300202959 suggesting that it comes from the address overseastravel@caravanclub.co.uk.</p>
<p>This email is NOT from The Club and the attachment may contain a virus. Please do not open this email, please DELETE immediately.</p>
<p>In order not to risk any potential virus impacting your computer/handheld device we recommend that you delete any emails you’re not expecting from us.</p>
<p>We have temporarily disabled our email inbox overseastravel@caravanclub.co.uk whilst we are looking into this.</p>
<p>We are sorry for any confusion this email has caused. Please rest assured that your booked overseas travel plans, if you have made any through us are not affected.</p>
<p>We are urgently looking into this matter and will provide further advice as soon as we have had it verified.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2015 14:06:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/important-notice-to-caravan-club-credit-card-account-holders/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/important-notice-to-caravan-club-credit-card-account-holders/</link><title>Important notice to Caravan Club credit card account holders</title><description><ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">In order to redeem the vouchers on site you will need to present The Caravan Club credit card used to acquire the points which have been converted into vouchers. It would also be helpful to bring along the letter which accompanies the vouchers from Barclaycard as proof of ownership.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">No more than 5 vouchers will be accepted per visit.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">These changes have been implemented to standardise procedures across the sites network.</span></p>
<p>Read more about the <a title="Credit card" href="/link/cf7147db116e411e8b41cee558be3d50.aspx">credit card</a> and its benefits.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2015 14:22:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravan-club-leisure-survey/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/caravan-club-leisure-survey/</link><title>Caravan Club Leisure Survey</title><description><p><strong>Updated 2 July 2015</strong></p>
<p>From 13 May to early June, we emailed an invitation to all of our members, encouraging them to take part in a major leisure vehicle survey. If you have not yet submitted your feedback, you have until <strong>12 July</strong>. We have had some fantastic responses so far. We are especially keen to hear from owners of the following brands, to ensure we get big enough numbers to report back on (though every extra reply is valuable and welcomed!):</p>
<p><strong>Caravans</strong>: Airstream, Dethleffs, Gobur, Knaus, Dandy, Freedom, Carlight, Fendt, Vanroyce, Cristall</p>
<p><strong>Motorhomes</strong>: McLouis, Mazda, Carthago, Autohomes, Eura Mobil, Rimor, Timberland, Laika, Marquis (Swift), Westfalia, Geist</p>
<h2>Tell the industry what you think - good and bad</h2>
<p>This will be your opportunity to give manufacturers your feedback on your caravan, motorhome, trailer tent or whatever you own, whether bought new or used which will in turn help them understand your viewpoints so that they can develop and improve.</p>
<p>This survey is open to any current Club member and non-members registered with Club Together.</p>
<p>Plus, by submitting your survey, you'll be automatically entered into a <strong>prize draw</strong> with £1500 of prizes up for grabs as a thank you for participating (1x£500, 2x£250 and 5x£100 Gift Cards – winners will be able to choose from M&amp;S, halfords, Sainsburys, Blacks, B+Q or Boots).</p>
<h2>Research and results</h2>
<p>We have teamed up with Verve, an experienced research agency that conducts the annual '<strong>Which? Cars Survey</strong>'. They will ensure that all feedback is entirely confidential. We will then share your collective feedback with manufacturers on your behalf.</p>
<p>The more members who take part, the greater the number and range of makes and models we will be able to report on. Plus, this will provide you with really reliable and trustworthy information when selecting which caravan or motorhome to buy in the future. After all, no-one knows caravans, motorhomes and other leisure vehicles better than you.</p>
<h2>How do I get involved?</h2>
<p>You should have received an email invitation to take part in the survey by now. If you cannot find the invite in your email inbox, please check your 'junk' or 'spam' folder for an email from 'noreply@ccleisurevehiclesurvey.co.uk'. If the email is lost of has been accidentally deleted, please email <a title="Email The Club" href="mailto:viv.harrison@caravanclub.co.uk" target="_blank">viv.harrison@caravanclub.co.uk</a>, giving your name and membership number and your invite will be re-sent to you.</p>
<p>If you do have any hiccups with the survey, please contact <a title="Any problems completely the survey, please email us" href="mailto:help@ccleisurevehiclesurvey.co.uk" target="_blank">help@ccleisurevehiclesurvey.co.uk</a> and the team at Verve (our research agency) will be happy to help.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:52:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/february-magazine-walk-correction/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/february-magazine-walk-correction/</link><title>February magazine walk correction</title><description><p>The directions for this route included a section in the grounds of the Bridlington Links Golf &amp; Leisure Estate. The golf club has been in contact to ask that this section of the route is amended on safety grounds, as it takes walkers too close to golfers and flying golf balls.</p>
<p>So, if you are planning to follow this trail while enjoying a stay at Bridlington Club Site, please follow the new route shown here (these replace the original directions 1 to 4).</p>
<h2>New directions</h2>
<p><strong>A)</strong> At the end of the drive, turn left and then right to cross the road to the golf club entrance. Keep to this tarmac road until you have passed the golf club car park (on your left).</p>
<p><strong>B)</strong> With the club house on your left, turn sharp right, ignoring the grass track and follow the tarmac road and continue along this road with the green driving range building on your right - Don not take the tarmac road leading you past the club house or go along the grass track.</p>
<p><strong>C)</strong> Just before the log cabins (at the green box) turn left and follow the track (with the walled garden on your tight).</p>
<p><strong>D)</strong> At the 'T' junction where this track meets another similar track, turn left and after approx 30m, turn right up a slight mound onto a narrow path leading you through the woods. Do not continue along the main path at this point.</p>
<p><strong>E)</strong> At the end of the woods, you will meet another footpath where you can either turn left and continue to the Club's walk or turn right and head towards Sewerby and Bridlington.</p>
<p>If you intend to continue on the Club's magazine article route, from point E, follow the public footpath across the golf course (parallel to the cliff top) and join the walk instructions from the Club magazine article 'Point 5'.</p>
<p class="button-orange"><a title="Revised walk PDF" href="~/link/ad69fa2a72cb4b0f8df1e7cd3ccae321.aspx" target="_blank">Print revised route</a></p></description><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2015 15:48:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-orchards-holiday-park-hat-trick-of-new-awards/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-orchards-holiday-park-hat-trick-of-new-awards/</link><title>The Orchards Holiday Park hat trick of new awards</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Firstly they have been presented with an award for their exceptionally high standard toilets with the </span><strong style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Loo of the Year Platinum Award for 2015</strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">. Staff were thrilled to then hear that secondly The AA awarded them the "Regional Campsite of the Year, South East for 2015”.</span></p>
<p>The Orchards then thirdly stole the top spot in the Practical Caravan/ Practical Motorhome Top 100 sites awards and Best Holiday Caravan (statics) which are voted for by the readers of the magazines.</p>
<p>If you weren't already suitably impressed, the site had already been given their <strong>18th gold award from David Bellamy</strong> and a <strong>certificate of excellence from TripAdvisor</strong>.</p>
<p>The Isle of Wight is a treasure trove of beautiful beaches, exciting festivals, historic buildings and numerous sports and past times and should not be missed.</p>
<p>Come and see why The Orchards has racked up so many awards and <a href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">book your stay today</a>.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2015 16:01:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/exit-checks/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/exit-checks/</link><title>UK ports ‘Exit Checks’ will start from April 2015</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">This means that the passports or national identity cards of each individual traveller will have to be checked by the ferry or tunnel operator prior to departure and the data passed to the UK government. This is similar to the current process at UK airports for International flight departures.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">How this affects you</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">EUROTUNNEL</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">Eurotunnel are asking all customers to pre-register their details in advance of arriving at Folkestone in order to speed up their check in process. The Club, like other travel agents, cannot collect the passport details at time of booking as we are not equipped to handle this sensitive data with a secure link to Eurotunnel systems.</span></p>
<p>Customers, including Caravan Club members will need to call the Eurotunnel Contact Centre on 0330 1233207 to register their details.</p>
<p>FERRY COMPANIES</p>
<p>Data will be collected at port when checking in. The ferry companies will simply scan the passports or national identity cards during the normal check-in process at port. This will undoubtedly increase the time it takes to process each vehicle at check-in but this will be minimised if travellers are prepared and have their documents ready to hand over.</p>
<p>We recommend that members sailing to Dover should arrive in plenty of time, particularly at busy periods as there may be lengthy queues as a result of this new process.</p>
<p>Other ports shouldn't see such an impact because of their less frequent sailing times.</p>
<p>When approaching the ferry check-in area, please have your passports or national identity cards to hand.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2015 14:17:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/club-shop-now-selling-the-national-evening-show-tickets/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/club-shop-now-selling-the-national-evening-show-tickets/</link><title>Club shop now selling the National evening show tickets</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">You can now secure evening entertainment tickets by purchasing them from Club Shop.</span></p>
<p class="button-orange"><a href="/link/c84deb26466e49429cd9bcb2bfb9fe49.aspx">Buy tickets</a></p>
<p>Enjoy music from The Magic of the <strong>Bee Gees</strong>, Beyond the Barricade, singing well known <strong>West End</strong> songs, a <strong>Buddy Holly</strong> tribute act featuring the '<strong>Everly Brothers</strong>' and special guest star Jess Conrad, and 'A Great Night Out', a toe tapping, jitterbug inducing, <strong>swing band</strong> that will take you straight back to the vintage era.</p>
<p>The National is a Club Event held each May bank holiday at a stately home. We welcome both members and non-members to come and stay for the whole weekend or just for the day or the evening to sample the entertainment available for both the young and the old alike.</p>
<p>Each evening we lay on fantastic entertainment. Tickets for these were traditionally bookable when a pitch at the rally. Now they are available to buy from our online shop so in just a few clicks, you can secure your seat at the show!</p>
<p class="button-orange"><a href="/link/c84deb26466e49429cd9bcb2bfb9fe49.aspx">Buy tickets</a></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2015 16:06:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/hurn-lane-remains-open-for-the-burnham-on-sea-carnival/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/hurn-lane-remains-open-for-the-burnham-on-sea-carnival/</link><title>Hurn Lane remains open for the Burnham on Sea Carnival</title><description><p>Hundreds of floats pass down the streets of this Somerset seaside town, entertaining the crowds with music, colourful costume and exciting special effects which bring the whole thing to life.</p>
<p>This year's event takes place this year on Monday 9 November with a spectacular seafront firework display set to kick off the festivities on Sunday 8 November.</p>
<p>Members who wish to come and see this fantastic spectacle are welcome to stay at <a href="/link/3f7fd5e7f9564e66812670b5accf1725.aspx">Hurn Lane Caravan Club site</a>. The site, which originally was due to close for the winter on 2 November, will keep its doors open another week for anyone who'd like to visit and stay somewhere close to the action.</p>
<h3>Book your pitch at Hurn Lane today</h3>
<p class="button-orange"><a href="/link/51eccd41a001432e9879c41ac683b565.aspx">Book online</a></p></description><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2015 16:17:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/club-members-to-join-club-council-as-nominated-members/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/club-members-to-join-club-council-as-nominated-members/</link><title>Nominated Members on Club Council - applications welcomed</title><description><p>Club Council has a role in shaping the direction of The Club by being the body that conveys the views of members to The Club’s Executive Committee. It currently meets twice each year, usually on a Saturday in May and October, the latter being on the same day as The Club’s Annual General Meeting.</p>
<p>Applicants should be active Club members, preferably of at least five years’ standing, who possess the breadth of skills and experience required by an organisation that turns over in excess of £100m per annum across a range of different products and services. Those skills may be in property, law, finance, insurance, travel or perhaps even as the owner of a Certificated Location. We are looking for those who may have had experience at Board and/or Committee level, are adept at understanding business cases, analysing data and are able to put forward views that are representative of the breadth of Club membership in a well-considered and coherent manner.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Further details about The Club and its structures can be found under the ‘<a title="About The Club" href="/link/1246fb9b816c40e6b98a7692860facab.aspx">About Us</a>’ section on the website.</p>
<p>If you would like to be considered, please apply by submitting your CV and a covering letter by 23 March to The Club’s Executive Secretary at:</p>
<p><a title="Email The Club's Executive Secretary" href="mailto:executivesecretary@caravanclub.co.uk" target="_blank">executivesecretary@caravanclub.co.uk</a> Selection of successful applicants is likely to be held in East Grinstead during the week beginning 13 April.</p>
<p>The next meetings of Club Council are on 9 May and 24 October 2015. The appointment is unpaid, but expenses are covered.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2015 16:22:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/longleat-wins-park-of-the-year/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/longleat-wins-park-of-the-year/</link><title>Longleat wins park of the year 2014</title><description><p>The online news provider held a reader poll in December last year and <a href="/link/d61bbeaf1eab49e4b5a2602e3667ca97.aspx">The Club’s Wiltshire site</a> emerged with 17% of the vote, and another Caravan Club site, <a href="/link/cc17850b722248cfbfdb3364aff64019.aspx">York Beechwood Grange</a>, finished third.</p>
<p>The winning park is one of the network's most unique locations - where else can you hear lions roaring at night from the comfort of your 'van? Plus, the area's renowned Safari &amp; Adventure Park is literally on the doorstep of the site! Caravan Club Members can enjoy great savings on tickets to the Safari Park. Take a look at our <a href="/link/93e4c1d419764ff796b9c7346e04eb91.aspx">special offers</a> page for more information.</p>
<h2>Start your adventure...</h2>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Begin your next holiday adventure with a break at this award-winning park!</span></p>
<p class="button-green"><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/d61bbeaf1eab49e4b5a2602e3667ca97.aspx">Book a break</a></span></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2015 16:30:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/update-on-site-redevelopments/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/update-on-site-redevelopments/</link><title>Update on site redevelopments</title><description><p>Scheduled improvements to sites this year are progressing well, and some have even been completed ahead of schedule. Check out the latest news on site redevelopments below.</p>
<h3>Work progressing well</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="/link/7dadd9e1cf584bf58e8a38e579f4f8b4.aspx">Brighton</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="/link/f22b2c3dada04835ace2d5cd96d0c53f.aspx">Wyatts Covert</a>&nbsp;- work on site is ongoing ahead of its completion in April</li>
<li><a href="/link/ccfbb9265eca4971b9878660a40c5298.aspx">Chester Fairoaks&nbsp;</a>- The strip out of the toilet block is now complete and the internals of the toilet block are being refurbished</li>
<li><a href="/link/c82c580516e64da795b805c7d7a94abc.aspx">Exmoor House</a>&nbsp;- Progress is being made on the groundworks for the conversion of grass pitches to hardstandings</li>
<li><a href="/link/f5b69a303de0495893a865000dbc1a96.aspx">Seacroft</a>&nbsp;- The majority of the groundworks on the new pitching area are now complete</li>
<li><a href="/link/f0ecdf9addb345e191efcf4fcd0bb2ff.aspx">Southport&nbsp;</a>- Work is progressing on site to the pitching and toilet block</li>
<li><a href="/link/7fc67512e1714e4087e84f2583be9ebc.aspx">Wirral Country Park</a>&nbsp;- The new hardstanding pitches are now in and work on the reception block is ongoing</li>
</ul>
<h3>Almost at the finish line</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="/link/e9d85e4211d74c209cbc80b9b87524b6.aspx">Exebridge Lakeside</a>&nbsp;- The finishing touches on the redevelopment work are being done</li>
<li><a href="/link/ae68f5cc6afc42f2b434bd8d60114838.aspx">Gowerton</a>&nbsp;- Work on site is about two weeks away from completion</li>
<li><a href="/link/fbc6d6c6a55a4440b26c5c2a485dc511.aspx">Start Bay&nbsp;</a>- Finishing touches to some turfing on the newly converted pitches are being made</li>
</ul>
<h3>Completed sites</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="/link/3e5000b13b8a46c8af4f98bee4b5ae74.aspx">York Rowntree Park</a>&nbsp;- We're delighted to announce that the redevelopment works have been completed earlier than expected</li>
<li><a href="/link/ee01e4802f88487d9094609a93a4e8a8.aspx">The Firs</a>&nbsp;- The site underwent a complete relaunch this winter based on member feedback</li>
</ul>
<h3>More information on site improvements...</h3>
<p>For more details and a full list of <a title="Latest site redevelopments" href="/link/658626ee75a54c519382cb30f651875b.aspx">site redevelopments</a>, take a look at our latest redevelopments page.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2015 16:37:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/new-pitches-at-seacroft-now-available-to-book/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/new-pitches-at-seacroft-now-available-to-book/</link><title>New pitches at Seacroft now available to book</title><description><p>A new motorhome waste point has also been added within the new pitching area.</p>
<p>The new pitches are now available to book, for stays between now and 4 January 2016!</p>
<h3>Book a break at Seacroft</h3>
<p>Refurbished to a high standard with 111 pitches and in a great location, <a href="/link/f5b69a303de0495893a865000dbc1a96.aspx">Seacroft Caravan Club site</a> is a fantastic holiday getaway for the family. The caravan park has the added bonus of a leisure complex which includes a bar, restaurant and outdoor heated swimming pool.</p>
<p class="button-green"><a href="/link/f5b69a303de0495893a865000dbc1a96.aspx">Book this site</a></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2015 16:50:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/min-y-don-wins-loo-of-the-year-award/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/min-y-don-wins-loo-of-the-year-award/</link><title>Min y Don wins Loo of the Year Award</title><description><p><a href="/link/54256f1d36be4b78bd9db84bbc0a689d.aspx">Min-y-Don Caravan Club site</a> at Harlech won the national category and market sector awards for holiday parks across the UK. In addition the park retained the highest platinum grading at the presentation ceremony in Solihull.</p>
<p>This affiliated site, which has 100 touring caravan and motorhome pitches, nestles below Harlech Castle, alongside the famous Royal St David’s Golf Club and just a short walk from one of the best beaches in Wales. Most of the pitches have views of either the castle or Mount Snowdon.</p>
<p>The touring pitches have recently been extended and they now all have hardstanding to help caravanners and motorhome owners in wet weather.</p>
<p>A £2 million redevelopment of the park in 2008 included a superb toilet block, which has five star toilets, wash hand basins, showers, full disabled facilities, laundry and dishwashing room, together with private bathrooms.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2015 09:37:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/recycling-at-the-caravan-club/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/recycling-at-the-caravan-club/</link><title>90 percent of Club waste recycled in 2014</title><description><p>Figures from January to November last year (from The Club’s waste service provider, GPT) show that a total of 3,760 tonnes of rubbish were produced across the network, of which 90.5% was recycled. About 0.5% was converted into energy, while 9% was sent to landfill. Club sites in the Middle England region were arguably the most efficient, recycling over 93% of 723 tonnes of waste. The Southern, South-Eastern, Northern and Scotland regions also recorded figures of more than 90%.</p>
<p>While these figures are certainly impressive, The Club would like to improve on them even further – please look out for appropriate recycling bins on all Club sites.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2015 09:29:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/wooda-welcomes-bessie-the-vintage-caravan/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/wooda-welcomes-bessie-the-vintage-caravan/</link><title>Wooda welcomes Bessie the vintage caravan</title><description><p>Fully restored into her vintage glory, a holiday in Bessie is one that has to be experienced. For some she will re-create fond childhood memories, and for others it will be a totally unique experience.</p>
<p>From the vintage china and beautiful bedding to the original fridge, stove and picnic table and chairs, Bessie is packed full of unique 'vintage' touches.</p>
<h3>Book a break in Bessie</h3>
<p>Perfectly suited to two people - whether it is a romantic retreat, walking the coast path, or simply a bolthole to get away from the stresses of modern day life, Bessie is the perfect choice for your holiday. Short breaks (Friday – Monday) start from £200. Full information can be found on Wooda’s website.</p>
<p class="button-green"><a title="Book a break in Bessie" href="http://www.wooda.co.uk/vintage-caravan" target="_blank">Book vintage caravan</a></p>
<p>The pictures below showcase Bessie's beautifully styled interior...</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/imagevault/publishedmedia/66f12i4v2xewzgk1yq7c/Bessie-3.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/imagevault/publishedmedia/j8feujw7vm6ahh569oy9/Bessie-4.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/imagevault/publishedmedia/z99ys48wamkqp8071bgt/Bessie-2.jpg" /></p></description><pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2015 09:53:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/harbury-fields-launch-online-booking-system/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/harbury-fields-launch-online-booking-system/</link><title>Harbury Fields launch online booking system</title><description><p>For more information and to book your pitch, please visit the <a title="Book a pitch" href="http://www.harburyfields.co.uk/booking-2/" target="_blank">Harbury Fields website</a>.</p>
<h2>Explore Shakespeare Country at Harbury Fields</h2>
<p>Just a few miles east of Warwick and set in unspoilt countryside, this quiet, family-run caravan park is ideally placed to enjoy the local places of interest, such as Warwick Castle, in a region known as Shakespeare Country.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The site will be re-opening in February for the 2015 touring season, so book your pitch today!</span></p>
<p class="button-green"><a title="We are pleased to announce that Harbury Fields Farm Touring Park (AS) has recently launched an online booking system." href="http://www.harburyfields.co.uk/booking-2/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Book your pitch</span></a></p></description><pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2014 10:13:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/booking-for-spring-summer-2015/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/booking-for-spring-summer-2015/</link><title>Booking for Spring/ Summer 2015</title><description><p>An incredible 52,382 bookings were made on the day by 15,597 members, using our new Easy Book system. Prompted by straightforward questions such as ‘Where do you want to go?’, ‘Where are you going?’ and ‘Who is going?’, members were able to make their reservations within a few clicks, whether they were using mobile phones, tablets or PCs.</p>
<p>We hope members enjoyed booking in this way and that they will continue to use Easy Book throughout the year.</p>
<p>There were a couple of issues on the day. Firstly, we are sorry that members were unable to reserve pitches at our Hillhead or Seacroft sites on 3 December – this is not because they were fully booked but because we have special Christmas and New Year arrangements at these sites. More information will follow. Secondly, there were a few ‘login’ issues early on but these were quickly resolved by our technical team – sorry for any inconvenience caused.</p>
<h2>Facts and figures:</h2>
<p>50% of all bookings were made between 9am and 10am - 24,148 via Easy Book and 1,726 via our Contact Centre</p>
<ul>
<li>The average number of bookings per member was 3.4</li>
<li>The average length of holiday booked was 5.5 nights</li>
<li>The majority of bookings were for three nights (10,151), and 6,413 were for 7 nights</li>
<li>A total of 287,275 nights were booked from a possible 3.3 million. That means there’s still plenty of availability across the sites network!</li>
<li>Only 25 sites were completely full for one or more nights during 2015.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Our top ten selling sites were:</h2>
<p>York Rowntree Park – 4,602 bookings (84 nights sold out)<br />Chatsworth Park – 3,169 bookings (16 nights sold out)<br />Southport – 1,737 bookings (7 nights sold out)<br />Baltic Wharf 1,511 bookings (79 nights sold out)<br />Castleton – 1,327 bookings<br />Clumber Park - 1090 bookings<br />Black Knowl - 1030 bookings<br />Knaresborough – 1001 bookings (8 nights sold out)<br />Hawes - 939 bookings<br />Bridlington – 839 bookings (9 nights sold out)<br />Moreton in Marsh – 737 bookings</p></description><pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2014 10:19:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/new-sites-directory-on-its-way/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/new-sites-directory-on-its-way/</link><title>New Sites Directory on its way</title><description><p>This essential guide to Club sites, CLs and commercial sites is the perfect tool for planning your breaks.</p>
<p>It also includes information on touring abroad and special member benefits as well as a Technical Information section covering everything from gas and electricity matters to coupling and outfit matching.</p>
<h2>Improvements</h2>
<p><strong>Following member feedback, we’ve made some changes:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>We now provide more information about television reception.</li>
<li>Symbols on site details pages indicate whether a site is peaceful or family-friendly and whether there are any special offers available.</li>
<li>Certificated Location entries will again be accompanied by compass bearings and distances from listing towns.</li>
<li>We’ve toned down the colours on the site location map to make Club sites easier to spot.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Sponsored by SsangYong</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The Sites Directory &amp; Handbook 2015/2016 is sponsored by SsangYong Motor Company.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;<img alt="" src="/imagevault/publishedmedia/qnxiphy0ggr91of4uj4q/Ssangyong.jpg" /></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 21 Nov 2014 10:24:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-caravan-club-goes-surfing/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/the-caravan-club-goes-surfing/</link><title>The Caravan Club goes surfing</title><description><p>The Caravan Club is delighted to announce it is supporting one of the UK’s highest profile national surfing events during the weekend 8 and 9 November at the world-famous Fistral Beach in Newquay, Cornwall.</p>
<p>The event is organised by Surfing Great Britain and is their most prestigious event of the year. It will feature a competition for Juniors, Open competition for veterans, Masters, Seniors, Open, Womens and Pro Junior Divisions.</p>
<p>Tony Hall, Marketing Director for The Caravan Club, says, “Supporting the UK highest profile surfing event is a great way of connecting with those audiences that share our passion for the great outdoors.</p>
<p>"Whilst we know that surfers of all abilities are no strangers to the benefits of caravanning and motorhomes, a Caravan Club site can provide something far more than just a place to stay near some of their favourite beaches – safe, affordable, flexible accommodation with high-standard facilities, and importantly, a warm welcome from our site staff.”</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 07 Nov 2014 10:31:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/city-to-country-life-art-project-interview-with-the-artists/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/city-to-country-life-art-project-interview-with-the-artists/</link><title>City to Country Life Art Project - interview with the artists</title><description><h3>What inspires you to create your artwork?</h3>
<p><strong>Darren:</strong>&nbsp;Living in a city like London, surrounded by talented peers, there's a constant drive to create and that inspires me most of all. I have a wealth of other inspirations as well, including early 1930s' cartoons, skateboard graphics and contemporary art.</p>
<p><strong>David/Badbones:</strong> I’m inspired by many different things - comic books, pop culture, other artists, a lot of pop art stuff. The team I’m around inspires me every day too. Graffiti Life as a collective is really competitive within itself and we’re always learning new ideas from each other, so that’s quite a big influence as well.</p>
<p><strong>Rosie:</strong> Generally, I just love painting in all its forms, be it spray-painting, oil-painting or acrylics. I really enjoy the sense of achievement you get when you’ve created a piece that’s just come from an idea or a thought you’ve had. It ends up being this physical project, which is often totally different to what you originally had in mind. I think that’s exciting.</p>
<h3>What makes a client interesting for you to work with?</h3>
<p><strong>Darren:</strong> When working with clients, I like to have the freedom to express and explore my own visual language and ideas. Rather than having a pre-made design to use, I prefer to let my ideas flow through the work.</p>
<p><strong>David/Badbones:</strong> I think a good client is someone who is open to our suggestions. It’s really nice to have a brief with a little bit of leeway, so you can fire your thoughts back, rather than something that's rigid, with no room for artistic interpretation. I like clients who have really wacky ideas as well. I always say to people: 'Whatever you think of, we can do it, so try to think of something completely bizarre.' Those are the best kinds of projects to work on.</p>
<p><strong>Rosie:</strong> I think it’s really interesting when clients have a strong idea about what they would like to communicate, but are brave enough to trust you as an artist and let you put your personality into the piece.</p>
<h3>Tell us about the strangest request you’ve ever had on a project</h3>
<p><strong>Darren:</strong> Actually, it’s kind of funny. I think I’ll answer that with ‘the elements’: the weather, the rain. Usually the strangest requests are to finish in weather conditions that aren’t quite appropriate to work in!</p>
<p><strong>David/Badbones:</strong> We’ve had lots of strange requests. I've painted onto whisky barrels, cars, even livestock – that was a weird one, painting onto cows. Cows get very nervous when you’re around them and they start pooing everywhere, so we were wearing full suits and wellies to put stencils on their sides. That was quite an adventure. We’ve had lots of weird projects over the years, but that’s the best thing about our job – we get to do something new every day and work with different people and really interesting ideas.</p>
<p><strong>Rosie:</strong> I recently worked on a project where we created a giant castle out of cardboard boxes. We painted all the boxes like pixels and put these into different formations to create the castle. It was about 200 boxes, so it was quite a long day, but it looked great at the end. We even made a throne inside as well.</p>
<h3>Have you ever been on a caravanning holiday?</h3>
<p><strong>Darren:</strong> Indeed I have, as a youngster with my family. My memories aren't that clear, but I imagine a lot of kites, a lot of Frisbee and general fun in the sun, in fields away from city life.</p>
<p><strong>David/Badbones:</strong> I haven’t, actually, and the cool thing about this project is learning a little bit more about caravanning as an option. I did stay in a caravan on a project in Norway last year, but I have never travelled around with one. That would be really fun. I've never painted one either, but I’ve always wanted to, so this is great to work on.</p>
<p><strong>Rosie:</strong> Yes, I have. It wasn’t exactly a caravan, it was a camper van, but I spent three weeks driving around New Zealand.</p>
<h3>What has been your inspiration behind the design concept for this project?</h3>
<p><strong>Darren:</strong> Well, I’m still working on it, but the theme behind it is going to be ‘beautifying spaces in an attempt to get away from the city and enjoy nature as it’s been intended for us.’</p>
<p><strong>David/Badbones:</strong> It’s been cool because the three of us come at what we do with very diverse styles. We’ve all been arguing with each other, putting in different ideas. I think what comes out at the end is going to be amazing. I’m not going to reveal too much now, but it’s been an exciting process to reflect our own individual styles while working on one core piece together. Wait and see!</p>
<p><strong>Rosie:</strong> There is still a little way to go, but I believe it’s going to be a twist between city life and life in the outdoors.</p>
<h3>Find out more about the project</h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Introduction to the project" href="/link/cfcc68ba32954a2d8c24f5b5ef125a40.aspx">Introduction to City to Country Life Art Project</a></li>
<li><a title="About the artists" href="/link/938dd9b98e184ec197deb09b24123bcb.aspx">The artists</a></li>
</ul></description><pubDate>Mon, 03 Nov 2014 08:38:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/city-to-country-life-art-project-meet-the-artists/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/city-to-country-life-art-project-meet-the-artists/</link><title>City to Country Life Art Project - the artists</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The artistic team have previously worked with the likes of Google, BBC, ITV as well as working on “team building” projects and “community ventures” such as rejuvenating disused community areas.</span></p>
<p>We had the pleasure of speaking with some of the artists that we worked with on our nature art project.</p>
<h2>Rosie</h2>
<p><strong>Years painting:</strong> 9</p>
<p><strong>Style:</strong> My paintings tend to tread the fine line between abstraction and figuration, juxtaposing organic structures and geometric patterns. Having experimented with paint for as long as I can remember, I am now honing my spray-painting skills and enjoying creating works on a large scale, with speed I didn’t know was possible. Though based in London, through my painting I’ve been lucky enough to travel to Berlin, Milan and Norway.</p>
<p><strong>Favourite things:</strong> Green and Black's organic dark chocolate ice cream, running, snowboarding, London.</p>
<h2>David/Badbones</h2>
<p><strong>Years painting:</strong> 12</p>
<p><strong>Style:</strong> I started painting in Brighton around 2000. I took a lot of inspiration from the graffiti artists in the area and developed a bright, cartoony style. I started painting walls all over London a few years later and began to mix more realistic elements into my street art. Nowadays, I like to work with realism, typography, graphic design and random cartoon elements. I’ve been on TV a bunch of times and travelled the world with my art, painting in New York, Paris, Milan, Rome, Belgium, Amsterdam and Canada.</p>
<p><strong>Favourite things:</strong> Sneaker collection, iPod, sketchbook, Coco Pops, sleep.</p>
<h2>Darren</h2>
<p><strong>Years painting:</strong> 10</p>
<p><strong>Style:</strong> Much of my work spans multiple creative disciplines and promotes off-kilter, character-driven concepts that combine a playful approach to colour with an inquisitive eye for composition. Think Fruitella funk with a twist of cheeky satire and dark humour in equal measure.</p>
<p><strong>Favourite things:</strong> Exploring abandoned spaces, skateboarding, 1930s' animation, chorizo.</p>
<h2>Joe Epstein</h2>
<p><strong>Producer, LDNGraffiti / Director, LDN Digital Design Ltd.</strong></p>
<p>Born in London, Joe has over 25 years’ experience working as a digital designer and art director for many diverse clients and brands. Joe has also been passionately documenting the lifespan of some of London’s most original street art and graffiti for over 7 years. Joe has contributed to exhibitions in the UK, developed the Banksy London Tour iPhone app, published a book and Joe's website LDNGraffiti is an ongoing photographic documentary of Graffiti and Street Art in London, giving an insight into the creative output lost and found in and around the capital.</p>
<p>More can be found at LDNGraffiti.co.uk and on Twitter @LDNGraffiti.</p>
<h2>Find out more about the project</h2>
<ul>
<li><a title="Introduction to the project" href="/link/cfcc68ba32954a2d8c24f5b5ef125a40.aspx">Introduction to City to Country Life Art Project</a></li>
<li><a title="Interviews with the artists" href="/link/581a3714292a427c8edf896f7d5e640e.aspx">Interviews with the artists</a></li>
</ul></description><pubDate>Fri, 31 Oct 2014 14:12:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/city-to-country-life-art-project/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/city-to-country-life-art-project/</link><title>City to Country Life Art Project</title><description><p>Artists from the creative group <a title="Graffiti Life website" href="http://graffitilife.co.uk/" target="_blank">Graffiti Life</a> have teamed up with The Caravan Club to recreate a “city and country life” theme, converting the caravan’s “blank canvas” exterior into a visual masterpiece.</p>
<p>Caravanning is a passport to many new adventures and gives us freedom to explore the great outdoors with our friends and family. Our nature art project will celebrate the exciting connection between caravanning and nature with visual messages, which will be captured in a time-lapse video.</p>
<p>Taking to the open road means different things to different people and each Caravan Club member's experience is unique, be it a walking holiday, cycling holiday or just getting in touch with nature away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. It is like a home away from home, and joining The Club gives you the freedom to explore our wide network of sites across the country.</p>
<p>Fashion Textiles graduate Daisy Hopwood customised her caravan as a way of paying tribute to her family’s traditions. "There is an essence of escape when we trek across England in our lovely little trailers, to live in this compact home away from home."</p>
<p><img alt="" src="/imagevault/publishedmedia/gr9rfgtoxfhy1n7w7ph9/finished-van-credited.jpg" /></p>
<p>Inspired by an old trunk of photos from 1937 to the present day, Daisy’s caravan celebrates her grandmother’s life.</p>
<p>“I’m telling a story through print that transcends the years from her to me. Using old photographs with digital print will incorporate both eras to create a collection of prototypes which are inspired by our family tradition of caravanning.”</p>
<p>This example shows how the younger generation perceive their experience of caravanning, which will also be reflected in our nature art project.</p>
<p>The Club’s involvement in this project will highlight the beauty of rural and urban life in an unprecedented way. It will take place on 1 November 2014 at Studio 4, Hoxton Street Studios, and 10A Blossom St in London’s Shoreditch (E1), one of the capital’s most creative hubs.</p>
<h3>Capturing nature</h3>
<p>Three artists will work individually on the caravan, displaying their range of artistic techniques, which will then magically merge to display the full, final effect.</p>
<p>No moment will be wasted, as a film crew will be on hand to capture every detail of the artists’ skill. The recording will be transformed into a “creative time-lapse film”, to be shown on the Caravan Club website for all to enjoy.</p>
<h3>Find out more about the project</h3>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a title="Meet the artists" href="/link/938dd9b98e184ec197deb09b24123bcb.aspx">City to Country Life Art Project - the artists</a></span></li>
<li><a title="Interviews with the artists" href="/link/581a3714292a427c8edf896f7d5e640e.aspx">Interviews with the artists</a></li>
</ul></description><pubDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2014 11:54:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/making-site-bookings-easy/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/making-site-bookings-easy/</link><title>Making site bookings easy</title><description><p>Club site pitches for March to December 2015 can be booked from 9am on 3 December - so it’s time to start planning your getaways.</p>
<p>Members will be automatically directed to our Easy Book service which has been designed to make pitch reservations as quick - and easy - as possible! (You will not be able to book using the traditional ‘search by location and date’ method on 3 December).</p>
<h3>Benefits of Easy Book</h3>
<ul>
<li>mobile and tablet friendly</li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">upfront pricing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">interactive calendar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">auto-filled with your saved details</span></li>
</ul>
<h3>Special offers</h3>
<p>The Club will continue to offer a selection of special offers during 2015, including <a title="Midweek discount" href="/link/3e8a5b472016489d86dccf8d16130671.aspx">Midweek discount</a> and <a title="Kids discounts" href="/link/366530263844468db362cfa80ca1a279.aspx">Kids for a penny</a>. Look out for more news in the December issue of the magazine.</p>
<h3>What to expect on 3 December</h3>
<p>We have made some improvements to the system in time for our spring/ summer bookings launch day. Firstly, we have increased the ‘My Profile’ session time to give you longer to make a booking before being timed out.</p>
<p>Secondly, users will be able to see a 10-minute countdown clock on the booking form so they can view how much time is available during their slot (we have to limit time spent actually making a booking to be fair to all users and keep the system running smoothly). It is a good idea to have a list of your preferred sites (plus alternatives in case of need) and dates to hand.</p>
<h3>Top tips for making your bookings</h3>
<ul>
<li>you can sign in to ‘My Profile’ from 7am</li>
<li>bookings can be made from 9am on Wednesday 3 December</li>
<li>on the day, a simplified home page will be visible from 7am giving you the option to sign in, book a UK site (from 9am) or browse the website</li>
<li>you can only make one booking at a time. When you have made a reservation, you will be taken back to the home page where you can start to make another booking as soon as a slot becomes available</li>
<li>once a booking has been made, a confirmation email will follow within 24 hours. Your booking will appear immediately in ‘My Profile’.</li>
</ul>
<p>Check out our <a title="Magazine article" href="~/link/04903afcbf0543458593a5367d9e1f18.aspx">magazine article</a> for more hints &amp; tips.</p>
<h3>Winter bookings open!</h3>
<p>You can already book sites that are open between 4 January and 26 March 2015 (see <a title="Open all year sites" href="/link/071eec4197af4912a578798eba32383c.aspx">open all year</a> sites for a full list) - so you don’t need to wait until 3 December if you’re planning to go away over this period.</p>
<h3>Easy Book, quick and simple...</h3>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">From Club Together:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">"Good to see that it's compatible with the iPhone"</span></p>
<p>"Particularly liked the pre-filled details and predictive search"<br /><br /></p></description><pubDate>Tue, 28 Oct 2014 13:41:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/grass-or-hardstanding/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/grass-or-hardstanding/</link><title>Grass or hardstanding?</title><description><h3>Choose your preferred pitch type</h3>
<p>For the 2015 season, we are launching a trial at five sites, during which members will be able to choose&nbsp;grass or hardstanding pitches.</p>
<p>Members can select their pitch surface at the sites below when the spring/summer 2015 season goes on sale on 3 December:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/link/32d4a16abd60489fb5bb6d2f09d4498f.aspx">Battle Normanhurst Court Caravan Club site</a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/d4016e714e70498d8d7212e4931dbec1.aspx">Hunter’s Moon Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/7b34db259f6147aa9039ef477366eae5.aspx">Malvern Hills Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/d3bb7771fe794ab2a2410f022f10ec8c.aspx">Ramslade Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/85db67fbba3b4d1ba2114e6af4f327b4.aspx">Sutton-on-Sea Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
</ul>
<h3>What will change?</h3>
<p>The way in which you book your stay, whether online, through our Contact Centre or directly through the site, will remain the same.</p>
<p>If you book online, you will still see a calendar of dates that shows availability by pitch type - the only difference is that you will be able to pre-select the surface type that you prefer.</p>
<p>Upon arrival, actual pitch location will continue to be on a first-come, first-served basis (bearing in mind pitch types). Rest assured that regardless of which standard pitch you decide upon, you will pay the same price (supplements will still apply to serviced and super pitches).</p>
<p>This trial has come about as a result of member feedback - we hope that you find it a useful addition to our service.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2014 13:57:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/future-of-baltic-wharf-site/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/future-of-baltic-wharf-site/</link><title>Future of Baltic Wharf</title><description><p>Together with Bristol City Council we have released the following joint statement to help clarify the booking situation for 2015.</p>
<h3>Latest update</h3>
<p>As a result of support received from Bristol City Council, it has been confirmed that The Club will remain at Baltic Wharf Club Site until the end of August 2015. Pitches have been released with immediate effect for arrivals between 4 January - 26 March 2015. Dates beyond 26 March 2015 will be released for sale on Wednesday 3 December in line with all other sites.</p>
<p>If there are any further updates or changes to this, we will let you know through the website and via Club Together.</p>
<h3>Book a pitch at Baltic Wharf</h3>
<p>Baltic Wharf Caravan Club site is a waterside haven, located right in the heart of Bristol's beautifully re-developed dockland. With plenty of nearby entertainment and attractions, including Bristol Zoo, it's also ideal for families</p>
<p class="button-green"><a href="/link/f9adbb6e75624d6d927c6c7dd70b1493.aspx">Check availability</a></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2014 14:03:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/upgrade-to-club-systems/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/upgrade-to-club-systems/</link><title>Upgrade to Club systems</title><description><p>Unfortunately some areas of the site will be temporarily unavailable whilst we carry out the upgrade and sometimes it will be necessary for the site to be made completely unavailable.</p>
<p>This is part of a large and complex IT web hosting program to improve the reliability and security of the website and other online Club services.</p>
<p>October is the final phase of this work; please see dates below.</p>
<p><strong>Friday 10 October overnight 10pm - 8.30am</strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Saturday 11 October overnight 8pm - 8.30am</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The website will be completely unavailable during these times. We apologise for the disruption that we know this will cause and thank you for your patience whilst we carry out the upgrade.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Advanced warning of specific interruptions will be posted on the website <a title="Homepage" href="/link/9a415302b17340e7b5107dc458a06a6f.aspx">homepage</a></span></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2014 14:08:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/more-pitches-at-new-forest-club-site/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/more-pitches-at-new-forest-club-site/</link><title>More pitches at New Forest Club site</title><description><p>The site is situated on a World War 2 airport and the new area offers 24 new pitches, located on the old runway. The new pitching area has been named 'Mosquito', after the plane which commonly flew out of the airport during the war.</p>
<h3>Book a New Forest break...</h3>
<p>The New Forest site is set in beautiful countryside and is home to The Club's celebratory Centenary Gardens. With its unique location, it's the perfect destination for anyone interested in war history.</p>
<p class="button-green"><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/dc338c4da69a4fda9296e9a75ea57044.aspx">Check availability</a></span></p></description><pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2014 14:11:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/calorlite-gas-bottle-product-recall/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/calorlite-gas-bottle-product-recall/</link><title>Calorlite gas bottle product recall</title><description><p>Calor have advised that all cylinders must be returned to a local CalorLite stockist immediately. They also add that upon return you will be issued with a free of charge replacement 6kg CalorLite cylinder.</p>
<p>According to Calor, this recall (first time Calor has issued a cylinder recall in 79 years) is precautionary and no reports of leakage or explosions have been made.</p>
<p>For more information about which cylinders are included in the recall and for further help &amp; advice, please visit the <a title="Calor website" href="http://www.calor.co.uk/recall?awc=5176_1411135522_0e5da563ba9c2aadaf0c14ba3dfba8e5" target="_blank">Calor website</a>.</p>
<p>You can also read more and share your views about the CalorLite recall on the recent discussion on Club Together, our online community.</p></description><pubDate>Fri, 26 Sep 2014 14:15:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/perfect-playdays/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/perfect-playdays/</link><title>Perfect playdays</title><description><p>Sites where the playday events took place included:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/link/d573d234850d456daf08ee8aced78697.aspx">Clumber Park Caravan Club site</a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/623d0c9a07234501b30b850e5f3183f7.aspx">Daleacres Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/42268f59f8924695a7062689c488878b.aspx">Ferry Meadows Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/d61bbeaf1eab49e4b5a2602e3667ca97.aspx">Longleat Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/e2639f17a9754124b3217ab507359a53.aspx">Merrose Farm Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/cb3697dd8e764d788c108d16718512ec.aspx">Moreton-in-Marsh Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/dc338c4da69a4fda9296e9a75ea57044.aspx">New Forest Caravan Club Centenary site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/daa27f91dd1c47da9c540c318dd78c6c.aspx">Penrhos Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/e3aee68c1e404e64acd59d8b4b4ab51f.aspx">Scarborough West Ayton Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/cc17850b722248cfbfdb3364aff64019.aspx">York Beechwood Grange Caravan Club site</a></span></li>
</ul>
<p>Wardens arranged numerous activities including arts and crafts, fling a welly, treasure hunts, races and quizzes. East Grinstead staff member Chris Hinton, who attended the Daleacres event, said wardens had put in a supreme effort. "The wardens gave out prizes for winners of the competitions and organised for every child to go home with a goodie bag which was a really nice touch", he said.</p>
<p>We would like to thank everyone who came along to support and enjoy the events, the site staff and volunteers.</p>
<h3>Family holidays</h3>
<p>For more ideas on how to keep the kids entertained during your next touring break, check out our <a title="Family holidays" href="/link/241c09c5a00748428bc7712403bcbeb6.aspx">family holidays</a> area of the website.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2014 14:44:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/balbirnie-park-attractions/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/balbirnie-park-attractions/</link><title>Explore Balbirnie Park's nearby attractions</title><description><h3>Modes of transport to help you explore</h3>
<p>There is a train station around 10-15 minutes walk through the village where you can hop on an hourly train into Edinburgh, a town bursting with character as well as Perth and Dundee who also have tons of things to do and see. There is also a bus stop right outside the site that goes to Glenrothes and Leven, from there you can go onto Edinburgh, Dundee, as well as St Andrews, Glasgow and many more places.</p>
<h3>Eating, shopping and watching</h3>
<p>There are some lovely places to go out and eat in the area including the Balbirnie House Hotel and Bistro, Laurel Bank Hotel and a couple of cosy coffee shops in Markinch.</p>
<p>Glenrothes is the nearest town to the site with plenty of supermarkets and places to get fuel. Fife holds Farmers Markets every Saturday morning, rotating between Cupar, Dunfermline, Kirkaldy and St Andrews, and there are also many places to buy fresh and local produce. The large shopping complex, Kingdom Shopping Centre is also home to <a title="Rothes Halls website" href="http://www.onfife.com/venues/rothes-halls" target="_blank">Rothes Halls</a>, a theatre boasting a varied programme of top name concerts, drama, events, exhibitions and childrens entertainment.</p>
<h3>Fun activities for all ages</h3>
<p>Kirkcaldy hosts one of the largest outdoor activity venues in the area - Cluny Activity Centre is just outside Kirkcaldy and has facilities for golf, clay pigeon shooting, archery as well as an outdoor play area for children.</p>
<p>One of the most popular tourist attractions in Fife is the <a title="Secret Bunker website" href="http://www.secretbunker.co.uk/" target="_blank">Secret Bunker</a>, a great day out, whatever the weather. The inconspicuous farmhouse in the middle of nowhere holds so many secrets underground and is a fantastic day out. You could even take a balloon flight from Falkland Golf Course.</p>
<h3>A spot of modern Royal Family</h3>
<p>One of the places that most people like to visit from the site is St Andrews, easily accessible from the bus stop. St Andrews is a beautiful town and has a great deal of history. There are botanical gardens with around 8000 species of various plant life to be found. There are also two fantastic beaches, The West Sands and The East Sands. Both are beautiful in sunny weather and both have free parking available. St Andrews is perhaps most famous for where Prince William met Kate Middleton and fell in love.</p>
<h3>Cycling, walking and being at one with nature</h3>
<p>There is plenty of great cycling around Fife, including the 105 mile Kingdom Cycle Route from Inverkeithing around Fife to the Forth Road bridge. Cycle routes are available at reception for a small charge.</p>
<p>Walking in Fife is also very popular with a wide range of places to walk, from Balbirnie Park next door, to the coastal path and everything in between.</p>
<p><a title="Falkirk Palace website" href="http://www.nts.org.uk/property/falkland-palace-and-garden/" target="_blank">Falkland Palace</a> is the nearest National Trust in Scotland to visit from Balbirnie Park, the gardens are extensive and worth a visit just on their own, but you can also explore Culross Gardens, Hill of Tarvit and Kellie Castle and Gardens in Fife.</p>
<p>The Lomond Hills provide stunning views over Fife and the Firth of Forth. Walks around Birnie Loch, Pitscottie Waterfall, Ayton Woods and Tentsmuir National Nature Reserve all provide beautiful landscapes just waiting to be explored, you may even be lucky enough to see red squirrels around Ladybank Forest.</p>
<h3>Book a break at Balbirnie...</h3>
<p>There's plenty to do in Fife come rain or shine so, why not come and try the site out?</p>
<p class="button-green"><a href="/link/13c77d0f1e9a40c2aca050d5e2674977.aspx">Check availability</a></p></description><pubDate>Thu, 11 Sep 2014 14:53:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/brecon-beacons-storage-pitches/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/brecon-beacons-storage-pitches/</link><title>Brecon Beacons storage pitches</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The new pitches will be available at a cost of £100 for the period 1 August - 27 October 2014.</span></p>
<h3>Book a storage pitch...</h3>
<p>You can find information on how to book one of these pitches on our <a title="Storage facilities" href="/link/aba586ea8c3f41abb65913360e56f321.aspx">storage facilities</a> page.</p>
<h3>Caravan Club storage pitches</h3>
<p>Our storage pitches offer secure accommodation for your caravan, motorhome or trailer tent when it's not in use.</p>
<p class="button-green"><a href="/link/aba586ea8c3f41abb65913360e56f321.aspx">Book a storage pitch</a></p></description><pubDate>Wed, 06 Aug 2014 16:07:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/your-chance-to-win-a-holiday-in-scotland/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/your-chance-to-win-a-holiday-in-scotland/</link><title>Your chance to win a holiday in Scotland</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">To enter you simply need to fill in an online questionnaire if you have stayed on a site in Scotland this year.</span></p>
<p>The survey runs until the middle of September so you have plenty of time to win a holiday. Prizes on offer include two full weeks and four short breaks on a Parkdean Holiday Park.</p>
<h3>Stay on a Scottish Club site</h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The Caravan Club offers a fantastic selection of <a title="Sites in Scotland" href="/link/79be38f9adc94b4b8512e0cd5cf2d5f2.aspx">sites in Scotland</a>. Click below to view our full range of sites.</span></p>
<p class="button-green"><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/79be38f9adc94b4b8512e0cd5cf2d5f2.aspx">Scottish sites</a></span></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 11 Jul 2014 16:13:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/queens-baton-sails-through-strathclyde-country-park/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/queens-baton-sails-through-strathclyde-country-park/</link><title>Queens Baton sails through Strathclyde Country Park</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">The celebrity accepted the baton from Scots runner Tom McKean at Strathclyde Country Park - home of triathlon during the Games. Smillie then sailed the baton across the lochside, ending its journey around North Lanarkshire in style!</span></p>
<h3>Celebrate the Games with us</h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Some of our Scottish Club sites, including&nbsp;<a href="/link/e1353bb779f74cd6ba32abfb94335ee5.aspx">Strathclyde Country Park Caravan Club site</a>, will be celebrating the Games by holding <strong>Commonwealth parties</strong>. If you're staying on one of these sites during the Games, why join in the fun.</span></p></description><pubDate>Tue, 08 Jul 2014 11:16:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/new-forest-strawberry-tea-party/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/new-forest-strawberry-tea-party/</link><title>New Forest Strawberry Tea party</title><description><p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">On Saturday 19 July between 2pm and 5pm, our New Forest Club Site will be getting into the party spirit by hosting a </span><a style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;" title="Breast Cancer website" href="http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/fundraising-events/strawberry-tea#fevent-page-postscript-top-tab-5" target="_blank">Strawberry Tea Party</a><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">. Donations will go towards the Breast Cancer Care charity. There will be a raffle, tombola, cake, and of course some strawberries!</span></p>
<h3>Book your pitch at the New Forest</h3>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Set amidst beautiful countryside, the site has an open aspect, and is home to The Club’s celebratory Centenary Garden with lovely bird life including Song Thrushes and Bullfinches.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;">Book your pitch at the New Forest Caravan Club Centenary site today!</span></p>
<p class="button-green"><span style="font-size: 0.875rem; line-height: 1.125rem;"><a href="/link/dc338c4da69a4fda9296e9a75ea57044.aspx">Check availability</a></span></p></description><pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2014 11:38:00 +0100</pubDate></item><item><guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/stay-alert-and-avoid-scams/</guid><link>https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/whats-on/caravan-club-news/stay-alert-and-avoid-scams/</link><title>Stay alert and avoid scams</title><description><p>The information we have been given is that during (or after) time spent on The Caravan Club website, a separate pop up window displays, masked as The Caravan Club, asking members to fill out a survey and submit their card details for postage. If you are requested to fill out a form for feedback and prompted to fill in your card details, please do not proceed.</p>
<p>This scamming behaviour is not linked with The Caravan Club and is beyond our control to prevent. Please rest assured however, there are ways to protect yourself from scammers.</p>
<h3>How to protect yourself from scammers</h3>
<p>If you see a pop up window asking you to fill in your card details, please ignore it by not proceeding and closing the window. The Club never asks for money or card details when we request feedback.</p>
<p>We recommend that you keep your anti-virus software up to date and scan your PC frequently.</p>
<p>Also be vigilant. Again, we will never ask for money in a survey/feedback form so please close this window if it appears. The Club does not use pop-up survey windows. For site reviews, we send an email inviting our members to write up their experiences and submit their review which is then published on The Club's website. If you encounter any "Club Surveys/feedback requests" that you feel may be suspicious, you can check their legitimacy with Viv Harrison (The Club's Research Manager) on <a title="Email The Club's Research Manager" href="mailto:viv.harrison@caravanclub.co.uk" target="_blank">viv.harrison@caravanclub.co.uk</a> or report it to a member of the Web Contact Team at <a title="Email the Web Contact Team" href="mailto:webcontactteam@caravanclub.co.uk" target="_blank">webcontactteam@caravanclub.co.uk</a>.</p>
<p>Thank you.</p></description><pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2014 11:51:00 +0100</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
